What is a Turnout Rug and What is it used for: Your FAQs Answered

Turnout rugs are essential for any equestrian. Offering protection from everything from light rain to frosty conditions, a turnout rug keeps your horse comfortable and happy out in the field. Whether you are new to the equestrian world and looking for guidance or a seasoned professional looking for quick answers to common questions, this Oakfield turnout rug guide has you covered. 

Table of contents

What is a turnout rug?
What is a turnout rug used for?
What is a combo turnout rug?
What weight turnout rug do I need?
Can you use a turnout rug in the stable?
What is the difference between a stable rug and a turnout rug?
Can you put a stable rug under a turnout?
Are turnout rugs waterproof?
Can you put a turnout rug on a wet horse?

Shires Tempest Original 100 Turnout Rug & Neck

Summary: Key Takeaways

What is a turnout rug? It is a waterproof and durable horse rug designed specifically to protect a horse from rain, wind, and cold when they are outside in a field.
Who is it for? Ideal for any horse owner who turns their horse out in the field, especially during autumn and winter, or for horses that are clipped and need extra protection.
Key features: A tough, waterproof, and breathable outer shell; a specific weight of polyfill insulation (light, medium, or heavy) for warmth; and secure fastenings to keep it in place.
Stable vs. turnout: While a turnout rug is waterproof for outdoor use, a stable rug is not waterproof and is designed only for keeping a horse warm and clean indoors.

What is a turnout rug?

A turnout rug is an essential piece of your horse’s wardrobe, designed specifically for outdoor use. It acts as a protective layer, shielding your horse from rain, wind, and cold temperatures while they are in the field. Turnout rugs are available in various weights, suitable for all weather conditions, ranging from light drizzle to sub-zero temperatures. Turnout rugs are protective yet breathable, keeping your horse comfortable and dry. 

What is a turnout rug used for?

The primary purpose of a turnout rug is to keep your horse warm and dry when they are turned out. They help regulate their body temperature, prevent them from getting chilled, and keep their coat clean and dry. Turnout rugs are essential for clipped horses, as they lack the warmth provided by their natural coat. The stable temperature and comfort from a turnout rug can also encourage better behaviour by reducing stress. 

What is a combo turnout rug?

A combo turnout rug has an integrated neck cover that is permanently attached to the main body of the rug. These offer more comprehensive protection from the elements, preventing rain from getting down the horse’s neck and keeping them warmer.

Asker 300g Horse Combo Neck Turnout Rug

What weight turnout rug do I need?

Choosing the right weight is essential for your horse’s comfort. The “weight” refers to the amount of polyfill insulation in the rug, measured in grams (g). Check our turnout rug weight guide below to find the best option for your horse. 

• Lightweight (0g – 100g): Ideal for warmer but wet days, or for hardy, unclipped horses. A 0g rug is essentially a rain sheet, while a 100g rug offers a little extra warmth.
• Medium-weight (150g – 250g): The perfect choice for spring and autumn. For many horses, a medium-weight rug is sufficient for most of the winter.
• Heavyweight (300g+): Best for very cold weather, snow, or for clipped horses and those that feel the cold more.

Can you use a turnout rug in the stable?

Yes, you can use a breathable turnout rug in the stable. These can be a convenient option if your horse is coming in and out frequently. However, many owners prefer to switch to a stable rug to keep the turnout rug clean and to give it a chance to dry if it gets wet. You can read more about horse rug care in our guide.

What is the difference between a stable rug and a turnout rug?

Let’s take a look at the main differences between a stable and turnout rug:

Feature	Turnout	Stable
Purpose	To protect the horse from outdoor elements like rain, wind, and mud.	To keep the horse warm and clean while inside the stable.
Waterproofing	Yes – fully waterproof and breathable.	No, not designed to be waterproof.
Material & durability	Made from tough, high-denier ripstop fabrics to withstand tears and outdoor conditions.	Made with smoother, less robust materials designed to prevent bedding from sticking.
Usage	Primarily for outdoor use in the field, but can also be used indoors.	Strictly for indoor use only.
Best for	When your horse is outside and needs protection from wet or windy weather.	When your horse is inside and needs extra warmth and comfort.

A turnout rug is designed for outdoor use. It will keep your horse warm and dry in cold, wet conditions. A stable rug is designed for indoor use, keeping your horse warm in the stable in very cold conditions. There are many types of horse rugs available at Oakfield. Browse the full collection, or read our horse rug storage guide to keep everything in check. 

Can you put a stable rug under a turnout?

Yes, you can put a stable rug under a turnout, but it isn’t recommended to do so. Layering these two types of rugs can cause rubbing and overheating, even in cold weather. Instead, use a breathable rug liner for added warmth or opt for a heavier turnout rug to keep your horse warm while maintaining breathability and comfort. 

Are turnout rugs waterproof?

Yes, a key feature of a turnout rug is its waterproof and breathable outer layer. Waterproofing is crucial for protecting your horse from rain and snow, ensuring your horse stays dry and comfortable.

Can you put a turnout rug on a wet horse?

It is not recommended to put a turnout rug on a wet horse. The rug can trap moisture against the skin, potentially causing chills and skin problems. It’s best to dry your horse with a fleece or cooler rug first, which will wick away the moisture, before putting on their turnout rug.

Rugs for all seasons at Oakfield 

Our collection of horse rugs has everything you need to keep your horse protected and comfortable all year round. From fly protection for the hotter months, exercise sheets for training sessions or stable rugs to keep your companion warm, Oakfield has you covered. For more guidance on horse rugs, check out our comprehensive guide. 

Relevant articles

How to wash and store saddle pads
Horse rug storage ideas
How to wash horse rugs