How to choose the right blanket for your horse depending on the season?

That's a good question! It's important to have the right rug, whether it's a stable rug, a waterproof outdoor rug, or a summer fly rug. If the rug fits poorly, your horse risks injury. A rug that's too big can back up and block the withers, cause twisting, or your horse can get its legs tangled in the girths, which can be dangerous. If it's too small, wear will appear on the withers and shoulders. As horse lovers, we all want the well-being of our horses. So here are some tips for buying THE right rug for your horse.

How to calculate the right size?

Taking your horse's measurements before purchasing a rug is an essential step. There have always been several ways to measure your horse, but the most reliable method is to measure from the center of the chest to halfway down the horse's tail (photo 1) by drawing a straight line. The recommended tool for this is a soft tape measure, like those used by seamstresses. You can take the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Generally, rugs are defined in even numbers (e.g. 70/72/74/76…) If your horse's measurement falls on an odd number, please take the next size up. For example, if your horse is 75 inches tall, you should take a 76-inch rug.

How to adjust your coverage properly?

First, before fitting a new blanket, keep the tags and try it on with a thin sheet underneath to see if it fits properly. This way, if the blanket doesn't fit properly, it will stay clean and odor-free.

You must attach and adjust the chest fasteners first. The neck of the rug should never be below the point of the horse's shoulder. Next, adjust the straps that are under the horse's belly. Some rugs have the straps crossed, while others don't. The straps of the rug must be snug. If it's too tight, the horse may not be comfortable, and if it's too loose, your horse's hind legs can get caught between the straps and injure the horse. The trick to getting the length right is to have a stitch between the belly and the straps.

What is the necessary weight or optimal resistance level for your blanket?

Grammage is the weight of the fabric per square meter. This determines the thickness of the blanket and its heating capacity. The higher the number, the warmer the blanket will be.

Denier is the fabric's strength, the quality of the blanket's weave. The higher the number, the more durable the blanket will be. Typically, denier is around 600D, but some blankets can reach as high as 1200D.

What are the types of coverage?

Horse rugs are vital for their comfort and protection. There are stable rugs for comfort in the stall, waterproof rugs for inclement weather, and fly rugs for summer. Exercise rugs are ideal for winter training. Winter rugs, warm and durable, protect horses from the harsh cold. Choosing the right size and type is crucial for your horse's health and well-being.

Winter blankets

An essential piece of equestrian equipment, the turnout rug is chosen based on temperature and weather conditions. For example, in winter, a rug must be both waterproof and insulated to provide optimal protection against the cold and wet. On Chambrière.ca, options include a variety of models, such as the Dark Slate Neck Rug and the Symmetry 600D/300g Winter Rug, offering durability and comfort tailored to winter needs. These rugs are designed to keep horses warm and dry, even in the harshest conditions.

The waterproof cover

Waterproof horse rugs, available at Chambrière.ca, are designed to provide maximum protection against rain and moisture. Options include the PREMIERE 600D Rain Rug, which combines strength and lightweight design to keep your horse dry without weighing it down. These rugs are essential for horses exposed to outdoor weather, ensuring their comfort and health. Choosing the right waterproof rug is crucial to ensuring your horse's protection during rainy or humid months.

The cooling blanket (Cooler)

A horse cooling rug is a key piece of equestrian equipment, used after intense exercise to manage the animal's sweating. This special rug works by absorbing moisture, accelerating the drying process and preventing post-exercise chills. Ideal for maintaining a stable body temperature, a cooling rug is essential for preventing chills in horses after exercise. Available in a variety of designs, it adapts to different needs and climatic conditions, ensuring your horse's comfort and health after exercise.

The summer cover

Summer horse rugs, like those available at Chambrière.ca, offer lightweight, breathable protection, essential during the warmer months. Options include the 600D Summer Rug, perfect for everyday use thanks to its durability. The PREMIERE 600D Rain Rug is ideal for protection against unexpected downpours, while the BAKER Rug combines style and functionality. The CENTURY Softshell model is another quality option, providing comfort and protection without overheating the horse. These rugs are designed to maximize the horse's comfort while protecting it from insects and the sun.

Kidney blankets

An essential equestrian accessory, the exercise rug provides essential protection for your horse's loins during winter training. Designed for cold conditions, the rug provides optimal thermal insulation while perfectly adapting to the shape of the saddle. This specific rug is easy to attach thanks to practical Velcro straps, allowing for a secure and comfortable fit. Using an exercise rug is crucial for maintaining your horse's health and well-being, preventing thermal shock during exercise in cold weather. An ideal accessory for riders concerned about the health of their horses.

The fly blanket

A fly rug is used if the horse has difficulty tolerating flies, insects, horseflies, and mosquitoes. This rug is actually a finely perforated net, which prevents insects from landing directly on the horse's skin. There are neck nets and fly bonnets available for horses to optimize protection. This "honeycomb" rug is not very durable, so it is not recommended for permanent use in the field. Zebra-patterned fly rugs are often seen. This is the most effective against flies and insects.

Cover accessories

Horse rug accessories are essential for maintaining the horse's comfort and safety. Sturdy nylon rings and fasteners ensure rugs stay securely in place. Adjustable and durable rug straps provide a perfect fit and prevent the rug from shifting or twisting. These simple yet effective accessories are essential for ensuring the rug optimally fulfills its protective function, whether in the stable, in the paddock, or during training and rest periods.

Although other styles of horse rugs are available, the most common include summer, winter, waterproof, and cooling rugs, each meeting specific needs depending on the season, climate, and horse's activity. Choosing the right rug, both in terms of type and size, is crucial to ensure your horse's comfort and protection. If you have any questions or need advice, don't hesitate to consult a professional.

And if you're ready to buy the perfect blanket for your horse, explore our diverse, high-quality selection. Find the perfect blanket to meet your horse's specific needs now!