Horse Rug Size Guide: How to Measure & Fit a Rug (UK)

Why the Right Horse Rug Size Matters

A correctly sized rug does four important jobs:

• Comfort — it sits cleanly on the horse's body without slipping or pulling, letting them move freely.
• Prevents rubbing and sores — a poor fit causes friction at the shoulders and withers, which can quickly lead to hair loss and open sores.
• Better warmth and protection — full coverage keeps your horse dry and shielded from wind, rain and cold.
• Fewer returns — measuring properly the first time saves you time, postage and hassle.

UK horse rug sizes are measured in feet and inches (and their metric equivalent in centimetres). You will need a soft measuring tape and a helper if possible.

1. Stand your horse square on level ground.

2. Place one end of the tape at the centre of the chest, where the neck meets the body.

3. Run the tape along the side of the horse, keeping it parallel to the ground.

4. Finish at the point of the buttock (the outside edge of the hindquarter).

5. Read the measurement in feet and inches — this is your rug size.

Tip: if your horse measures between two sizes, size up. This is especially true for winter rugs, which are bulkier and sit slightly tighter.

Horse Rug Size Chart (UK)

Use the table in this horse rug size guide as a starting point. Actual fit varies slightly by breed, build and brand — always measure your horse rather than relying on height alone.

Masterclip rugs are available in 5’6”, 5’9”, 6’0”, 6’3”, 6’6”, 6’9” and 7’0” — the core UK size range covering most horses from around 14hh upwards.

How to Fit a Horse Rug

Once you have the right measurement from this horse rug size guide, fitting the rug correctly is the next step.

1. Undo all fastenings: front chest straps, belly surcingles, leg straps (if fitted) and the tail strap or tail cord.

2. Fold the rug neatly so it is easy to place.

3. Stand beside your horse's shoulder — never directly in front or behind. Move calmly.

4. Place the rug slightly forward over the neck and withers, then slide it gently back into position so the hair lies flat.

5. Centre the rug on the back, with the front sitting comfortably at the chest.

6. Fasten the chest straps first. You should be able to slide a flat hand between the rug and the chest.

7. Fasten the belly surcingles. They should lie snug — about a flat hand's width between strap and belly — without hanging low.

8. Attach the tail strap.

9. Walk your horse a few steps and check for slipping, twisting or rubbing.

10. Re-check after 15–30 minutes of wear for any early signs of pressure points.

How Masterclip Rugs Fit

• True to Size: Masterclip rugs are manufactured in 3-inch increments (e.g., 5'6", 5'9", 6'0") and are designed to align with standard horse measurements, providing a standard, consistent fit.
• Secure & Ergonomic: The rugs feature adjustable chest fastenings and three surcingle’s, which help secure the rug and prevent it from slipping.
• Snugness: They are designed to sit securely around the neck and chest to prevent rain from entering, particularly with their 100g and 200g turnout range.

Designed for Specific Builds?

General Purpose: These rugs are designed for a standard, athletic horse shape but are versatile enough for varying builds due to their adjustability.

Adjustable Features: The chest area features adjustable fastenings, which allow for a tailored fit, accommodating horses that are slightly broader across the shoulders or chest.

Reduced Rubbing: They feature a "velvety soft" lining, which is particularly beneficial for horses with sensitive skin or those that have been clipped.

Advice if Between Sizes

• Size Up: The standard advice for Masterclip rugs, particularly for turnout rugs, is that if your horse is between sizes, it is better to go up a size.
• Consider the Neck: For a horse that is in between sizes, choosing the larger size ensures that there is enough length and coverage, particularly if the horse has a broad shoulder or high withers.
• Exceptions: If the horse is very narrow-chested or petite, you may want to stick to the smaller size.

• Hair rubbed away at the shoulders or withers
• Rug slipping backwards or to one side
• Chest pulling tight or gaping
• Surcingles hanging too low
• Restricted movement at the shoulder

Fit and Sizing Notes by Brand

Horse rug sizing varies between brands — a 6’0” in one can fit like a 6’3” in another. Always cross-reference this horse rug size guide with brand-specific notes below:

• Horseware Ireland — true to size or slightly snug, suits broader horses.
• Premier Equine — generous; size down if between sizes.
• Bucas — suits narrower or longer-backed horses; "Big Neck" option for broad builds.
• Weatherbeeta — standard medium fit for average-shaped horses.
• Swish Equestrian — standard to generous, sits higher on the neck.
• Ponyo Horsewear — generous; size down if between sizes.

Masterclip Rug Sizing: Fit, Feel and Features

Masterclip rugs are manufactured in 3-inch increments and designed to align with standard UK measurements, so they sit true to size for most horses. Key features include:

• Secure, ergonomic fit — adjustable chest fastenings and three surcingles prevent slipping.
• Snug neck and chest — particularly on the 100g and 200g turnout range, to keep rain out.
• Velvety soft lining — reduces rubbing, ideal for clipped or sensitive horses.
• Versatile shape — built for an athletic standard horse but adjustable enough for broader or narrower builds.

If your horse is between sizes, we recommend sizing up — especially for turnouts, broad-shouldered horses and high-withered types. Very narrow-chested or petite horses should stick to the smaller size.

Browse the full Masterclip turnout rug collection →

Key Tips for Fitting Masterclip Rugs

Once you’ve used this horse rug size guide to find the right size, keep these practical fitting tips in mind:

• Measure from the centre of the chest to the end of the rump, parallel to the ground.
• Try the rug on over a clean sheet and leave tags attached until you are sure of the fit.
• Check the top chest buckle fastens comfortably with a little room for adjustment.
• Never kneel or crouch under the horse while fastening straps.
• Check rugs daily for damage and refit if they twist or shift.