Mediumweight rugs
Our team of testers tried a selection of mediumweight turnout rugs to see if they were up to the job of keeping their beloved horses warm and dry over winter
The products
Bucas Power
Waterproof, breathable outer with a heat reflective inner aluminium coating. Featuring a stay dry antibacterial lining.
We say…
Provided a true-to-size fit. The chest snap-on clip was a little fiddly but got easier with time, adding extra security to the fit. The inner lining wicks away moisture and allowed us to put the rug on a damp horse, which is a huge time saver if you get caught out in a rain shower. The outer material stood up well to playful fieldmates.ย
Eskadron Omega
Features a dirt-repelling outer with neoprene mane padding and an elasticated neoprene section behind the elbow.
We say…
Offered a great fit and didnโt move, even after rolling. True to size and didnโt rub, so was great for sensitive horses. Fittings were robust and easy to use, and although the chest panel was fiddly to start with it worked well once adjusted. The neoprene panel seemed to offer greater freedom of movement, and the tail flap offered good coverage, with reflective branding.ย
Premier Equine Buster
Breathable outer with unique waterproof system that helps regulate temperature. With an extra-high shoulder gusset.
We say…
Performed well, even during prolonged periods of rain. Fittings were good quality and hardwearing. The generous velcro at the front stopped it coming open at the chest and the sizing was generous (we went down a size) and offered a perfect fit. Great depth and plenty of room to accommodate wide shoulders. Liner compatibility makes it a sensible long-term investment.
Weatherbeeta Comfitec Plus Dynamic II
Super-strong triple weave outer with a memory foam wither pad and reflective strips for extra visibility.
We say…
The rug had a tough outer material that has proven to be durable โ it never leaked even during downpours. The memory foam wither pad contoured nicely to the horseโs shape, preventing rubbing. We found the neck cover generous in length, and the rug offered a true-to-size fit, and didnโt slip. Itโs great value for all the extra features and three-year warranty.
Gallop Trojan Xtra 200
High-performance ripstop outer. This dual set offers complete flexibility with a detachable neck cover.
We say…
Stood up well to all conditions, didnโt leak and kept the horse a comfortable temperature. The generous depth offered great protection from the elements and the fittings were hardwearing, with plenty of adjustment on the chest. We found it to come up a little large, but the proportions were correct. The shaped neck cover was a nice touch.
John Whitaker R188 Rastrick
Smart rug with reflective webbing, adjustable trigger-clip chest fastenings and a shaped neck cover around the head.ย
We say…
A good quality, smart looking rug that was breathable but kept the horse dry. Didnโt rub. We found the chest trigger clips fiddly to adjust, but manageable. The neck cover was easy to attach to the main body of the rug when needed and the shaping at the top provided a good fit. Although it rode up on windier days, it didnโt let in water.ย
Hy Equestrian DefenceX System
Durable, waterproof turnout rug with reflective detailing to aid visibility. Features a deep shoulder gusset for movement.
We say…
The rug was true to size but not as deep as some, although it provided plenty of coverage for smaller or finer types. Weโd have liked more adjustment for the chest straps, but the neck cover was easy to do up and was generous enough even while grazing. Stood up well to 24/7 turnout and didnโt rub. The reflective detailing offered a bit of extra nighttime visibility.ย
Rhinegold Elite Storm
Features a waterproof stretch chest panel to aid freedom of movement. With breathable nylon lining and tough outer.
We say…
Tough outer that withstood wet, windy conditions. However, the elasticated neck attachments had too much give, which meant it moved when on and would ride up in the wind, allowing some rain to run down the front. It performed well otherwise, providing good coverage and freedom of movement for horses with larger shoulders, and plenty of chest adjustment.
Derby House Evolution Medium Detach-a-neck
With a waterproof and breathable ripstop outer that is made from a recycled fabric. Features a nylon lining.
We say…
Offered a true-to-size fit with plenty of adjustment options, so the rug would suit a variety of horses. It didn’t slip or move once on. Velcro neck fastenings were secure and robust. The tough outer stood up well to regular use and the lining didn’t rub. Showing only minor cosmetic signs of wear. Performed well during wet weather and dried reasonably quickly.