Choosing a Lightweight Stable Rug

Choosing a Lightweight Stable Rug

Stable rugs keep horses warm and comfortable whilst they spend time in the stable.lightweight stable rug They can be used to keep a horse cosy in cold temperatures, to replace a light summer sheet in warmer weather and to help protect the coat from sun damage as the seasons change. Stable rugs are available in a wide range of weights to suit all climates and many of them feature a smart, breathable design that allows perspiration to evaporate. Often there are pockets for optional liners to further increase warmth or wicking properties and the choice of a standard neck, combo neck or detachable neck to allow greater versatility.

Most cool weather stable rugs have a padded or quilted synthetic outer and come in a variety of fill weights to provide the correct level of warmth for the conditions.lightweight stable rug Some have a fleece or microfibre lining to add extra warmth and wicking properties, others have lined shoulders to prevent rubbing, whilst some have a full lining to increase the warmth and insulation.

Unlike turnout rugs, stable rugs are designed to be breathable to allow perspiration to evaporate and to keep the horse cooler when they are in the stable. They are also much lighter than turnout rugs as they don’t need to be as durable.

There is a good range of fill levels to choose from, starting at the lightweight 100g and going right up to an incredibly cosy 500g! A light to medium weight is ideal for a fully clipped horse when the weather cools, and a heavyweight can be useful for those at risk of dropping too much weight or fine skinned horses in very cold conditions.

When choosing a rug it is important to measure your horse before you buy, ideally with someone else helping you. This will give you the most accurate measurements and ensure the rug fits properly. The rug should be fitted so that it is snug but not tight and the straps should be adjusted so that there is a hand’s width between the belly of the rug and your horse. Straps that are too long could get caught in the horse’s legs and those that are too tight can cause rub and restriction.

Stable rugs should be washed at 30oC with a non-biological detergent. Always check that the rug is completely dry before putting it back into the stable, as a wet and cold horse can become uncomfortable and even ill. A wet rug is also much heavier to carry around the yard and will be prone to rust when it is left damp over night. It is therefore a good idea to have a spare or two lightweight stable rugs at the ready to switch between when necessary.

Tags:0g turnout rug | 100g stable rug | 100g turnout rug | 50g stable rug