The best cooler rugs for horses are typically multi-purpose. Their main purpose is to aid gradual cooling after exercise, but are often also used to maintain an ideal temperature while travelling and to speed drying and prevent chilling after bathing.
It is absolutely essential that a cooler rug is breathable and possesses effective wicking ability to do a good job. Some are designed to be used in particularly cool or warm environments, so it’s worth considering when you expect to be using your new purchase most.
What is wicking material?
Wicking material draws moisture away from the body and is frequently used in technical clothing as well as rugs and saddle pads. Wicking allows the body to cool itself down – if you (or your horse) are exercising and the moisture (sweat) isn’t removed, the body won’t be able to cool itself, while if you stop exercising and the moisture stays on the skin, the body will get cold. The moisture is moved to the top of the fabric where it can evaporate. Wicking material is an essential when it comes to the best cooler rugs.
Best cooler rugs for horses
WeatherBeeta Wick Dri II Combo Neck Cooler
Colours: Charcoal/blue/white | Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in | RRP: £89.99 |
This lightweight, breathable and wicking cooler from Weatherbeeta has a mesh-covered Cooldry fleece upper to offer additional protection to the major muscle groups and a mesh lower for optimum airflow. It has a combo neck style with hideaway neck pocket with touch-tape closure so that you can easily fold the neck away if desired. The fleece wither relief panel provides additional comfort, while the single adjustable buckle front closure, single hidden adjustable surcingle and tail cord keep the rug smart yet secure.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Shires Tempest Original Mesh Cooler Rug
Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft – 7ft | RRP: £29.99 |
The lightweight, breathable and airy mesh of this Shires rug creates a micro-climate that allows moisture and heat to escape without causing chilling. It is fastened with T-bar chest straps, adjustable cross surcingles and a fillet string.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com
Mark Todd Coolex Cooler
Colours: Navy/white, navy/red, black/silver, grey/plum or burgundy/white | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £74.99 |
This smart, versatile rug from Mark Todd features triple-layer quilted fabric that effectively wicks moisture away to help maintain an optimum temperature. It is ideal for use when travelling, as a cooler after exercise or to dry a wet horse after washing. It features front chest buckles, low cross surcingles, and a fillet string.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Protechmasta Therapy Cooler Rug
Colours: Black | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in | RRP: £169 |
This Masta cooler uses far infrared radiation, which is a natural process that gently and safely assists blood circulation. It’s made of a highly wicking airmesh outer., which is lightweight and breathable to allow optimum airflow. The ceramic-infused lining helps to regulate temperature.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Hy StormX Original MeshX Rug
Colours: Navy/grey | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £32.99 |
Made from lightweight breathable mesh, this rug made by Hy will wick moisture away from the skin while preventing chilling and ensuring optimum comfort. It features a fleece wither area to prevent rubbing, front T-bar chest closure, adjustable surcingles and a fillet string.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Ruggles Standard Triple Layer Wicking Rug With Tail Flap
Colours: Port Royal | Sizes: 2ft9in – 7ft6in | RRP: From £45 |
This rug from Ruggles is described as really handy in the colder months, particularly when you’re short of time. Not to be confused with a standard fleece, this quilted rug is triple layered and wicks moisture from the coat while keeping your horse warm. It features a nylon chest lining, generous tail flap and adjustable chest straps with quick-release clips. It is machine washable.
In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk
Equine Products UK Mesh and Fleece Cooler
Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £48.60 |
This smart and lightweight mesh cooler from Equine Products features a wicking fleece lining with double belly straps. It is also machine washable.
In the UK? View now at equineproducts-ukltd.com
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