Preventing Shoulder Rubs in Horses: Why Shoulder Guards Make a Difference
Preventing Shoulder Rubs in Horses: Why Shoulder Guards Make a Difference
Few things frustrate horse owners more than seeing rub marks appear across their horse’s shoulders. They seem to show up almost overnight — bare patches, rough skin, or even sores where rugs sit and move. Beyond being unsightly, shoulder rubs can make your horse uncomfortable, limit movement, and take weeks or months to grow out again. The good news? With the right knowledge and preventative gear, you can protect your horse’s skin and keep them comfortable all year round.
Why do horses get shoulder rubs?
Shoulder rubs are most commonly caused by rugs, but not always because the rug is “wrong.” Instead, several factors can combine to create friction:
- Rug fit: Rugs that are too tight across the chest or too loose through the shoulders move excessively and rub hair away.
- Sensitive coats: Some horses simply have finer coats that are more prone to wear, especially during seasonal coat changes.
- Fabric texture: Rugs made from coarse or stiff materials may chafe more easily, especially when new or not washed regularly.
- Conformation: Broad-shouldered horses, or those with a more upright build, often experience greater pressure and movement in the shoulder area.
- Movement and rolling: Active horses that graze, play, or roll frequently can create more friction under their rugs.
Why shoulder rubs matter
It’s tempting to think of rubs as just a cosmetic issue, but they can have deeper consequences. Exposed skin is more vulnerable to sunburn, insect irritation, and infection if sores develop. Persistent rubbing can also change how your horse moves, as they adjust to avoid discomfort. And for horses headed to shows, visible shoulder rubs can be frustrating for presentation and coat condition.
Preventing shoulder rubs: practical steps
While no single method works for every horse, a combination of management strategies usually provides the best protection:
- Check rug fit regularly: Horses can change shape with work, condition, and season. What fit last winter might not suit now.
- Keep rugs clean: Built-up sweat, hair, and dirt increase friction. Rotate and wash rugs often during heavy use.
- Choose softer linings: Rugs with satin or nylon lining at the shoulders are kinder on coats than coarse cotton or stiff poly.
- Introduce padding: Products like bibs or shoulder guards provide a protective barrier between the rug and your horse’s skin.
How shoulder guards help
A shoulder guard (sometimes called a bib) is a simple, effective solution. Worn under the rug, it adds a smooth, low-friction layer across the shoulders and chest. The benefits include:
- Friction control: Guards absorb the movement between rug and skin, preventing hair loss and soreness.
- Comfort boost: Horses with sensitive coats or prone to rug rubs remain more relaxed and mobile.
- Versatility: Useful not only under turnout rugs but also in stables, during travel, or before shows when coat condition matters most.
- Durability: High-quality guards withstand daily use and wash easily, making them a practical part of your rugging routine.
Shoulder rubs: prevention is better than cure
Once a rub develops, it can take weeks for hair to regrow. Prevention saves both time and discomfort. Adding a shoulder guard early in the season, when rugs first go on, can mean the difference between a glossy, show-ready coat and patchy shoulders that take months to recover. For horses with a history of rubbing, making guards part of your standard rugging kit is a simple and effective choice.
The Delzani difference
At Delzani, we design Horse Bib Shoulder Guards specifically for Australian conditions. Crafted from breathable single-layer poly-cotton with an anti-rub lining, our guards outperform bulky dual-layer designs. Features include reinforced chest loops, fleece wither padding, and dual-stitched bindings for durability. Whether for daily turnout, travel, or show prep, they keep your horse comfortable and coat rub-free.
Explore the full range of Delzani Shoulder Guards and give your horse the comfort they deserve.
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