Understanding Denier: The Key Differences Between 600D and 1200D Turnout Rugs
600D vs 1200D Horse Rugs: Which Rainsheet is Best for Your Horse?
Struggling to choose between 600D and 1200D? This complete guide explains what denier really means, how it impacts durability, what it doesn’t affect (like warmth), and how waterproofing, breathability, and care influence your horse’s comfort.
In the Delzani range: Waratah is our 600D rainsheet line, and Wyndham is our 1200D rainsheet line.
What is “Denier” in Horse Rugs?
When you see 600D or 1200D on a horse rug, the “D” stands for denier a measurement of the thickness and strength of the individual fibres that make up the outer fabric.
Think of it like the difference between threads in clothing: a fine silk shirt has very thin fibres, while a heavy-duty canvas bag has much thicker ones. The same applies to horse rugs:
- 600D (Waratah): Mid-weight fibres, giving a lighter, more flexible rug that still offers good strength for everyday turnout.
- 1200D (Wyndham): Heavier fibres, woven more densely to create a tougher fabric that stands up better to rough play, biting, and abrasive paddock conditions.
It’s important to note that denier measures fabric toughness, not warmth or waterproofing. A 600D rug and a 1200D rug will perform the same in terms of waterproofing and insulation those features depend on the rug’s membrane and fill, not the outer fabric.
600D vs 1200D Horse Rugs: Key Differences
600D (Waratah) Rainsheet
- Feel: Light and flexible, less bulk
- Durability: Strong ripstop fabric, suitable for everyday turnout
- Waterproofing: Uses the same membrane system as 1200D denier does not affect waterproofing
- Warmth: Denier does not affect warmth insulation depends entirely on fill weight (if any)
- Price: More economical choice
- Best for: Everyday turnout, horses who are easy on their rugs, value-focused buyers
1200D (Wyndham) Rainsheet
- Feel: Heavier outer, slightly stiffer when new, softens with use
- Durability: Extra abrasion resistance and tear strength
- Waterproofing: Same advanced membrane as 600D denier does not affect waterproofing
- Warmth: Denier does not affect warmth insulation depends entirely on fill weight (if any)
- Price: Higher due to denser, more robust fabric
- Best for: High-activity horses, horses who are hard on their rugs
Waterproofing & Breathability: What Denier Doesn’t Change
Whether you choose 600D or 1200D, both rely on the same waterproof membrane system. The denier number affects the outer fabric strength, not the waterproofing performance or warmth. Both options in the Delzani range exceed industry standards for waterproofing and breathability, ensuring your horse stays comfortable in wet conditions.
For a detailed explanation including how waterproofing works, how to test your rug, and what can affect long-term performance please see our full guide: Understanding Horse Rug Waterproofing.
How to Choose Between 600D and 1200D
- Everyday turnout horses easy on their rugs: Choose Waratah (600D).
- Rough paddocks & horses hard on their rugs: Choose Wyndham (1200D).
- Warm climate: Waratah (600D) is lighter and more flexible.
- Cold/windy or abrasive conditions: Wyndham (1200D) is more resilient.
- Budget: Waratah (600D) is more economical; Wyndham (1200D) offers maximum outer strength.
Choosing between Waratah (600D) and Wyndham (1200D) comes down to your horse’s behaviour, paddock environment, climate, and budget. Both offer Delzani’s trusted waterproofing and breathability. If in doubt, contact our team and we’ll help guide you to the best choice for your horse.
Why GSM Matters in Denier Fabrics
Not all horse rugs are created equal. Some importers cut corners by using a lighter GSM (grams per square metre) fabric while still advertising the same denier rating. On paper, a rug might look like a true 1200D, but if the GSM has been dropped, the fabric is thinner and won’t stand up to the same level of wear and tear.
Traditionally, a quality 1200D rug should be around 370gsm. However, we’re now seeing many so-called 1200D or even 1680D rugs being made with as little as 300gsm. To the eye, they look the same – but in reality they’re up to 20% thinner, meaning less strength and reduced durability.
At Delzani, we don’t cut those corners. Our Waratah (600D) and Wyndham (1200D) ranges are built to the proper GSM weights, giving you rugs that are tough, reliable, and built for Australian conditions.
Browse Delzani Rainsheets | Shop Waratah (600D) | Shop Wyndham (1200D)
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