Heavier rugs are out once summer sets in!
Which summer rug should I use?
Rugging in summer is difficult. You want to protect your horse from insects and prevent sun bleaching – but you also want to ensure your equine friend is cool and comfortable.
In Part 1, we discussed the reasons why many owners choose to rug their horses during the summer months. Here, we take a look at the different types of summer rugs available – so you can make an informed decision for your horse!
1. Fly mesh rugs
A relatively new addition to the market (in comparison to traditional cotton summer rugs), mesh rugs are a great way to prevent sun bleaching and insect bites – while also allowing maximum airflow.
Mesh rugs vary in terms of durability. Some are made from very lightweight, brittle mesh, while others are closer to shade cloth in composition. While lighter generally equates to cooler, it also means reduced durability – if your horse likes to scratch and rub, and is generally tough on rugs, a heavy mesh may be necessary.
Horses with lighter, finer coats are often better with a lighter mesh, as a heavier mesh can be more prone to rubbing.
Mesh rug.
Key points to note:
* They are cooler and promote greater airflow – helping to prevent overheating and alleviating itch
* They help to prevent sun bleaching
* They dry out quickly after rain – while they won’t keep your horse dry, they can still help to prevent rain scald
* They are similar in strength to rip-stop cotton rugs
* Coarse mesh can rub if the rug is ill fitting or the horse has a very fine coat
* Good insect protection – however very small biting insects such as sand flies can often get through the mesh
2. Polycotton rip-stop sheets
The most common summer rug, polycotton rip-stops are suitable for a wide range of uses. Made from a combination of polyester (for strength) and cotton (for breathability), these rugs also incorporate a rip-stop weave.
Polycotton sheets are suited to keeping your horse’s coat sleek, shiny and clean during the warmer months, whilst also preventing sun bleaching.
So how much cotton and how much polyester?
Generally a 70% polyester / 30% cotton blend works well in terms of strength, breathability and cost. More cotton equates to better breathability, however it can also mean the rug is prone to shrinking and it won’t be as strong. More cotton also equates to a higher price.
Some manufactures use 100% polyester fabrics. This may be cheaper, but you’ll find the static electricity is out of control. Unless you and your horse like being zapped each time the rugs comes off, opt for rugs with higher cotton content.
Polycotton rip-stop sheet.
Key points to note:
* Ideal for keeping horses clean and preventing coat bleaching
* Choose polycotton blends, rather than straight polyester
* Rip-stop rugs offer complete block out and are therefore very effective at preventing insect bites – even in the case of small biting insects such as sand flies
*Polycotton fabric is softer on the horse’s coat in comparison to mesh
3. Hybrid rugs
As the name suggests, hybrid rugs combine both mesh and polycotton fabrics. Generally, the structure of the rug is polycotton and mesh inserts are integrated into the neck and skirt.
These rugs offer the best of both worlds – better airflow than straight polycotton, and better insect protection/kinder on the coat than straight mesh.
Hybrid mesh/polycotton rug.
Key points to note:
* Offers the benefits of both rip-stop sheets and mesh rugs
* Good airflow
* Helps to prevent bleaching
* Offers good insect protection, although very small biting insects can get through the mesh sections
* Generally durable
4. Flag rugs
Ideal in very hot climates, flag rugs feature a light, open weave (similar to cheesecloth).
While lighter and more breathable than a polycotton rug, and offering better sun and insect protection than a mesh rug, flag cloth is not very durable.
As such, these rugs are best used in yards and stables rather than out in the paddock – and they are not suited to horses that are tough on their rugs!
Lightweight flag rug.
Key points to note:
* Good breathability
* Great protection from sun bleaching and insects
* Not very durable – not suitable for paddock use or horses that are tough on their rugs
