Types of horse rugs & their properties

The variety of horse rugs is enormous. In the horse rug guide you will find detailed information on horse rug types, fit and accessories. The amount of care required also differs depending on the rug model. Since most horse rugs are equipped with functional features, you should follow the care instructions carefully in order to maintain the special features in the long term.

We explain the special features of the different types of horse rugs with regard to care:

Turnout rugs for horses

Turnout rugs can be divided into unlined turnout rugs and lined winter rugs. In both cases, these rugs are intended for use in the pasture or paddock and are designed to reliably protect the horse from the weather and sometimes also act as a provider of warmth in extreme sub-zero temperatures. This means that the materials are waterproof and windproof, but at the same time must offer maximum breathability. High tear resistance is recommended, especially for horses that are kept in herds.

Horse rugs are usually made of synthetic fibres such as polyester, which develop their wetness protection with the help of functional membranes. The particular challenge in caring for turnout rugs for horses is to avoid damaging the membranes, as they can become stuck or clogged if not cared for properly, allowing rainwater to penetrate inside while also compromising breathability.

While washing too often causes the membranes to deteriorate more quickly, washing too infrequently can also cause the functional properties to be impaired due to the layer of dirt and dust.

To the turnout rugs 

Stable rugs for horses

Stable rugs are designed exclusively for indoor use, i.e. they act mainly as a source of warmth. In addition, they protect the horse from dirt, which is particularly useful before competitions. Stable rugs are also preferred for transport during the winter season.

The smooth outer lining makes stable rugs relatively easy to care for. Bedding does not stick to the material and dirt can be brushed off easily. Washing a stable blanket should be done with a suitable detergent and according to the manufacturer’s washing recommendations. Re-treatment is usually not necessary.

To the stable rugs 

Exercise rugs for horses

Exercise rugs are used before and after training to keep the horse warm and to wick away sweat as quickly as possible after riding. Due to their high breathability and warming function – especially on the sensitive back and kidney area – exercise rugs are also often used as travel rugs or as stable rugs in mild temperatures.

They are usually made of fleece, jersey or microfibre, which are also used as exercise rugs (e.g. riding rugs or horse walker rugs).

Washing rugs made of these materials is simple. Like all functional textiles, fleece does not tolerate fabric softener. A special rug detergent is sufficient. Fleece is very sensitive to mechanical friction, which is why it is important to close the hook-and-loop fasteners carefully before washing and to set a low spin speed.

To the exercise rugs 

Fly & sweet itch rugs for horses

Horses that are sensitive to insect (bites) depend on fly and sweet itch rugs in the summer. Reliable protection against insects is therefore a top priority. At the same time, these rugs must be so breathable and thin that they avoid heat accumulation, which could have life-threatening consequences for the horse.

They are therefore made of light and airy mesh material, which unfortunately is also very susceptible to tears. Dried-on dirt can also make the material brittle, so these rugs should be treated with a soft brush after each use. Fly rugs are best washed by hand. The fasteners usually weigh more than the rest of the rug and could damage the material in the washing machine. With the addition of a special horse rug detergent, the rugs should also be clean again by hand.

To the fly rugs