Investing in a quality lightweight turnout rug for your horse can make rugging a breeze through the spring months, helping keep your horse warm, dry and comfortable. Even compared to just ten years ago, lightweight turnout rugs have changed drastically. As a result, they offer better performance and durability. Fabrics have become tougher, fastenings have become more secure, and features have become more user-friendly. There’s a lot of choice available, so it can be hard to know what’s best.
Below are some of the best lightweight turnouts to consider for your horse or pony to wear throughout the year. Plus, we’ve included a handy Buyer’s Guide if you aren’t sure what you are looking for.
What is a Lightweight Turnout Rug?
Lightweight turnout rugs are thin, waterproof horse rugs that typically have 0g or 50g of filling. Similar to a raincoat, but for your horse, they are designed to provide your horse with protection from the elements without too much insulation or added warmth. Specifically, these horse rugs are ideal for putting on when rain is forecast, ensuring your horse stays dry. They are also popular for hardy horses to wear through the winter or for sensitive horses during cooler summer nights.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for When Buying Lightweight Turnout Rugs
Denier
Denier refers to the thickness and strength of the outer fabric used to make the rug. In other words, it’s a unit of measurement that indicates the fibre density in the material. It’s a unit of measurement that indicates the fibre density in the material – essentially, how tough the rug is. Usually, the higher the denier rating, the thicker, stronger, and more durable the material is. Common denier ratings for turnout rugs include:
- 600D – Light to medium strength. Suitable for horses in a field alone or for short-term use.
- 1200D – On the other hand, the 1200D material is an ideal all-around choice.
- 1680D (and over) – Extremely tough. Popular for horses turned out in groups, and those known as ‘rug-wreckers!’
Additionally, it is worth noting that some brands use a Ripstop weave for the outer fabric of their turnout rugs. This weave is a reinforcement that makes fabric resistant to tearing and ripping by crosshatching the fibres during manufacturing.
Neck Type
There are three types of neck types to choose from on turnout rugs, each designed for different weather conditions and horse needs. Standard neck rugs end at the base of the neck. They don’t provide any protection over the mane and neck area and can be less restrictive than other neck styles.
A combo neck (also known as a ‘full,’ ‘all-in-one’, or ‘integrated’ neck) is a built-in neck cover that is permanently joined to the main body of the turnout rug, providing extra coverage and warmth. Giving extra coverage, this neck style is great for cold, windy, or wet weather and is often favoured for the fully clipped horse.
Finally, a detachable neck is the most versatile design. This is a separate neck cover that secures to a turnout rug with clips or Velcro, so it can be easily taken off as needed. Perfect for changeable weather, a detachable neck gives one rug multiple options.
Extra Features
Besides countering the elements, a lightweight turnout rug must also stay in place throughout wear, ensuring your horse’s comfort. Look for different front rug fastenings and the option to add leg straps instead of a tail cord. It is also worth considering whether or not the rug has shoulder gussets. The design adds triangular or darted pieces of fabric to the shoulder area of the rug, allowing extra freedom of movement.
If you are turning your horse out in the field overnight, reflective details are another bonus.
Lightweight Turnout Rugs
We review the best lightweight turnout rugs for 2025—so ensure a good fit, as your horse will wear it often. Each brand fits differently, so take time to find the rug that suits your horse’s shape and needs. Below, we’ve compiled a list of our top turnout rugs for your horse to wear through the spring, summer, and beyond:
Shires Tempest Original Air Motion 0g Combo Turnout Rug
Designed for comfort in warm yet wet conditions, this turnout rug from Shires boasts an array of functional features. Its integrated neck, taped seams, and waterproof 600 denier ripstop outer effectively keep rain at bay. The rug features an Air Motion lining—3D mesh that wicks heat and moisture, therefore creating a cool, breathable microclimate for comfort. Plus, you can upgrade the warmth of this Shires rug using one of their separate WarmaRug liners.
Kentucky All-Weather Waterproof Pro 0g Turnout Rug
The Kentucky All Weather Pro Rug’s prowess comes from its luxurious faux rabbit fur lining. This makes the rug perfect for sensitive horses and also works as an extra isolating layer to keep heat in. This Kentucky rug features tough 1680D fabric and PU waterproof coating, ideal for unpredictable spring turnout in any weather.
QHP Collection 0g Fleece Lined Turnout Rug
With a fleece lining for extra comfort, the QHP Collection lightweight turnout rug is ideal for sensitive horses who need an additional layer to protect against the wind and rain. The 600 denier outer boasts a 3000mm waterproof rating, and the generous tail flap provides even more coverage. Inside the rug is a super soft fleece lining to maximise comfort and reduce the risk of rubbing. The rug is finished with two front clip closures with buckle adjustments and a carefully positioned shoulder gusset.
Rambo Optimo Plus 0g Turnout Rug
Boasting an impressive 10-year guarantee on waterproofness, breathability, and hardware, this is a lightweight turnout you can truly depend on! The Rambo Optimo’s Articulated Pivotal darts follow your horse’s movements; this unique design detail includes a carefully positioned dart above and behind the shoulders to allow your horse an exceptional range of movement while preventing the rug from pulling forward or slipping.
The exterior of this Rambo lightweight turnout rug is a tough 1000D Ballistic Nylon, and the rug is also equipped with a detachable neck cover for extra protection when it’s ‘hood on’ weather. The Optimo Turnout also has carefully placed loops to allow you to secure Optimo Liners inside for extra warmth when the temperatures drop.
LeMieux Arika Ripstop 600D 50g Detachable Neck Turnout Rug
Part of LeMieux’s popular Arika Collection and available for this season in a luscious lagoon colour, this 50g LeMieux rug is engineered with a two-part patented system to increase freedom of movement when grazing. It features an angled front closure and unique buckle, which helps balance pressure and reduce rubbing on shoulders and chest. The main body of the rug is cut from a waterproof and breathable 600D ripstop material which, combined with the 50g of thermobonded fibrefill, provides superb protection from bad weather. In addition to these features, this LeMieux lightweight turnout rug is compatible with Arika rug liners, so you can adjust the weight depending on the weather.
WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Tyro 50g Standard Neck Turnout Rug
A great all-rounder that blends functionality with comfort and performance. The WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Tyro Turnout Rug is engineered with a 600 denier ripstop outer, 50g polyfill and a smooth 210 denier lining.
This rug’s 3-year warranty on hardware, waterproofness and breathability is another attractive feature, plus WeatherBeeta’s fun new print for this spring and summer certainly gets our seal of approval!
Additionally, If you require more understanding on Weatherbeeta Turnout Rug Warranties, please take a look at our very informative blog HERE. Detailing everything you need to know.
Amigo Ripstop 900D 0g Turnout Rug
The Ripstop 900D Turnout Rug replaces Amigo’s popular Hero 600D range. This updated style is equipped with a tough 600D polyester Ripstop exterior, offering excellent waterproof and breathable properties. With fixings to attach a neck cover (available separately), this affordable lightweight turnout combines comfort, versatility and performance in one reliable rug design.
Turnout Rugs Specifically for Ponies
When it comes to keeping your equine friend warm and comfortable, choosing the right rug size is essential—even for ponies! Pony-specific turnout rugs are designed with proportionally smaller necklines and shorter drops compared to standard horse rugs. While a normal horse rug might seem like it could work, they often end up too long, too deep, or ill-fitting around the shoulders, leading to discomfort, restricted movement, and rubbing.
Nowadays, most brands offer a ‘pony specific’ range of turnout rugs, so you can find the perfect one for your pony. Take a look at some of this season’s favourites below:
Bucas Freedom Pony 0g Standard Neck Turnout Rug
Designed with functionality and comfort as its priority, the Bucas Freedom Pony 0g Turnout Rug is a high-performing 600 denier rug at a reasonable price. To the front is Bucas’s unique T-bar front closure, which keeps the rug secure without the need for Velcro. Inside the rug is a silky Dermo-Care lining with wicking properties; this helps to dry the horse’s coat after washing or exercise, keeping the coat smooth and soft.
Saxon Lite 600D Combo 0g Pony Turnout Rug
Saxon equips this pony rug with a durable 600 denier outer, waterproof and breathable, plus an integrated neck with easy plastic ski buckles. The integrated neck easily fastens with plastic ski buckles, and the shoulder gussets allow flexibility to graze freely.
This Saxon rug is also available in a standard neck design – and there’s a matching fly mask, too!
Rhino Pony Plus Lite 0g Turnout Rug
Keep your pony dry and comfortable with confidence in the Rhino Pony Plus Lite Turnout.
Equipped with AquaTrans technology and a 1000D polypropylene outer, this rug protects the waterproof and breathable barrier underneath. It offers a stronger alternative to polyester turnouts and features an anti-static, anti-bacterial shine-enhancing lining. Compatible with Horseware’s Liner System and complete with a detachable neck cover, the Rhino Pony Plus Lite 0g Turnout Rug would be a reliable choice for any pony to wear in the field.
Choosing the right turnout rug can make a world of difference in your horse’s comfort and well-being—whether you’re dealing with unpredictable spring showers or cold winter winds. With so many options in styles, weights, and fits, it’s all about finding what suits your horse best.
Need some further advice? Our knowledgeable team has years of hands-on experience working with horses of all types and are always here to help. If you’re unsure which rug is right for your horse, get in touch with us today. We’re happy to offer friendly, expert advice to help you find the perfect fit for your four-legged friend. Simply email [email protected], call 01803 812040, or pop into our Totnes Store.
