Does Your Horse Need a Wide-Fit Turnout Rug?

A broad chest and deep body can make rug shopping difficult even when you know your horse’s usual length. Swish’s wide-fit range is cut wider and deeper for chunkier horses, including cobs and heavier breeds. Take measurements first, then check how the rug sits on the individual horse.

Start with body length

Using a soft tape, measure from the centre of the chest, around the shoulder and along the side to the point near the tail where the rug should finish. Compare that measurement with the maker’s chart. Use the same measurement method each time and check the instructions for the range you are buying. See Swish’s rug size guide.

Check the cut around the horse

• Chest. Fastenings should close comfortably and securely with room for normal movement.
• Shoulders. Check for pulling across the front when the horse lowers its head and walks.
• Withers. Look for pressure, rubbing or the rug being pulled backwards.
• Body depth. Check coverage down the sides and how the belly straps sit.
• Hindquarters. Check the rug’s length and position at the back as well as the room at the front.

Try the rug on a clean horse, follow the fitting instructions and observe a few steps and a safe head-lowering movement. Adjust straps as directed and recheck the fit after the horse has moved. For general fitting guidance, see the British Horse Society’s rugging advice.

Wide-fit options in the Chestnut Mill range

For a lighter filled turnout, see the Swish Wide-Fit 100g Detachable-Neck Turnout Rug in Red. For more insulation in the same broad cut, see the Swish Wide-Fit 200g Detachable-Neck Turnout Rug in Red. Check the available sizes on each page.

Choose warmth using the horse’s coat, clip, body condition, shelter and response to the weather. Remove rugs daily to check the skin and signs of rubbing or sweating. Our rug-weight guide explains the different fills.

Match the liner to the outer rug

For a compatible Swish outer, check the wide-fit liner options in 50g, 100g and 200g. Check the attachment points and fit of both layers together. Read our liner fitting guide before choosing.

A wide-fit rug provides extra room through its cut. Surcingle extenders lengthen the belly straps. Use the horse’s measurements and the fit checks above to decide what is needed. Browse horse turnout rugs.