The best show rugs for horses are versatile. Not only do they need to keep your horse looking clean and smart, but as your horse is likely to be standing around between classes, a good show rug should keep him warm on a chilly day and help him cool down on a warm day – breathable and wicking properties are essential here.
The best show rugs can also be used for travelling, which means you only need one rug all day, saving you from packing a full wardrobe. You’ll be thankful for the simple fastenings that feature on most show rugs, too, tack when you’re rushing to your next class and your horse is slightly more on his toes than normal.
We’ve rounded up a range of the best show rugs – some boast a range of technical features, while others are super-smart – and we’ve also rounded up the best technical coolers and the best travel rugs, if you’re looking for something more specific.
Best show rugs for horses
WeatherBeeta Thermocell Standard Neck Cooler
Colours: Navy/white | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in | RRP: £99.99 |
This smart and versatile cooler from Weatherbeeta has an ultra-soft feel and stylish design. Made with multi-layer fabric, it is lightweight but warm with excellent wicking properties to keep your horse dry and comfortable. It features a single adjustable front surcingle closure, low cross surcingles and tail cord.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com
DefenceX System Deluxe Fleece Rug
Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in | RRP: £49.99 |
A luxurious addition to any wardrobe, this rug made by Hy can be used in a wide variety of situations. It is made from a soft fleece fabric that traps the air to help keep your horse warm, while also wicking moisture away from the skin to prevent a wet horse getting cold. It featuring a rolled cushioned neckline to prevent rubbing, a single touch-tape fastening at the front and adjustable cross surcingles.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
LeMieux Four Seasons Rug
Colours: Black or navy | Sizes: 5ft3in – 6ft9in | RRP: £139.95 |
This smart rug from LeMieux has great thermal and wicking qualities – it wicks away moisture through its top layer while the fleece inner lining allows air flow to keep your horse warm and dry. It is finished with braided rope detailing and has a deep, rolled back collar for maximum comfort and security. It is fully adjustable with twin front straps that allow for more freedom of movement.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Shires Tempest Original Team Shires Show Rug
Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £59.99 |
This Shires rug is described as a great all-rounder with a show style. Lightweight and quick drying, it also wicks away excess moisture to prevent chilling and helps regulate temperature so is ideal for shows, travelling, after bathing and exercise. It features a SupaFleece neck trim, buckle chest straps, adjustable cross surcingles and a fillet string.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk
Supreme Products Show Sheet
Colours: Black/gold | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £49.99 |
This lightweight and breathable show sheet from Supreme Products is great for use while travelling or during busy days at competitions. It will protect your horse from dust and dirt, keeping them clean and pristine ready for the ring. It has double chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingle straps and fillet string, as well as a fleece-lined wither. It is finished with gold trim and the Supreme Products logo for a smart look.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Mark Todd Pro Stable Sheet
Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £59.99 |
This Mark Todd rug features a 1000D water-resistant, breathable ripstop outer and a soft moisture-wicking lining. It has easy front T-bar fixings, adjustable cross surcingles, fillet string and fleece wither protection.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Masta Fleece Rug
Colours: Black | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in | RRP: £60 |
Made from breathable, wicking fleece fabric with a soft anti-pill finish, this Masta rug can be used for travelling, stabling, after bathing or exercise. It features an anti-rub lining at the chest and has a fleece wither pad to reduce rubbing. It also has twin T-bar fastenings to the front, cross surcingles and a fillet string, and is finished with metallic silver piping for a stylish finish. Also available with fixed neck.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
You might also like:
9 travel rugs worth adding to your horse’s wardrobe
Are you on the search for a new travel rug for your horse? Check out this selection of the best
7 tail guards that will provide protection during travel
7 cooler rugs to consider for your four-legged friend
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.