John Whitaker Rastrick V2 Airflo Fixed Neck Turnout Horse Rug – Navy

Airflow Mesh for Warm-Weather Turnout

The John Whitaker Rastrick V2 Airflo Rug has been developed for weather conditions where a conventional turnout rug may feel too warm but a basic fly sheet does not provide enough protection.

Large Airflow Mesh panels along the sides of the rug encourage fresh air to circulate around the horse’s body. Additional mesh skirting around the lower edge and ventilated sections within the fixed neck help heat and moisture escape.

This breathable construction can help reduce uncomfortable heat build-up during warm, humid or changeable weather. It makes the rug particularly useful on showery summer days when the horse requires some protection across the back but still needs effective ventilation.

The mesh panels also create a physical barrier between the horse and many larger flies and insects. However, the Rastrick V2 Airflo is primarily a hybrid turnout rug and should not be treated as a specialist sweet-itch rug.

Individual horses regulate their temperature differently. Factors including coat type, age, health, body condition, shelter and wind exposure should always be considered before selecting a rug.

Regularly place a hand underneath the rug around the shoulder and chest. The horse should feel comfortably warm and dry rather than hot, clammy or cold.

Waterproof Protection Across the Horse’s Back

The Rastrick V2 Airflo uses waterproof turnout fabric along the spine to help protect the horse’s back from passing showers and damp conditions.

This targeted design provides weather protection across the area most directly exposed to rainfall while retaining breathable mesh across the sides and lower sections.

A waterproof tail cover extends protection across the hindquarters and top of the tail. The fully fixed neck also provides continuous coverage along the horse’s topline without the gap that can occur between a detachable neck cover and the main body of a rug.

It is important to understand that the Rastrick V2 Airflo is not waterproof across its entire surface. The mesh sections are intentionally ventilated and may allow water through during heavy or prolonged rainfall.

This makes the rug best suited to warm, showery conditions rather than persistent rain, storms or colder winter weather.

When sustained rainfall is expected, replace it with a fully waterproof turnout rug. The correct rug choice should always be based on the current forecast, field shelter, temperature and the individual horse.

Fixed Neck, Belly Flap and Secure Coverage

The John Whitaker Rastrick V2 Airflo provides extended coverage through its fully fixed neck, integrated belly flap and protective tail cover.

The fixed neck creates a continuous line of protection from the horse’s body towards the poll. This helps reduce exposed areas along the mane and shoulders while eliminating the need to attach a separate neck cover.

Ventilated mesh sections within the neck promote airflow, while the protective upper section helps shelter the topline from light showers.

Underneath the horse, an integrated belly flap provides additional coverage across an area frequently targeted by flies. It can also help protect the underside of the horse from wind and light splashes during suitable turnout conditions.

The belly flap should be adjusted securely without pulling tightly against the horse or hanging low enough to create a risk of catching a hoof.

At the rear, a waterproof tail cover helps shelter the hindquarters and top of the tail. Together, these features provide more extensive coverage than a standard-neck summer sheet or basic fly rug.

Correct adjustment is essential. Check all fastenings daily and inspect the chest, shoulders, belly, withers and hindquarters for pressure or rubbing.

Durable 600D Construction and Comfortable Movement

The upper section of the Rastrick V2 Airflo is constructed from lightweight 600-denier fabric, providing a useful balance between durability and reduced weight.

The chest has been reinforced because this area commonly experiences increased pressure, movement and wear. This additional reinforcement helps support regular use during turnout.

A shoulder gusset provides extra room through the front of the rug, allowing the shoulder to move more freely as the horse walks and grazes.

For the best fit, the front of the rug should close securely without pulling across the horse’s chest. The shoulder gusset should align correctly with the point of the shoulder, and the upper fabric should sit smoothly along the back without excessive tension.

The fixed neck should reach comfortably along the neck without becoming tight when the horse lowers its head to graze. The belly flap must sit close enough to remain secure while allowing the horse to move naturally.

Check the fit again after the horse has worn the rug for a short period. Movement can reveal pressure points, slipping or incorrect adjustment that may not be obvious when the horse is standing still.

Although 600D fabric is suitable for regular turnout, no horse rug is indestructible. Fencing, trees, gates, other horses and normal field activity can damage both fabric and fastenings.