Velder Horsewear Cooler Rugs
A good cooler rug helps your horse cool down and dry gradually after riding, washing or during transport. In this category you will find Velder Horsewear cooler rugs for everyday use: from lightweight jersey to warm fleece.
When do you use a cooler rug?
A cooler rug draws moisture away from the coat whilst retaining just enough warmth for a controlled cool-down. You would reach for one, for example:
- After training or competition: to wick away sweat whilst your horse cools down.
- After washing: to speed up the drying process (especially in cooler weather or draughty conditions).
- During transport: many horses sweat in the trailer; a cooler rug aids temperature regulation.
- With (partially) clipped horses: extra support when cooling down, particularly during the transitional season.
Tip: walk your horse out first, then put the cooler rug on. This allows moisture to escape without your horse cooling too quickly. Once your horse is (nearly) dry, remove the rug or swap it for a dry one. This prevents the fabric from remaining damp and your horse from cooling down too fast.
Materials & Properties
The best cooler rug depends above all on the material, fit, and how frequently it is used. Within Velder Horsewear you will find fleece and jersey options.
Fleece cooler rug: warm, absorbent and comfortable
Fleece is popular because it absorbs a great deal of moisture whilst remaining comfortably warm.
Points to consider with fleece:
- Anti-pilling: helps keep the rug looking neat with intensive use.
- Warmth: ideal after training in colder periods or for horses that cool down quickly.
- Use: also excellent as a cooler at shows or during transport.
Jersey cooler rug: lightweight and practical
If you prefer a thinner rug for everyday use or milder temperatures, jersey is often the right choice. Polyester jersey is known for being lightweight and moisture-wicking. Handy for horses that dry quickly or when less warmth is preferred.
Fastenings, fit and comfort
A cooler rug should lie quietly without pulling at the shoulder or creating pressure on the chest. When fitting, check:
- Chest fastening: closes securely but not restrictively; there must still be room to move.
- Crossed surcingles: keep the rug from slipping (useful when walking or travelling).
- Tail cord/strap: prevents the rug from blowing up and keeps it neatly in place.
Between two sizes? Do not automatically go larger: an over-sized rug slides back more easily and can cause rubbing at the shoulders or withers.
With or without neck cover: when is it useful?
Not every cooler rug includes a neck cover, but one is helpful if your horse sweats heavily around the neck, if the stable is draughty, or during transport. The topline then dries more evenly. If you mainly want quick drying without extra warmth, a model without a neck cover is often sufficient and slightly easier to use.
Size guide: how to measure for the correct cooler rug size
The right size makes a real difference to comfort and performance. Measure with a tape measure from the centre of the chest, along the side, to the point of the buttock. This is the most widely used measuring method for Velder Horsewear rugs. Then check:
- The rug sits on the chest without pulling or gaping.
- The shoulders have freedom of movement (including at walk).
- The rug ends just before or around the base of the tail, depending on the model.
- The crossed surcingles are not too tight and cross neatly under the belly.
Exactly between two sizes? Pay particular attention to build and musculature (narrow vs. broad). A slim horse often fits better in the smaller size, whilst a broader horse may benefit from a touch more shoulder room in the larger size.
Care & Washing: keeping your cooler rug in top condition
With proper care, your cooler rug will remain hygienic and the fabric will continue to perform as it should. A few practical tips:
- Fasten hook-and-loop closures and buckles before washing to reduce wear.
- Wash preferably at a low temperature with a mild detergent (avoid fabric softener, as it can impair moisture-wicking properties).
- Allow the rug to dry in the air; high heat (tumble dryer/radiator) can cause materials to deteriorate more quickly.
- Remove as much hair and sand as possible beforehand (brush or rinse briefly) to protect your washing machine.
Complete Your Set
Stable rugs: for warmth in the stable once your horse is dry. Under-rugs: when layering in changeable temperatures. Rug accessories: such as tail straps, chest extenders, or neck covers (where applicable). Rug washing detergents: to help maintain materials and moisture-wicking performance.
