The Development and History of Horse Rugs

A horse rug, sometimes also called a blanket or a
sheet, is usually designed to offer the horse
protection in some way; depending on the type of
rug this may be to keep the horse warm, clean or
shielded from the elements. Others are designed
specifically to improve safety, such as
fluorescent exercise rugs which allow the horse
to be seen by other road users, whilst some are
specifically as an adornment to improve
appearance.

Originally developed by tribes of Native
Americans, to begin with the rugs were used more
like a saddle - the only thing separating the
horse from the rider. Designed to keep both the
horse and rider warm, they were popular for use
as traditional ceremonial wear.

These first rugs were made from wool, which had
to be cleaned and spun, and then woven by hand.
The rugs were usually dyed using plant and
vegetables dyes to create a range of vivid and
beautiful colours. These rugs were attached to
the horse with rope, fashioned into what would
be considered a girth today. Whilst difficult to
make and not very durable, these rugs were
certainly a sight to behold; with designs and
colours far exceeding those available today.

Considered a precious commodity to the Native
American horse owners, as they are to horse
owners today, these rugs were often traded
between tribes for other possessions. They
continue to be used by Native American tribes
today in much the same way as they always have
been.

We now take being able to keep our horses warm
and protected from the elements for granted;
through the use of the most innovative materials
and designs we are able to ensure that the horse
is comfortable and even stylish! It is difficult
to believe that the horse rug has come from such
humble beginnings.

Nowadays a huge range of horse rugs are
available on the market, from stable and turnout
rugs to fly and fleece sheets. There's a rug for
every occasion, to suit horses of every shape
and size. Significant improvements have been
made to the rugs throughout their history; from
the development of improved inner and outer
materials, to greater features to secure the
rugs and ensuring that they allow the horse
freedom of movement. These improvements have
been made to ensure the safety and comfort of
the horse in order to match the requirements of
the modern horse.

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