Cooler or fleece rug
A cooler or fleece is a thin, breathable rug that dries a sweaty or wet horse.
What is it for?
The cooler wicks moisture after work or travel and keeps enough warmth that the horse does not chill while it dries.
How is it made?
A single layer of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, often fleece, with no fill. The weave draws moisture to the outside where it evaporates.
When do you use it?
After training, after a bath or during travel, and to keep a horse clean and dry. It is not a waterproof outdoor rug.
What to watch for in the fit
Use the rug as a temporary drying layer, not as an outdoor rug.
Make sure the rug stays in place while the horse moves.
Remove the rug once the horse is dry.
Take care
A cooler does not keep off rain and is not meant for prolonged outdoor use. It does not replace a turnout or stable rug.
What is it confused with?
- Anti-sweat rug
The classic anti-sweat rug is an open net that gives little warmth; a fleece cooler dries and keeps some warmth at the same time.
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Sources: British Horse Society · Horse & Hound. Descriptive and educational; not a substitute for advice from a vet or instructor.