The key to a quality horse rug comes down to how and what they are made from and at Just Rugs we take great care to test the quality and performance of the fabrics and fittings that together make a Just Rugs rug.
Fabrics, weave and tailoring techniques are critical determinants of rug quality and ultimately the care and comfort of your horse. For a Just Rugs rug this comes down to choices about the right denier, fill, synthetic rip stop weave and waterproofing techniques.
All of our horse rugs have been designed to deliver maximum durability and comfort to your horse. To give you a further insight into how we do this we have provided some further information about denier, fill, rip stop weave and the waterproofing techniques we employ.
DENIER
Denier describes the weight, strength and density of the fabric. 600D 900D 1200D are the more common types you will see when choosing a rug. These are typically robust with the higher the number the stronger the synthetic or cotton fabric.
FILLING
Filling describes the weight and warmth factor of your horse rug. Rugs may vary from “no fill” to 400 gram of fill or maybe more. The amount of fill refers to how many grams per square meter of filling there is in the rug. When choosing the rug thickness for your horse take into consideration facts like, climate, night to day temperatures, clipping, under rugs, and, if someone is available to remove the rug should the day be warmer than expected.
RIP STOP
Rip-stop or tear resistant describes the weave and the ability of the outer fabric to resist and retain tears. The weave contains the tear to minimise the damage that otherwise may have resulted. Barb or sharp wire is especially nasty to horses and their rugs, we suggest this combination be avoided if possible.
WATERPROOFING
Waterproof/breathable rugs are chemically treated to prevent water passing through the fibres whilst allowing air to pass through. The term waterproof refers to the shell fabric the rug is constructed of. This treatment is not performed within the seams of the rug, therefore the seams are taped to minimise water penetration. Fastening locations and stitching cannot be waterproofed although as with canvas rugs the stitching swells to minimise water making its way through, it is impossible to make these parts completely water tight. It is advisable to have an additional replacement rug to switch to after continued heavy rain or if rain and high humidity are present together as breathability is reduced in this instance. Also ensure you allow your rug to dry thoroughly in a well ventilated spot, as this will increase its life and pack away from the summer sun to prolong the life of your rug. All 1200 denier fabrics within our range are hydrostatic pressure tested to make sure we bring you the best.
When washing your horse rug, detergents may damage the waterproofing treatment, therefore we recommend detergents and bleaches not be used on rugs that have been waterproof treated. Always make sure your rug is allowed to thoroughly dry before packing away for the summer.
SHOWERPROOF
Showerproof rugs are designed to withstand moderate rain for approximately 6 to 8 hours. Our rugs marked showerproof have been tested to this resistance and therefore deemed showerproof as we expect much a longer resistance for the title "waterproof" The fabric has been treated in the same way as general waterproofing but has higher breathability properties. Heavy and prolonged rain may seep through the pores of the rug.
WHY DO WE USE A POLYESTER AND COTTON BLEND IN OUR SUMMER HORSE RUGS?
A mix of polyester and cotton gives your horse maximum comfort. Cotton is one of the coolest fabrics, helps reduce that dreaded static and has high breathability properties. Polyester ensures your rug dries quickley should your horse get caught in a rain shower. Also by placing under winter rugs or rainsheets assist with airflow.
Our diamond weave gives your rug a touch of class, while adding strength. Whilst our braided neckline helps keep your rug in shape and looking good long after your purchase.
