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FAQ - Horse Rugs

Points to look for when fitting your horses’ rug:

How can I tell if my horse’s rug is too big or too small?

If the turnout or stable rug hangs off the top of the tail the rug is probably too big. If the rug does not reach the top of the tail, the rug is probably too small. If your horse is between sizes you are usually better to go down a size as a horse rug that is too big is actually more likely to cause rubs than one that is too small as it is move likely to move/slip around your horses back.

How should leg straps and surcingles be adjusted?

You should adjust leg straps and surcingles to allow a hand width between leg/belly and the strap. If the leg straps or surcingles are too long and are not adjusted to allow a hand's width, your horse could get his legs caught in the straps. If they are too short, they will be tight and likely to rub.

How should the neck of the rug fit?

It is important to adjust the front straps on the rug to ensure that the top of the rug sits in front of the wither, not behind or it will pull back and may cause rubbing and sores on the shoulders, neck and withers. You should be able to easily get your hand down the front of the rug and it should be mobile enough to sit comfortably on the horses back, withers and shoulders. If the neck of the turnout or stable rug is too big, this may cause the rug to slip around, there is also the danger that your horse may get his foot caught in the hood when rolling or getting up

What is meant is waterproof and breathable in turnout rugs?

As we all know the weather in the UK is at the best of times rather unpredictable! One minute it’s raining heavily, the next its bright sunshine! When developing Swish Turnout Horse Rugs we have only used top quality materials that are 100% waterproof, and also 100% breathable. This is basically the ability of your Rug to protect your horse from whatever the weather may through at it, particularly rain, snow and wind, while at the same time, keeping your horse comfortable by allowing sweat and perspiration to ‘wick’ away and pass through the Rug’s fabric to the outside air. This allows your horse to stay at a comfortable temperature if the weather is constantly changing throughout the day. Waterproof refers to the material used in the production of the rug only, as all rugs contain stitching and fastenings which it is not always possible to tape and make 100% waterproof. We always advise a spare rug be available in case of prolonged extreme weather conditions.

What is the best way to care for my horses’ rugs?

A horses’ rug is like any clothing article and should be hung to dry in a well ventilated, dry area if it is removed when it is still wet or damp. Occasionally, in prolonged and heavy rain, some moisture penetration may occur particularly in the sewn areas of the rug. This is not significant and due to the positioning of the stitching (particularly on seamless rugs) will not affect the rug's performance and is not a fault in any way. Rugs must be totally dry and aired before being stored to avoid any mould or rotting of the stitching. It is often advantageous to reproof your rug once a year if necessary.

How many rugs do I need?

Ideally, you should always have 2 turnout rugs for your horse; these can be different weights as thicker rugs can be layered underneath if necessary for the short term. If your horse is stabled, you will need stable rugs as well are turnouts, and ideally you need a range of thicknesses. If you horse is easily irritated by fly’s in summer in may be a good idea to purchase a fly rug to stop the fly’s from upsetting your horse. If you travel/compete your horse you may also need a cooler and/or fleece rug.

An ideal sample horse wardrobe would be:

Rug Type	Rug Filling	Swish Example	More Info
1 x Lightweight Turnout	From no filling up to 100g. 100% waterproof & breathable		More Swish Lightweight Turnout Rugs Here
1 x Medium Turnout	From approx 150g – 250g. 100% waterproof & breathable		More Swish Medium Turnout Rugs Here
1 x Heavyweight Turnout	Approx 300+ with neck cover for extra protection if needed		More Swish Heavyweight Turnout Rugs Here
1 x Mediumweight Stable Rug	Approx 50g – 200g. It needs a good lining and outer denier.		More Swish Medium Stable Rugs Here
1 x Heavyweight Stable Rug	Approx 200g plus with optional neck cover. Good lining and outer denier.		More Swish Heavyweight Stable Rugs Here
1 x Fleece/Cooler	Good Quality fleece, cotton or high wick materials.		More Swish Summer Travel Rugs Here
1 x Under Rug	Approx 20g – 100g filling.		More Swish Lightweight Stable Rugs Here

This combination will allow you to cover all weather and temperatures with the use of layering if necessary. It also gives you rug options for travelling and cooling your horse down and keeping him warm after exercise.

If you would like any more information about choosing the correct rug for your horse, or any other advice please do not hesitate to contact us on info@swish-equestrian.co.uk we will do our best to help you!

Please note the information above is a guide only - we cannot guarantee accuracy as size and fit of rugs will vary from horse to horse.

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