You may have heard of a capsule wardrobe in the fashion world. Typically, a capsule wardrobe comprises a few mindfully chosen clothing items that work well together to create multiple outfits. Capsule wardrobes can be seasonal too with items rotated every few months to suit the weather.

As horse owners we can all be guilty of collecting too many rugs, tack and kit over the years. Creating a capsule wardrobe for your horse has several benefits:

• Easier to store and access the items you need day to day.
• Simpler decision making when it comes to which rug to put on your horse.
• Can last for many seasons when investing in a few durable items.
• Reduces the impact on the planet by purchasing fewer but higher quality items with a longer life span.

Rambo Protector

For fly protection season after season, the Rambo® Protector is a great choice. The innovative mesh fabric is self-repairing so will re-form back into its original structure if damaged from wear or rubbing. This makes it a popular option for horses that suffer with sweet itch as it can withstand your horse rubbing against surfaces while still offering maximum protection from flies.

Key features:

• V-front or disc-front closures depending on what suits your horse best.
• Detachable hood for maximum coverage.
• Supersized tail flap and extra depth to knee for increased protection.
• 65% UV protection and light coloured fabric to reflect the sun’s rays.
• Compatible with the Horseware Waterproof Fly Sheet Liner - ideal for spring showers.

Amigo AmECO Combi

New for this season, the Amigo® AmECO Combi is a super versatile rug. Designed for changeable weather conditions, it provides fly and UV protection while also keeping your horse dry and comfortable. The rug has a waterproof top section with mesh sides to prevent overheating.

If you’re looking to reduce your carbon hoofprint, the AmECO range is made from recycled plastic bottles.

Key features:

• Disc-front closure to reduce pressure and shoulder rubs.
• Large, detachable hood for versatility.
• Waterproof top section with 100% UV protection.
• Extra-long waterproof tail flap for additional protection.
• Extended belly coverage with three straight surcingles.

Amigo AmECO Bug Buster

The eco-conscious equestrian will love the Amigo® AmECO Bug Buster. Each standard sized rug is constructed from 149 recycled plastic bottles. This process uses less water and chemicals, plus it produces 65% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the production of virgin polyester yarns.

Key features:

• Classic cut neck with straight front closure.
• Detachable hood to suit different weather conditions.
• Shine enhancing shoulder, mane and tail flap lining to promote a healthy coat while preventing rubbing.
• Soft, breathable and sustainable fabric with strong sun reflecting properties for UV protection.
• Deep cut with extra long tail flap for maximum protection.
• Can be paired with the Horseware Waterproof Fly Sheet Liner during wet weather.
• Extremely lightweight material for warmer climates

Amigo 3-in-1 CamoFly Sheet

Unpredictable summer rain showers can make it tricky to know whether to use a lite weight turnout rug or a fly sheet. A hybrid fly sheet like the Amigo® 3-in-1 CamoFly Sheet solves this problem, making it a great choice for a Summer Capsule Wardrobe. The waterproof top section combined with breathable mesh side panels means your horse will be protected from both the rain and flies without overheating.

This rug uses a monochromatic pattern which is designed to camouflage horses from flies and bugs. Horseware Ireland’s CamoFly technology is based on research which suggests a zebra’s stripes are a natural fly deterrent. The stripes confuse the flies which makes it difficult for them to determine where to land. By implementing this optical illusion in the rug fabric, flies are deterred from landing on your horse.

Key features:

• Disc-front closure to reduce pressure and shoulder rubs.
• Hood can be removed depending on the horse’s needs.
• Promotes a healthy coat and prevents rubbing thanks to a shine enhancing lining.
• Unique camouflage pattern to deter flies and insects.
• Breathable and waterproof while still providing UV protection.

Rambo Fly Mask and Boots

To complement your horse’s fly sheet, consider adding a fly mask or boots to your horse’s wardrobe. These can help provide additional protection from biting insects as well as the sun’s harmful rays.

The Rambo® Plus Flymask is durable yet comfortable for long-lasting fly and UV protection.

Key features:

• Insert to protect the delicate eye area.
• Soft fleece binding to reduce the risk of rubbing.
• Detachable nose piece.
• Adjustable, elastic closure for optimum fit.
• Offers UV protection.

For horses that are very sensitive to flies or the sun, adding fly boots to their wardrobe can be helpful. The Rambo® Tech-Fit Flyboot has a hybrid shape which combines fabrics for advanced fly protection.

Key features:

• Reaches the knees/hocks for maximum coverage.
• Top section is a funnel shape to deter insects, particularly during movement. The fabric is breathable and flexible yet still durable.
• Lower section is made of 3D airmesh for a close fit and excellent coverage.
• Velcro closures for quick, easy fitting.
• 90% UV protection.

A thoughtfully curated summer capsule wardrobe should meet your horse’s needs for the season, last for years to come, and make life easier day to day. What will be in your horse’s capsule wardrobe?