Horse Rug Weight Guide: 0g vs 100g vs 200g vs 300g (What’s Right for Your Horse?)

Choosing a rug shouldn’t feel like a maths exam. But when you’re staring at 0g, 100g, 200g, 300g (and about 12 different weather forecasts), it’s easy to second-guess yourself.

This guide keeps it simple: what those numbers actually mean, how to choose based on your horse and routine, and the signs to check so you can adjust with confidence.

Quick answer: which rug weight should I choose?

As a general starting point:

• 0g: a waterproof layer for wet/windy days when your horse doesn’t need extra warmth

• 100g: a light bit of warmth for cool, damp weather or mild winter days

• 200g: a mid-weight option for colder conditions, especially if clipped or out more

• 300g: a heavier winter option for horses that feel the cold, are clipped, older, or struggle to hold weight

UK weather varies wildly, so think of rugging as a check-and-adjust system, not a one-time decision.

What does “0g / 100g / 200g / 300g” actually mean?

The “g” refers to the fill weight (usually in grams) inside the rug.

• 0g = no fill (a shell)

• Higher number = more insulation

It doesn’t automatically tell you everything about warmth, though. Other factors matter too:

• Rug fit (gaps let cold air in)

• Outer fabric and lining

• Neck cover vs no neck

• Whether your horse is wet underneath (sweat or rain)

Rug weight decision checklist

Run through these in order. You’ll get to the right answer faster.

1) Is your horse clipped?

Clipping removes natural insulation.

• Fully/trace clipped: often needs more rug than an unclipped horse

• Unclipped: may need less, especially if living out with shelter and good forage

2) Living out vs stabled

• Living out: wind + rain can chill fast, even if temperatures aren’t “that low”

• Stabled: less wind/rain exposure, but some horses still get cold standing in

3) Age and condition (good doer vs poor doer)

• Good doers: can often manage with less fill (and you’ll rely more on waterproofing and wind protection)

• Poor doers/veterans: may need more warmth to help maintain condition

4) What’s your horse telling you?

Don’t guess from the forecast alone. Check your horse.

• Cold ears, tucked-up posture, shivering = likely too cold

• Sweaty behind elbows/shoulders, damp coat, restlessness = likely too warm

Rug weights explained (with a simple comparison table)

Common rugging mistakes (and how to avoid them)

• Rugging to the calendar, not the horse: check daily and adjust.

• Too warm “just in case”: overheating can cause sweating and skin issues.

• Ignoring wind and rain: a windy wet day can feel colder than a dry frosty one.

• Poor fit: rubbing, pressure points, and cold drafts defeat the point.

• Not enough forage: horses stay warmer when they can eat plenty of fibre.

How to tell if your horse is too hot or too cold

Signs your horse may be too hot

• Sweating under the rug (especially behind elbows/shoulders)

• Damp coat or clammy skin

• Restlessness, irritability

• Rubbing or trying to roll more than usual

Signs your horse may be too cold

• Shivering

• Tense posture, tucked tail

• Cold ears/skin (use your judgement — some horses just have cool extremities)

• Looking “miserable” and not settling

If you’re unsure, it’s often safer to start slightly lighter and add warmth by layering or stepping up a weight once you’ve checked.

FAQs

Is a 200g rug warm enough for winter?

For many horses, yes — but it depends on clipping, living out vs stabled, age/condition, and weather (especially wind/rain).

When should I use a 0g turnout rug?

When you need waterproofing and wind protection without extra warmth — common in mild wet weather or for good doers.

Is it better to layer rugs?

Layering can work well if rugs fit properly and your horse stays dry. Avoid bulky layers that restrict movement or cause rubbing.

How do I know if my horse is too hot under a rug?

Check for sweat or dampness under the rug and signs of discomfort. If in doubt, drop a weight and re-check later.

Do unclipped horses need rugs?

Some do, some don’t. Unclipped horses living out with shelter and plenty of forage may cope well with minimal rugging.

What rug weight for a clipped horse?

Clipped horses often need more warmth. Many owners use 100g–300g depending on clip type and conditions.

Stable rug vs turnout rug: what’s the difference?

Turnout rugs are designed for weatherproofing outdoors. Stable rugs are for dry indoor use and usually aren’t waterproof.

Can rugging cause sweating and skin problems?

Over-rugging can lead to sweating, which can irritate skin and make horses uncomfortable. Daily checks help prevent this.

What temperature is too cold for no rug?

There isn’t one universal number — it depends on the horse, wind/rain, shelter, and forage. Use signs-based checks.

Should I rug a pony?

Many ponies are good doers and can overheat easily. Start lighter, monitor closely, and prioritise waterproofing and forage.

Need help with winter routines?

If you’re building a simple winter setup, it’s worth checking your stable basics too — forage, water, and condition support.

Browse our horse rugs: https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-supplements