Zilco Explorer 100 Combo
$134.95
Winter Horse Rugs
Winter horse rugs are turnout and stable rugs with a layer of polyester fill between a tough outer and a smooth lining. The fill weight, measured in grams, sets how warm the rug is. Most Australian winters call for 100g to 300g, with a waterproof outer for horses that live out.
They are part of our wider Horse Rugs collection.
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How Warm Is a Winter Rug?
Warmth comes from the fill, measured in grams of polyester fibre per square metre. More grams trap more warm air.
- 100g to 150g suits cool nights, unclipped horses and mild coastal winters.
- 200g to 220g is a medium weight for cold nights and most inland winters.
- 300g and over is heavyweight, for frosts, clipped horses and older horses that drop condition.
An unfilled waterproof sheet sits below this range. See our rain rugs for those.
What Does 1200D Mean?
Denier, shown as D, measures the thickness of the yarn in the outer fabric. A 1200D outer is heavier and more tear resistant than 600D.
Choose 1200D for horses that roll, rub on fences or share a paddock. A 600D outer is lighter and is often enough for a quiet horse or a pony.
Combos, Liners and Under Rugs
A combo has a neck rug attached, which keeps the neck and shoulders warm where a clipped horse loses heat fastest.
Layering systems pair a waterproof shell with detachable liners, so one outer covers a whole season. Under rugs and duvets go beneath a turnout rug for extra warmth on the coldest nights. Spare straps and bibs are in rug accessories.
Avoiding Overheating
Check under the rug by sliding a hand behind the shoulder. A sweaty or hot horse is over rugged. Drop a weight on warm days rather than leaving a heavy rug on.
When spring arrives, swap to summer rugs. For travel, events and drying off after work, see show and fleece rugs.
Brands in This Category
Winter ranges include Zilco, Eurohunter and Kentucky Horsewear, from medium combos to layering systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fill weight winter rug does my horse need?
As a general guide, 100g to 150g suits cool nights and unclipped horses, 200g suits most cold winters, and 300g or more suits frosts and clipped horses. Breed, coat, age and body condition all change this, so check under the rug and adjust the weight rather than rugging by the calendar.
Is a combo or a standard rug better in winter?
A combo covers the neck as well as the body, which helps clipped horses and horses in exposed paddocks. A standard rug with a separate neck rug is more flexible because you can take the neck off on milder days. Many owners keep both and choose based on the forecast.
Can I put two rugs on my horse?
Yes, layering is common. A thin under rug or a detachable liner goes beneath a waterproof turnout rug to add warmth without buying a heavier rug. Make sure the under layer fits well, sits flat at the wither and does not rub, and check for sweating under the layers.
How do I measure my horse for a winter rug?
Measure from the centre of the chest, around the widest part of the shoulder, to the point of the buttock. Most Australian rugs are sized in feet and inches, such as 5'9" or 6'3". If your horse is between sizes, check the brand size chart, as cut and drop vary between makers.
