Another article for our in-depth Horse Rug series
Everything you need to know about summer horse rugs
Summer horse rugs are great for popping on during the day to help protect your horse from pests, and make their life a lot more comfortable!
As you know, summer in Australia brings flies and other flying pests, which can make it a trying time for horses, especially if they’re sensitive or even allergic to them.
Summer Horse Rug Fabrics
Summer horse rugs, also known as summer sheets or lightweight horse blankets, are designed to provide protection and comfort for horses during warm weather while allowing proper airflow.
They are usually made from lightweight and breathable fabrics that have been meticulously chosen to strike a balance between durability, breathability, and insect-repellent properties.
Common types of fabrics used to make summer horse rugs include…
Cotton
Cotton is a popular choice for summer horse rugs due to its breathability and natural moisture-wicking properties. It allows air to circulate freely, helping to keep the horse cool and comfortable.
Cotton sheets are lightweight and can also provide some protection from insects and the sun.
Mesh or Netting
Mesh or netting fabrics are extremely breathable and allow for maximum airflow. They are often used in flysheets, which protect horses from insects while keeping them cool.
Mesh materials are lightweight and durable, making them suitable for summer use.
Polyester
Lightweight polyester fabrics with moisture-wicking properties are commonly used in summer horse rugs. They help transport sweat away from the horse’s body, promoting evaporation and cooling.
Ripstop polyester in particular is known for its durability as it’s engineered to withstand the rigours of outdoor activities and the playfulness of active horses.
Its name, “ripstop,” is indicative of its ability to prevent small tears from developing into larger ones. This rugged quality is especially valuable in a summer horse rug, as it helps extend the life of the rug.
In addition to its durability, ripstop polyester’s tightly woven construction acts as an effective deterrent against insects.
CoolMax
CoolMax is a synthetic fabric that is designed to wick away moisture and keep the horse cool. It is also very soft and comfortable against the horse’s skin.
Nylon
Nylon is a strong and lightweight synthetic material used in summer horse rugs. It offers good moisture-wicking capabilities and dries quickly.
Nylon fabrics can be blended with other materials to enhance their breathability and cooling properties.
Cooling Fabrics
Some horse rug manufacturers offer specialized cooling fabrics designed to regulate body temperature. These fabrics often incorporate advanced moisture-wicking technology, phase-changing materials, or even ceramic-infused fibres that help dissipate heat from the horse’s body.
Bamboo
Bamboo-based fabrics are becoming increasingly popular for summer horse rugs due to their natural breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and eco-friendly nature.
Bamboo fibers have inherent cooling characteristics and can help keep the horse’s skin dry.
Lycra/Spandex
Lycra or spandex blends are sometimes used in lightweight horse rugs, especially those designed for show purposes or to provide a snug fit.
These fabrics offer stretch and comfort, allowing freedom of movement while providing a thin layer of protection.
Microfibre
Microfibre fabrics are soft and lightweight, often used for summer sheets. They are effective at wicking away moisture and can dry quickly, making them suitable for hot weather conditions.
Different types of summer horse rugs
Summer horse rugs come in various styles and designs, each tailored to provide different levels of protection and comfort while allowing proper ventilation and airflow.
Here are some common types of summer horse rugs…
Lightweight sheet
Lightweight sheets are simple and versatile summer rugs designed to provide a thin layer of protection against insects, dust, and the sun. They are usually made from breathable materials like cotton, polyester, or nylon, and are ideal for horses that need minimal coverage.
Mesh or Flysheet
Mesh or flysheets are specifically designed to protect horses from insects such as flies, mosquitoes, and gnats. These rugs are made from fine mesh or netting fabric that provides excellent airflow while keeping bugs away from the horse’s skin.
They’re great for hot weather when insects are most active.
Horse cooler rug
Horse cooler rugs are designed to help manage the horse’s body temperature during hot weather. They often incorporate advanced cooling technologies, such as moisture-wicking fabrics, phase-changing materials, or even the use of ceramic-infused fibers.
These rugs are intended to dissipate heat and keep the horse cooler.
UV horse rug
UV horse rugs are made from fabrics that offer a high level of sun protection, blocking harmful UV rays. These rugs help prevent sunburn and fading of the horse’s coat while allowing air circulation.
They are particularly useful for horses with sensitive skin or light-colored coats.
Lycra horse sheet
Lycra horse sheets or stretch sheets are made from materials like spandex or elastane blended with other fabrics. These sheets provide a snug and stretchy fit, often used as underlayers or for show purposes.
They offer minimal coverage while allowing for freedom of movement.
Hybrid sheet
Hybrid sheets combine different materials or technologies to provide a combination of benefits. For example, a hybrid rug might have a mesh upper portion for airflow and a moisture-wicking lower portion to keep the horse dry.
Turnout sheet
Turnout sheets are versatile rugs that can be used in various weather conditions, including light rain. They offer water-resistant properties and protection against the elements while remaining breathable. However, they are not as heavy-duty as winter turnout blankets.
Silk-feel sheet
Silk-feel sheets are made from lightweight and smooth materials that offer a luxurious touch. They provide minimal coverage and are often used for keeping the horse’s coat clean and shiny during travel or before shows.
Common features of Summer Horse Rugs
When choosing a summer rug, there are a few features to look for:
Breathability: The rug should be made of a breathable material that allows air to circulate freely.
Moisture-wicking: The rug should be made of a moisture-wicking material that helps to keep the horse cool and dry.
Fit: The rug should fit snugly but not too tightly. It should not restrict the horse’s movement.
Ventilation: The rug should have ventilation panels to help keep the horse cool.
Durability: The rug should be made of a durable material that can withstand wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions about Summer Horse Rugs
Are summer horse rugs only for fly protection?
No, apart from fly protection, they also provide a shield against harmful UV rays and sunburn.
Can these rugs be worn at night?
Yes they can but on cooler nights they can prevent the horse from fluffing up its coat to retain body heat.
Do combo rugs restrict movement?
No, combo rugs are designed for free movement while offering comprehensive coverage.
Are synthetic materials comfortable for horses?
Yes, modern synthetics like nylon and polyester prioritise breathability and comfort.
Can I wash these rugs?
Most summer horse rugs are machine washable, but check the care instructions for best results.
How do I choose the right size summer horse rug?
Measure your horse accurately and consult sizing charts provided by manufacturers.
Are these rugs suitable for all horse breeds?
Yes, summer horse rugs cater to various horse breeds and sizes.
Do fly masks obstruct vision?
No, well-designed fly masks offer unobstructed vision while protecting the eyes.
Can I use these rugs in rainy weather?
Summer horse rugs are primarily designed for sunny days and are not waterproof.
How do I maintain the insect-repellent properties of these rugs?
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for washing and care to maintain their effectiveness.
Are all summer horse rugs equally effective against insects?
Not necessarily. The effectiveness depends on the fabric’s density and the style of the rug. Mesh rugs and combo rugs provide better protection due to their design and materials.
Can I leave my horse in a summer rug all day?
While summer rugs are designed for extended wear, it’s essential to monitor your horse for signs of discomfort or overheating, especially during hot periods. If you can’t do this, consider using a mesh rug for its added ventilation properties.
Do I need to supplement rugs with insect repellents?
While rugs offer excellent protection, using insect repellents in conjunction can enhance the overall effectiveness, creating a robust barrier against insects.
Can I wash summer horse rugs?
Absolutely. Most summer rugs are machine washable. Regular cleaning helps maintain their effectiveness and keeps your horse comfortable.
Do these rugs protect against UV rays?
Some summer horse rugs incorporate UV protection, shielding your horse from harmful sun rays. Check the product specifications for this feature.
Are there customisable options for summer horse rugs?
Yes, some manufacturers offer customisation options for fit, fabric, and style. This ensures a tailored solution for your horse’s needs.
Do these rugs restrict my horse’s movement?
The well-designed summer horse rugs allow for comfortable movement, allowing your horse to graze, roll, and roam freely.
Can I use a fly mask instead of a neck cover?
They are 2 different things. A fly mask protects the face whilst a neck cover protects the neck.
Are these rugs suitable for horses with skin allergies?
Yes, many summer horse rugs are designed with hypoallergenic materials that cater to horses with skin sensitivities.
Do all horses need a summer rug?
Not all horses require a summer rug solely for insect protection. Some horses, such as those with a natural resistance to insects or those that spend limited time outdoors, may not need the added insect barrier provided by a summer rug.
However, for most horses, summer rugs offer valuable defense against insects during warm weather.
When should I put a summer rug on my horse?
It’s recommended to put a summer rug on your horse when insects are most active. This is especially important when the temperature rises and insects become more prevalent. If your horse will be exposed to direct sunlight, heat, and insects, a correctly fitted summer rug can be beneficial in providing protection.
How often should I take the summer rug off my horse?
You should consider taking off the summer rug when your horse is not at risk of insect exposure, such as during cooler hours or in environments with minimal insect activity. Additionally, if your horse is sweating heavily or seems uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to remove the rug temporarily.
Remember that the primary purpose of the rug is to provide insect protection, so adjust its use based on insect activity and your horse’s comfort.
Key Takeaways about Summer Horse Rugs
Summer horse rugs play a vital role in safeguarding your horse against insects and maintaining their comfort during warm weather.
While not all horses require a summer rug for insect protection, most can benefit from the added shield against bothersome pests. These rugs are best utilised when insects are most active, offering a barrier that complements your horse’s natural defences.
Remember that the timing of rug application and removal, based on insect activity and your horse’s comfort, can greatly enhance its effectiveness.
By choosing the right rug style, material, and incorporating insect repellents, you can ensure your horse enjoys the outdoors without the discomfort of persistent insects.
