If you’re thinking about keeping a horse, one of the first things you will need to consider is horse wear. Horses require a lot of different equipment over the course of their lifetime, and it is important that we can provide what they need to help them stay as comfortable as possible in every season. Horses tend to be kept mainly outdoors or in stables, and because of this, they sometimes need help with keeping warm. One way to ensure your horse is cosy and protected from the elements is to buy them a rug. There is a range of different horse rugs online that you can choose from, but how do you know which will be the correct fit? Read on for tips on how to choose the correct size rug for your horse.
Things to consider
There are a few things to consider before you start measuring for your new horse rug, such as what you need the rug to do. There are rugs suited for every season from lightweight rugs in the summer to heavy turnout rugs in the winter. You should think about your horse’s age, coat, and living conditions. This will help you to decide which rug is best for your horse’s situation, and then we can start measuring!
Parts of a Horse Rug
Horse rugs and blankets are made up of a few component parts and it is handy to know which is which when you are measuring. Surcingle straps secure the rug around the stomach. The more straps, the more secure. Shoulder gussets help with freer movement and a tail flap which promises full protection from the rain. Hood and neck covers are also an option with horse rugs and can be added to turnout rugs to protect your horse from harsh weather. They are often sold separately to a rug but there is an option to buy a rug with them already attached.
Length
Your horse rug should cover your horse’s body entirely ending just below their elbow and stifle. If your horse rug is too long or has too much material in one area, this can cause gaps and could even mean your horse getting a hoof caught in it. If your horse rug has gaps and is being worn in a field, there is also a chance of it catching on trees and branches.
Withers
When fitting a new horse rug, you should make sure that you can slide one hand in-between the rug and your horse’s withers. This is a good way to make sure that the rug is not too tight on the neck or shoulders and does not cause any kind of restriction or rubbing.
Shoulders
You can make sure your rug is the correct fit by noticing how it hangs on the shoulders and neckline. The top of the rug’s closure should line up with the point of your horse’s shoulders and the neckline should lie smoothly with no signs of pulling.