Summer sheets

Summer Rugs for Horses as protection

A summer rug offers protection on cooler summer days and during late summer, without overheating your horse. At HorseOnline, you’ll find various summer rugs specially designed to help regulate your horse’s body temperature. They also help keep your horse clean and dust-free. Whether you're looking for a breathable cotton sheet, a luxury waffle rug, or a lightweight stable rug — we have the perfect option for your horse.

Why use a summer rug?

A summer rug protects against chills and drafts, especially during cooler nights or colder summer days. Made from breathable and lightweight materials like cotton or polyester, these rugs allow moisture to escape while ensuring optimal ventilation. They also help keep annoying insects at bay, enhancing your horse’s comfort. In addition to protecting against the elements and insects, a summer rug helps maintain a clean coat and prevents rubbing from sand, straw or sweat. These rugs are versatile and suitable for both transport and stable use.

Our summer rug collection at HorseOnline

We offer a carefully selected collection of high-quality summer rugs, including:

1. Cotton Sheet Summer Rug

Made from a blend of polyester and lightweight cotton, ideal for stable or transport use. Breathable and prevents rubbing.

2. Horseware Rambo Stable Sheet

The Rambo Classic Cut is a lightweight cotton stable rug, perfect for summer use. With double front closures and two cross-surcingles, it offers an excellent fit. Durable, strong, and built to last.

3. Nancy Waffle Blanket

The Anna Scarpati Nancy is a luxury, quick-drying waffle rug made from soft textured fabric — perfect as a show rug or sweat rug.

When to use a summer rug

A summer rug offers protection against light cold, drafts and dirt — especially during cool summer nights or in late summer. Whether your horse needs a rug depends on factors such as climate, the horse’s condition, and whether it’s clipped. Unclipped horses can regulate their body temperature more easily and usually need less coverage. Clipped horses lose heat faster and may need extra protection, especially during chilly nights or windy weather. A lightweight rug without filling can offer protection without causing overheating. Above certain temperatures, a rug may not be necessary — unless it's used for cleanliness or insect protection.

Note: Every horse has a different thermoneutral zone — always observe how your horse responds to the temperature.

Avoid overheating

Using a rug that’s too heavy may cause overheating. White patches inside the rug may indicate sweating. In that case, switch to a lighter rug or remove it entirely.

Impact on the winter coat

As days grow shorter, horses begin to grow their winter coat. Want to delay this process? Use a summer rug, sweat rug, or lightly filled winter rug early enough to help keep the coat short and manageable.

What to consider when choosing a summer rug:

1. Material

Cotton is breathable and moisture-wicking, while polyester is lighter and dries quickly.

2. Fit and size

A good fit prevents rubbing and discomfort. Make sure the rug sits well on the withers and isn't too tight or loose.

3. Closures

Belly straps and front closures help keep the rug in place, even if your horse moves around a lot.

4. Usage

Determine where you’ll use the rug: stable, transport, or pasture.

Shop summer rugs at HorseOnline

Looking for the perfect summer rug? At HorseOnline, you'll find rugs for every situation — from lightweight cotton sheets to luxurious waffle rugs.

We also offer a wide range of other horse rugs, like fly sheets and rain sheets so your horse is protected all year round. Order easily online and keep your horse comfortable during warmer months. Questions or need advice? Contact us via +31 6 12 40 19 41 or [email protected].