Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite *H&H Approved*

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite

If you can keep your horse clean, dry and protected from the elements in a lightweight turnout, while also doing your bit for the planet then you’re already onto a winner in my eyes. The Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite “saves over 340 plastic bottles from going into the ocean or landfill” as well as being made in a way which “uses far less — over 50% — less energy”. The recycled plastic bottles have been made into the outer and lining of the rug, and on first inspection it still feels like a robust, waterproof rug suitable for harsh weather conditions and heavy rainfall. In addition, the rug is was packaged in recyclable packaging that is also made from PCR (post consumer recyclable plastic).

At £154.99, the Weatherbeeta Green-Tec was on the more expensive end of the market, but it is a high quality, durable rug that will stand the test of time. I would never usually pay this much for a rug but it is well worth the money. Plus, it comes with a three year warranty. The black/bottle green colour combination was also lovely; dirt wouldn’t show up as clearly and the green detail gave it an appealing look which would distinguish it from other rugs on the yard.

I used a 6ft rug on a 14.2hh Dales pony mare. She is a stockier stamp of native with hair but is fit and in working condition. One of the main issues with rugging a native is finding a neck that is not too tight and does not restrict the movement or rub/mat the mane. This rug fit her neck perfectly, with plenty of room, which negated any concerns over hair rubbing. I would recommend this rug to owners of natives and stallions as it is very true to size; there isn’t a need to size up as you might do normally to accommodate the extra neck size and crest.

The fit of this rug was exception on this pony and it has kept her dry, warm and comfortable throughout its use. It is also mud repellent and water resistant so it can be used day after day without needing to wait for it to fully dry.

It was very user friendly; the front fastenings on the neck were easy to secure and the quick clip front closures are a welcome addition. I wasn’t sure if the choice of metal looked a little cheap but the buckles have withstood the harsh weather and muddy fields we have in Cumbria. It was arguably on the heavier side (to hold, rather than in terms of fill) for a turnout, so it will be useful to have the removable neck in warmer weather.

The rug was also deep on the horse which is handy to keep them dry and clean when clipped. The pleated front looked ideal for promoting movement of the horse when it gallops in the field and this would also take pressure off the front of the rug.

The only part that initially worried me was the lack of padding in between the rug and the detachable neck, but the small piece of fur lining negated any concerns and it has not rubbed the pony at all.

Verdict

Horse & Hound Approved – While this is definitely an expensive rug, the durability, quality and three year warranty ensures it will be in your horse’s wardrobe for years so it’s great value for money. One of the best turnouts I have ever owned.

View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, viovet.co.uk, sportsdirect.com, naylors.com or equus.co.uk

WeatherBeeta Green-Tec Turnout Rug – £102.79 at rideawaystore.com
Find this “H&H Approved” turnout with more than £50 off at Ride-Away.

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Who tested this rug?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

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