A Simple Guide to Rugging Your Horse this Winter

Winter Rugging: When and How to Keep Your Horse Warm

As the cold weather sets in, it’s time to bring out those winter rugs!

For horse owners, ensuring your horse stays comfortable and warm during these chilly months is a top priority.

However, getting the rugging just right is crucial to avoid overheating or under-rugging.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about winter rugging to keep your horse healthy and comfortable.

Understanding Your Horse's Thermoregulation

Horses naturally regulate their body temperature and don’t feel the cold like humans do.

They can comfortably withstand temperatures between 0°C and 25°C, meaning they are much more resilient to cold than we are.

This is why it’s important to resist the urge to rug your horse based on how you’re feeling.

Horses generate warmth through their internal body temperature, which stays around 38°C, and their thick winter coat helps retain this heat.

You might notice your horse's hair standing on end when it starts to get cold – this is a natural way for them to create an insulating layer of warmth. So before deciding to rug, assess your horse’s needs based on their age, weight, and condition.

How to Tell If Your Horse is Cold or Too Hot

Many people check a horse’s ears to see if they’re cold, but this isn’t always accurate.

A better method is to place your hand inside the rug near the withers. If the area feels cold, it may be time to add an extra layer.

If it feels hot or damp, your horse could be overheating, and you may need to remove or switch to a lighter rug.

Over-rugging can cause your horse to overheat, leading to discomfort and stress, so always monitor their temperature carefully.

Trust your instincts, and when in doubt, check with your vet or an equestrian expert.

When to Start Rugging Your Horse

Rugging decisions should be made based on the weather, your horse’s age, condition, and breed.

Older or thinner horses may need extra warmth, while younger, hardier horses might not require as much protection.

Start rugging when temperatures drop consistently below 10°C, and always assess how your horse is managing.

The Benefits of Using Liners for Winter Rugging

WeatherBeeta’s Liner System is a practical solution for managing your horse’s rugging needs efficiently.

Liners are a great way to reduce tack room clutter and are eco-friendly by extending the lifespan of your rugs.

They also allow for easy layering to adjust your horse’s warmth as temperatures fluctuate.

WeatherBeeta liners are available in Medium/Lite, Medium, and Heavyweights, providing flexibility for different weather conditions.

Use the below guide from Weatherbeeta for advice:

Top Winter Rugs for Horses

Here are some of the top picks for keeping your horse comfortable and protected this winter:

For Premium Winter Rug Picks - try The Weatherbeeta Comfitec Ultra Comfi Detach-A-Neck Medium / Lite Turnout Rug / Teal Blue

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Heavyweight Winter Rugs - try The Weatherbeeta Comfitec Plus Dynamic II Detach-A-Neck Heavy Turnout Rug

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Mediumweight Winter Rugs - try The Weatherbeeta Comfitec Classic Combo Neck Medium Turnout Rug

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Stable Rugs: Keeping Your Horse Cosy Indoors

If your horse spends time indoors during the colder months, a stable rug is essential to keep them warm without overheating. Try The Weatherbeeta Comfitec Channel Quilt II Medium Detach-A-Neck Rug

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Fleece Rugs for Versatility

The WeatherBeeta Fleece Cooler Standard Neck is a breathable and wickable option that works well for cooling your horse after exercise or keeping them warm in the stable.

How to Clean and Store Your Winter Rugs

Proper care for your horse’s rugs ensures they last longer and perform better. Follow these steps to keep your rugs in top condition:

Remove excess dirt before washing.
Hand wash rugs in cold water with non-biological detergent to avoid damaging the waterproof coating.
Air dry your rugs; avoid using a tumble dryer.
Store rugs in a cool, dry place.

Reproofing your rug may be necessary if the water no longer beads off. WeatherBeeta offers rug bags that are perfect for storing and organizing your rugs during the off-season.