Equestrian equipment can be very expensive. Many owners are on a budget and need to be careful about what they buy. They are always looking for good quality items at reasonable prices. On of the most popular ways to shop today is to go on line. People can find just about anything they want and also do some comparison shopping to secure the very best deals.

Although shopping on line is a very common choice, some people still like to visit their local tack store. They may have built up a good working relationship with the owners and staff over many years. They can also ask question and really look at the products to see which they like best. This is very important, especially when buying big ticket items such as horse rugs and saddlery.

During the winter months horses grow long thick winter coats to protect themselves from the weather. It is quite amazing how effective these coats are at keeping them dry and warm. Horses can winter out in extremely low temperatures, as long as they are not sick or very old. However, horses that are being exercised or shown will need to have their winter coat removed.

For decades horse clothing was very difficult to take care of. An out door rug was heavy and practically impossible to wash. Within a matter of months the water proofing was gone and it would start to leak. Owners and their animals had no alternatives to choose from and were basically stuck with these ineffective and often uncomfortable blankets.

It has only been in the past ten years or so that some innovative companies have really gone back to the drawing board and redesigned equine clothing from the ground up. Some of the best new features are nylon rugs that are very easy to care for. They can be machine washed and dried and are very light weight.

Winter blankets are a lot more substantial. Modern technology has really had a profound impact on horse clothing. The new line of equine clothing utilizes all the latest trends. The fabrics are water resistant and wind proof. They are also coated with a rip stop material that helps to stop annoying snags and tears.

The new line of turn out blankets are available in either shower or water proof. The shower proof are for horses that are only turned out for a few hours each day and can be brought in if the weather gets bad. However, an animal that lives out all the time will need a much higher degree of weather protection.

A good quality rug will protect the animal in even the worst weather. They also come with detachable hoods that cover the entire neck and really help to keep a horse in show condition throughout the winter. Many riders still like to compete in the winter indoor circuit and need their animals to look good.