How to Choose the Right Turnout Rug for Your Horse
Choosing a turnout rug can feel overwhelming with so many fill weights and waterproofing levels on the market, it's easy to second-guess yourself. But get it right and your horse stays comfortable, dry, and healthy all season. Here's everything you need to know.
What Is a Turnout Rug?
A turnout rug is a waterproof, durable rug designed to be worn outdoors. Unlike stable rugs, turnout rugs are built to withstand mud, rain, and movement - so the materials and construction matter enormously.
Understanding Rug Fill Weights
Turnout rugs are usually described by their fill weight, which is measured in grams. This gives you an idea of how warm the rug is, but it isn’t the only thing to consider.
Your horse’s breed, coat type, whether they are clipped, their age, condition, workload, access to shelter and how warm or cold they naturally run all make a difference.
As a general guide:
0g / no fill - lightweight turnout
Best for mild, wet days when your horse needs to stay dry but does not need extra warmth. Useful for horses that run warm, unclipped horses, or those who simply need protection from rain.
50g–100g - light fill
A good in-between option when there is a chill in the air, but it is not cold enough for a medium-weight rug. Handy for changeable weather.
150g–250g - medium weight
Often a useful choice for cooler autumn and winter days, especially for clipped horses, older horses, or those who feel the cold.
300g+ - heavyweight
Designed for colder conditions and horses who need more warmth, such as fully clipped horses, older horses, poor doers, or those without much natural insulation.
It is worth remembering that more fill does not automatically mean “better”. Over-rugging can make horses too warm, so the aim is to choose the rug that keeps your horse comfortable - not just the thickest rug available.
Waterproofing: What to Look For
Look for a hydrostatic head rating of at least 1,500mm for reliable waterproofing in UK conditions - 3,000mm+ is ideal for heavy rain. Check that seams are taped or welded, not just stitched, as this is where most rugs fail first.
Getting the Right Fit
A poorly fitting rug causes rubs, restricts movement, and can slip dangerously. To measure your horse:
- Stand them square on a flat surface
- Measure from the centre of the chest to the point of the buttock in a straight line
- This measurement in inches is your rug size (e.g. 68", 70", 72")
Check that the rug sits level across the back, doesn't pull at the shoulders, and allows free movement of the neck. Adjustable cross surcingles and leg straps help keep everything in place.
How Many Turnout Rugs Do You Need?
Most horse owners benefit from at least two - one on, one drying. If your horse lives out full-time or you're heading into a wet winter, three gives you real peace of mind.
Ready to Shop?
Browse our full range of turnout rugs - from lightweight waterproofs to heavyweight winter rugs - and find the perfect fit for your horse this season.
Also worth reading: A helpful guide to horse riding boots | Riding essentials for the beginner rider