Shanga Econo Ripstop Combo
$49.95
Summer Horse Rugs
Summer horse rugs are light, unfilled rugs that protect a horse from sun, flies and dust without trapping heat. They are made from breathable fabrics such as mesh, cotton, flag and poly cotton ripstop, and most come as combos that also cover the neck.
They are part of our wider Horse Rugs collection.
World Leading Brands
Premium equestrian brands
5 Star Reviews
Trusted by thousands
Expert Support
Knowledgeable team ready to help
Australia-wide Delivery
Rates vary by product
30 Day Returns
Easy returns & exchanges
Why Rug a Horse in Summer?
A summer rug is about protection, not warmth. It keeps flies off, blocks sun that can bleach a dark coat or burn pink skin, and keeps a horse clean before an event.
Insect control treated fabrics add another layer of fly protection for horses that react to bites. Pair a rug with a fly mask from our fly masks range to cover the face and ears.
Which Summer Fabric Suits Your Horse?
Each fabric trades airflow against strength, so match it to how your horse lives.
- Mesh and airflow lets the most air through and suits the hottest days.
- Cotton is soft, breathable and gentle on sensitive skin.
- Flag is very light poly cotton, ideal for a stabled or quiet horse.
- Ripstop is a tougher woven poly cotton for horses that are hard on rugs.
- Hybrid rugs use ripstop on the topline with mesh on the sides.
Summer Rugs Are Not Waterproof
Most summer fabrics let water through, and a wet cotton or flag rug can chill a horse when the weather turns.
For a storm or a wet spell, swap to an unfilled waterproof sheet from our rain rugs. When nights cool down in autumn, move up to winter rugs.
Fit and Care
A summer rug should sit snug at the chest and wither without rubbing, and leg straps should allow a hand's width. Spares are in rug accessories.
Wash mesh and cotton rugs regularly, as sweat and dust build up quickly. For drying off after work, see show and cooler rugs.
Brands in This Category
Summer ranges include Shanga, Wild Horse, Zilco and Eurohunter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my horse wear a rug in summer?
Many horses do well without one, but a light summer rug helps horses that are bothered by flies, have pink skin that burns, have a dark coat that bleaches or need to stay clean for an event. Choose a breathable fabric and check that the horse is not sweating under it on very hot days.
What is the coolest summer rug for a horse?
Mesh and airflow rugs let the most air through, so they are usually the coolest choice for very hot weather. Cotton and flag rugs are also light and breathable but cover the coat more fully. Ripstop is tougher and slightly warmer, so it suits horses that are rough on their rugs.
Can a summer rug get wet?
Most summer rugs are not waterproof. Light rain will pass through, and a soaked cotton or flag rug can make a horse cold, especially overnight. If heavy rain is forecast, swap to an unfilled waterproof rain sheet or take the summer rug off and let the coat dry naturally.
What is a ripstop summer rug?
Ripstop is a woven fabric with a grid of stronger threads that stops small tears from spreading. Summer ripstop rugs are usually unlined poly cotton, so they stay breathable while lasting longer than mesh or flag. They are a popular choice for horses living out in a paddock with others.
