GUIDE TO PURCHASING YOUR OUTDOOR RUG
There are many types of rug on the market, to suit different purposes and types of horses. Below is a short glossary some common terms and what they mean to you.
RIP STOP-refers to the material and describes a way of modifying the wrap and weft of fabric so it can contain rips and tears, it is usually a man made toughened fabric. Please note this does not mean it is imposable to rip. it will not stop barbed wire tears.
EXTRA DEEP- -a rug that extends further down the horse to give more protection to the belly, and legs.
WATERPROOF/ WATER RESISTANT - this refers to the outer fabric of the rug, Any rug advertised as waterproof is referring to the fabric used in the rug rather than the whole product, This is because rugs contain stitching and fastenings that can not be taped seamed to prevent water penetration. IDEALLY YOU SHOULD ALWAYS BE PREPARED TO CHANGE A RUG THAT HAS BEEN SUBJECTED TO HOURS OF HEAVY RAIN , FOR A SPARE DRY ONE AND DRY OF THE ORIGINAL.
TEAR PROOFING- although top manufacturers use materials and fittings suitable for a horses strength, EVER THING USED MUST HAVE A BREAKING POINT FOR YOUR HORSES SAFETY. it would be dangerous to make a rug that would not give way if your horse got caught up/or trapped . To protect your horse and rug you should ensure it cannot come into any contact with barbed wire or sharp projections.
BREATHABLE- this refers to the rugs capability to allow sweat and moisture to pass away from the horses skin, to the outside.
TAPED SEAMS - this refers to a taping method used to cover seams on the inside of the rug to prevent water lacking through this can only be done with the fabric not the fittings or badges.
POLYFILL - is measured in grams the higher the grams the more polyfill per sq meter and the warmer your horse.
DENIER-is the weight of the yarn in a given area of the fabric. The higher the denier the tougher the fabric.
BUYING THE RIGHT SIZE
Fit is important , rugs are usually sized in 3 inch increments, the measurement refers to the distance from the center of the chest around the body to the rear of the quarters were you would expect the rug to finish. It is worth bearing in mind a horse with a broad back say might need to move up a size to allow for it. Alternatively it may be necessary to look at different makes or styles. We are happy for you to take a rug to try on as long it is returned with a receipt and is clean and in a re saleable condition,.
MAINTENANCE OF YOUR OUTDOOR RUG
Rugs should be remove daily, so the horse and rug can be checked , they should never be put on a wet horse.
There will come a time when rough whether or accidental damage may mean you need a replacement while your tug dry's or is repaired, Do not wait for things to go wrong before having a contingency plan, YOU SHOULD NOT EXPECT TO GO ALL WINTER WITH ONE RUG
Fittings should be cleaned and checked regularly, the rug may need reproofing from time to time, We will be happy to advise you on either sending your rug away for laundering and reproofing, or on doing it your self.
At the end of the season your rug should be cleaned, dried (waterproofed) and repaired as necessary . before the next season.
WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF A PROBLEM.
We will all ways try and sort out any problems you might have quickly and efficiently. but please keep your receipt as proof of purchase, and remember to have a contingency plan in place as the rug may need to be left with us for repairs, or to be referred back to the manufacturer. All rugs must be returned clean and dry.
ALL INFORMATION IS TAKEN FROM THE BETA GUIDE TO PURCHASING YOUR OUTDOOR RUG WHICH MAY BE FOUND HERE BETA GUIDE TO PURCHASING YOUR OUTDOOR RUG IN FULL