Choosing The Best Horse Rugs

By Essie Osborn


Equestrian equipment can be very expensive. Many owners are on a budget and need to be careful about what they buy. They are always looking for good quality items at reasonable prices. On of the most popular ways to shop today is to go on line. People can find just about anything they want and also do some comparison shopping to secure the very best deals.

Busy owners may not have as much time as they would like to spend with their animals. Often they have to stop at the barn on the way home to fit in a quick ride. They need to save as much time as possible and having their mount clean and ready to go is essential. Horse rugs really save a tremendous amount of time. Horses love to roll in the mud and although they enjoy this activity it typically leaves them caked in mud.

There are many excellent brands on the market today. Most owners have their favorites that they have been buying for years. These are often the mid range line, that is affordable yet still offer all the best features. Everyone is looking for a rug that is durable, light weight and washable.

When horses are being used in competition they need to be spotlessly clean. Most riders like to bath their horses the day before a show. They will then need a light sheet to prevent them getting dirty again. Horses instinct tells them to roll in the dirt when they are wet. This helps to get them dry and it also feels good. However, it is a disaster for a show horse to roll when they are still damp as all the dirt and dust will stick to their coat.

Horses that live out side all the time will also need at least one winter rug. This should be a high quality one that is both wind and water proof. There is a significant difference between water resistant and water proof. A water resistant rug is really just suitable for showers and cannot be expected to hold up to twenty four hour wear.

The lighter rug is perfect for a horse that comes into the stable at night. They do not need such a high level of protection. Once they come in they are changed into their stable rug, one that is light weight but warm and easy to wash. Throughout the course of the winter the rug will need to be laundered several times. Checking the washing directions prior to purchase is a good idea.

Many people save time by using a light cotton summer sheet under their horses thicker rug. This is much easier to wash and also helps to keep the coat in good condition. The sheet is then used on its own during the warmer months to keep of dust and flies.

A good quality rug will protect the animal in even the worst weather. They also come with detachable hoods that cover the entire neck and really help to keep a horse in show condition throughout the winter. Many riders still like to compete in the winter indoor circuit and need their animals to look good.




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