Owning horses is a wonderful privilege. Many people save for years to realize their dream of ownership. Most horses are boarded at large barns where they receive excellent care. This involves being fed at regular intervals, having their stalls cleaned daily and being turned out in the field to get some exercise. When horses are turned out in the winter time they often need one or more blankets to keep them warm and dry.

Busy owners may not have as much time as they would like to spend with their animals. Often they have to stop at the barn on the way home to fit in a quick ride. They need to save as much time as possible and having their mount clean and ready to go is essential. Horse rugs really save a tremendous amount of time. Horses love to roll in the mud and although they enjoy this activity it typically leaves them caked in mud.

During the winter months horses grow long thick winter coats to protect themselves from the weather. It is quite amazing how effective these coats are at keeping them dry and warm. Horses can winter out in extremely low temperatures, as long as they are not sick or very old. However, horses that are being exercised or shown will need to have their winter coat removed.

For decades horse clothing was very difficult to take care of. An out door rug was heavy and practically impossible to wash. Within a matter of months the water proofing was gone and it would start to leak. Owners and their animals had no alternatives to choose from and were basically stuck with these ineffective and often uncomfortable blankets.

Horses that live out side all the time will also need at least one winter rug. This should be a high quality one that is both wind and water proof. There is a significant difference between water resistant and water proof. A water resistant rug is really just suitable for showers and cannot be expected to hold up to twenty four hour wear.

The lighter rug is perfect for a horse that comes into the stable at night. They do not need such a high level of protection. Once they come in they are changed into their stable rug, one that is light weight but warm and easy to wash. Throughout the course of the winter the rug will need to be laundered several times. Checking the washing directions prior to purchase is a good idea.

Horses are very active animals and they like to play rough. Their rug will soon be torn to shreds if they are not made of really high quality fabrics. They also need to fit properly and have plenty of room around the front of the shoulders. A nylon lining is excellent as it helps to prevent rubbing and bald areas.

A good quality rug will protect the animal in even the worst weather. They also come with detachable hoods that cover the entire neck and really help to keep a horse in show condition throughout the winter. Many riders still like to compete in the winter indoor circuit and need their animals to look good.