Horse Rugging: 8 Common Mistakes Horse Owners Should Avoid This Summer
Horse Rugging: 8 Common Mistakes Horse Owners Should Avoid This Summer
Rugging horses in the Australian summer can be challenging. The goal is to protect them from harsh UV rays, biting insects, and coat damage—while keeping them cool and comfortable. The mistake many owners make isn’t rugging itself, but choosing the wrong rug for the conditions, or managing rugs poorly. The right summer rug can make all the difference, but the wrong choice may cause overheating, rubbing, or discomfort. Here are 8 common rugging mistakes to avoid—and how Delzani’s summer horse rugs are designed to keep your horse safe, cool, and protected.
Mistake 1: Believing Rug Weight Equals Rug Heat
Many owners assume that the lighter the rug, the cooler the horse will be. In reality, airflow and fabric design matter more than weight alone. For example, the Barcoo mesh rug (280gsm, flat weave) has proven to be every bit as cool as a cotton flag rug in humid SE Queensland—while lasting much longer. For extreme heat, the Barcoo Lite (130gsm, flat weave) is ideal, providing maximum airflow with coat-friendly comfort.
Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Rug in Hot Conditions
Some rugs are simply not built for summer. Heavy cottons or poor-quality synthetic fabrics can trap heat and reduce breathability. The solution isn’t to stop rugging, but to switch to purpose-built summer rugs like the Barcoo, Warrego, Flag rugs, or the new Outback PVC Combo. These designs protect against flies and sun exposure while allowing natural airflow, helping horses stay cooler and more comfortable.
Mistake 3: Forgetting That Every Horse Is Different
Just like people, some horses naturally feel the heat more than others. A horse with a dark coat may heat up quickly in the sun, while a pink-skinned horse may burn easily without UV protection. Rugging decisions should always be tailored to the horse, not just the weather forecast. By monitoring behaviour—such as sweating, agitation, or lethargy—you can select the right rug style for your horse’s unique needs.
Mistake 4: Neglecting Rug Hygiene
A clean rug is a cool rug. Sweat, dirt, and hair build-up reduce airflow and make rugs less effective. A dirty rug can quickly feel hotter and heavier on your horse. Regular washing and rotating between rugs is essential in summer. Delzani’s durable designs, such as the Warrego and Barcoo, are built to withstand frequent cleaning without losing strength or comfort.
Mistake 5: Overlooking Coat Colour and Skin Sensitivity
Coat colour and skin type make a big difference. Dark horses absorb heat faster and often benefit most from breathable mesh like the Warrego or Barcoo. Light-coated or pink-skinned horses need rugs that prioritise UV defence, such as our Flag rugs or the Barcoo mesh with its UV stabilised 87%± rating. Choosing with coat and skin in mind ensures both comfort and protection.
Mistake 6: Prioritising Durability Over Comfort (or Vice Versa)
Every horse has different needs. Raised-weave mesh like the Warrego is tough and offers excellent airflow, making it perfect for horses that are hard on rugs. The Barcoo flat weave is smoother and less abrasive, suiting sensitive coats. For the hottest days, the Barcoo Lite delivers ultra-light breathability. And for horses that are notoriously rough on their gear, the Outback PVC Combo is the strongest option—crafted from 400gsm knitted polyester PVC mesh that softens with wear while offering unbeatable durability.
Mistake 7: Ignoring Rug Fit
Even the best fabric won’t work if the rug doesn’t fit properly. Poor fit can cause rubbing on the shoulders, chest, and withers. A good summer rug should sit snugly, without pulling, while still allowing free movement. Delzani rugs are cut with anatomical shaping to reduce pressure points and help keep rugs in place during long hours in the paddock.
Mistake 8: Forgetting Complete Protection
Rugging the body is only part of the solution. Flies also attack the face, ears, and belly. Pairing a summer rug with a fly mask and using insect repellent on exposed areas ensures complete protection. This not only improves comfort but also keeps your horse’s coat in top condition for showing or everyday health.
Smarter Rugging with Delzani
Summer rugging isn’t about whether to rug or not—it’s about choosing the right rug. Delzani’s summer range includes the premium Barcoo, airflow-boosting Warrego, ultra-light Barcoo Lite, traditional Flag rugs for UV defence, and the new Outback PVC Combo for unbeatable durability. With the right rug, your horse can enjoy protection from the elements while staying cool and comfortable all season long. Explore the full collection of summer horse rugs today.
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