A Practical Guide to Getting Fit Right — First Time
A poorly fitted rug causes more problems than no rug at all. Rubbing, slipping, pressure sores, restricted movement and even behavioural tension can all stem from incorrect sizing.
Many owners guess rug size based on previous purchases or brand labels. However, rug sizing varies between manufacturers, and horses change shape throughout the year.
This guide explains how to measure your horse accurately — and how to assess correct fit once the rug is on.
Why Accurate Rug Measurement Matters
An incorrectly sized rug can lead to:
- Shoulder rubs
- Wither pressure
- Mane breakage
- Tail rubbing
- Slipping to one side
- Hind leg restriction
- Belly strap entanglement
- Reduced comfort during turnout
Fit affects both welfare and safety — not just appearance.
Step 1: Understand Rug Sizing Systems
In the UK, rugs are usually measured in:
- Feet and inches (e.g. 6’3”)
- Occasionally centimetres
This measurement refers to:
Distance from centre of chest → along the side of the body → to centre of tail.
It is not the back length — one of the most common sources of confusion.
Step 2: Measure From Chest to Tail
What You’ll Need
- A soft measuring tape
- An assistant (helpful but not essential)
- Horse standing square on level ground
How to Measure
- Start at the centre of the chest (not the shoulder point).
- Run the tape along the side of the body.
- Keep the tape level and straight.
- Follow the natural contour without pulling tight.
- Finish at the centre of the tail dock.
Round to the nearest available rug size.
Example
- Measurement = 6’1”
- Likely rug size = 6’0” or 6’3” depending on brand cut
When between sizes, consider body shape and brand fit.
Step 3: Consider Horse Type and Build
Two horses measuring 6’3” may need different rug styles.
Factors affecting fit include:
- Broad shoulders (warmblood types)
- Deep chest
- Narrow thoroughbred frame
- High withers
- Native or cob round barrel
- Long or short back
Many brands offer different cuts such as:
- Standard cut
- High-neck
- Combo neck
- Deep fit
- Narrow fit
Shape matters as much as length.
Step 4: Assess Fit Once the Rug Is On
Correct measurement is only the first step — fit must be checked in motion and at rest.
Chest Fit
The rug should:
- Sit flat across the chest
- Fasten comfortably without strain
- Not gape excessively
If chest is tight → rug likely too small.
If overlapping heavily → rug may be too large.
Wither Clearance
Check that:
- There is no downward pressure on the withers
- Mane is not flattened excessively
- You can slide a hand comfortably underneath
Wither pressure is a common cause of soreness.
Shoulder Freedom
Watch the horse walk.
The rug should:
- Allow free forward movement
- Not pull backward with stride
- Not rub at the point of shoulder
Restriction here can alter movement and cause irritation.
Body Length
The rug should:
- Cover the body fully
- Finish at the tail dock
- Not extend far beyond the tail
Too short leaves hindquarters exposed.
Too long increases slipping risk.
Belly and Leg Straps
Straps should:
- Be secure but not tight
- Allow roughly a hand’s width space
- Sit neatly without dangling
Loose straps create entanglement hazards.
Step 5: Monitor After 48 Hours
Even a rug that appears to fit well initially can shift during turnout.
Check after 1–2 days for:
- Hair loss or broken hairs
- Rub marks
- Uneven dirt patterns
- Slippage
- Strap twisting
Movement often reveals issues quickly.
Seasonal Re-Measuring
Horses change shape through the year due to:
- Weight gain or loss
- Muscle development
- Clipping
- Fitness changes
- Ageing
Reassess rug fit:
- After clipping
- Following noticeable weight change
- At the start of winter
- When increasing workload
Never assume last season’s size still fits perfectly.
Common Measuring Mistakes
Avoid:
- Measuring only along the back
- Measuring from shoulder point instead of chest centre
- Pulling tape too tightly
- Choosing size purely by brand label
- Ignoring body shape differences
- Guessing based on other horses
Accuracy prevents unnecessary expense and discomfort.
Signs a Rug Fits Correctly
A well-fitted rug will:
- Stay centred
- Allow free movement
- Sit smoothly across shoulders
- Show no rubs after wear
- Maintain even coverage
- Keep the horse comfortable
Good fit should look natural — not forced.
The Core Principle
Correct rug measurement:
- Improves comfort
- Reduces rubbing and pressure
- Supports effective insulation
- Prevents movement restriction
- Enhances safety
Fit is not cosmetic — it directly impacts welfare.
Measure carefully. Check regularly. Adjust as your horse changes.
A rug should work with your horse’s shape — not against it.
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Knowledge Hub: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/knowledge-hub/
Category: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/category/rugging-seasonal/
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