SANCTUARY AND RESCUE

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Fit is all important. Rugs are usually sized in three inch increments. The measurement refers to the distance from the centre of the chest of the horse, around the body of the horse to the rear quarters where you expect the rug to finish. As horses of a given size vary so much in girth and berth, it is essential to take these measurements before purchasing your rug.

A rug will not stay in place if it fits badly and could slip and rub your horse, or even be strained to breaking point.

Horse come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If a horse is exceptionally broad in the back it may be necessary to buy the next size up in relation to his height. Alternatively it may be necessary to look at several different makes or styles.

Put a summer sheet (or something similar) on the horse before putting the rug on - this will keep the rug clean and hair-free so that you can return it if necessary.

There are many different types of rugs on the market manufactured to suit a variety of purposes and with a plethora of terms on the labels. How can you be sure that you are buying a rug suitable for your purpose?

Below is a glossary of terms which should give you an indication of what particular purpose each rug was intended for. If you are ever uncertain ask your sales assistant for help.

New Zealand Rug
An older term usually referring to a canvas rug suitable for horses turned out in the field.

Turnout Rug 
A generic term that can encompass both New Zealand and/or Paddock rugs. Check with the retailer if you are unsure.

Rip-stop
The wrap and weft of the fabric has been modified, enabling it to restrict rips and tears. Usually a manmade toughened fabric, this does not mean that it is impossible to rip. It will not stop barbed wire tears but it should limit the damage caused.

Waterproof or Water Resistant
The outer fabric of the rug has been treated to prevent water passing through that fabric to the horses skin. However, this does not usually include seams, fastenings and stitching so you may need to remove and dry the rug if it is subjected to heavy rain.

Tear-proofing
All rugs should have a breaking point for your horse's safety. It would be dangerous if a rug was so strong that it did not give way when the horse got caught up with or trapped in an obstacle. To protect your horse and the rug you need to ensure that it avoids contact with barbed wire or sharp projections.

Breathable
This refers to the capability to allow sweat and moisture to pass from the horse's skin through to the outside of the rug.

Chest or Breast Straps 
Almost every rug has either one or two of these fastenings across the chest of the horse.

Cross Surcingles 
Straps that cross underneath the belly of the horse and physically hold the rug in position. Rugs using this system do not normally need to be as deep as others.

Leg Straps 
These help to stop the rugs slipping if the horse rolls.

Taped Seams 
A taping method used to cover the seams on the inside of the rug - this provides a barrier to prevent water leaking through. Some modern rugs are seamless which reduces further the risk of leaks.

Polyfill
Measured in grammes - the higher the grammes the more fill there is per square meter and the warmer your horse will be.

Denier
The weight of the yarn in a given area of fabric. Basically, the higher the denier the tougher the fabric.

A GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RUGS