Irelands High Performance Show Jumping Manager Jessica Kurten was satisfied with her teams performance at the Longines League of Nations in Abu Dhabi this evening but feels there is improvement needed after a sixth-place finish.Having been well positioned for a repeat of their 2025 win here in the opening leg of the prestigious series on a flawless zero score at the break, things slightly unravelled in round two as the Irish team of Trevor and Shane Breen, Niamh McEvoy and Mikey Pender finished on a total of 20 faults.Kurten described her pride in her team, particularly in round one, and will take plenty of positives despite the final tally.She said: The Longines League of Nations today was like many weve seen over the years and I was proud of, and delighted with, Niamh and Olympic GL FVD, who gave an excellent performance to jump clear on their five star team debut.Shane was also very solid in round one with a great clear on BP Arctic Blue, while Trevor and Highland President did what they do in these competitions. They were brilliant.We decided not to use Mikey to save his horse to be fresh for the second round after those three clears, but Ive been involved in these competitions now for so long on commentary that Im more than aware that the first round is only a qualifier for the second round.Going in on a zero score was obviously an advantage, but so much changes in the second round that you should never get too excited.All-in-all I was very happy with the performance of the riders, but not too excited about the result. Highland President was very tired in the second round and Trevor felt that he overcompensated for that and it may have caused the two mistakes.Shanes horse is very young at this level first time around he jumped very easily but had two green mistakes in the second round. Were going to see a lot more of him in the future when he gets more experience and Shane was delighted with the performance of his horse.Mikey went in and gave it a great try with HHS Los Angeles and I really believe if wed been in a winning position, he wouldve jumped clear. Its quite difficult going in there in a situation where you know that youre a little bit down the leaderboard and trying to produce that clear round but I was very happy with Mikey and his performance. I felt HHS Los Angeles jumped very well, even with one pole down.We finished sixth overall, which is a safe result in the League of Nations series, but we need to improve in Ocala. We will be debriefing after this together and taking lots of positives, as well as discussing the negatives, and will aim to iron them out for the next leg.It was a baptism of fire for Irelands new manager, with a League of Nations leg so early into her tenure, but Kurten is excited to be back in the fold.It was a thrill for me to be part of the Irish team again, especially in the League of Nations series, which proves to be so exciting with the three scores counting in the second round. It wasnt the result we wanted but we will lick our woods and its onwards and upwards.Trevor Breen and Highland President were a standout combination of global Nations Cup competition in 2025, maintaining a 100 per cent clear rate in team competition with three double clear efforts including in last years win here in Abu Dhabi.As Irelands pathfinders, Breen and Highland President couldnt have been better to kick the competition off, posting yet another clear round to give Kurtens team the perfect start. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Horse Sport Ireland (@horsesportireland)McEvoy, one of the most decorated athletes across youth championships in Europe was next in for Ireland with Olympic GL FVD and the 21-year-old Tyrone woman showed why so much faith has been placed in her with another magnificent clear round on her Longines League of Nations debut.She couldnt hide her delight with Ollie after jumping the last to secure the clear round, with her smile lighting up the magnificent Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club as Ireland remained perfect through their first two combinations.Shane Breen, himself making a first appearance in the Longines League of Nations, ensured his team would go into round two with a zero score after BP Arctic Blue, recent four star World Cup winner, made it look easy with a third clear in as many rounds.Kurten had the luxury of going without Pender and HHS Los Angeles (ISH) in round one with Irelands score was perfect, meaning the team would jump last of the remaining eight nations in the second round as one of just two teams on a zero score, alongside France.It was the Breen brothers and Pender who would line up as Irelands trio in round two with all scores counting, leave little room for error.Trevor Breen had a desperately unlucky eight faults with Highland President to open up second time around and with clears for Germany, UAE and France, there was work to do to claw back the lead.The second round, with alterations made at the break and Shane Breen replicated brother Trevors score of eight faults with Arctic Blue BP as Ireland lay in fifth place on 16 faults with Pender to come for the first time.With a podium out of reach, Pender guided HHS Los Angeles around the tricky second round course for just four faults as Ireland finished on an overall total of 20 in sixth position of the 11 nations.The post Sixth for Ireland in opening leg of 2026 Longines League of Nations, Abu Dhabi appeared first on .

HSI has received 5963 applications and issued 5116 completed applications for foals born in 2025.5958 pedigree applications have had their foal kit sent to the applicant, with the remainder issued imminently.It is important to note that, to date, only 447 foal kits have not been yet returned from breeders to HSI for pedigree applications, which is 8 per cent of all applications.This figure is testament to breeders who continue to work efficiently on their breeding decisions.Of the 5511 applications who have returned their foal kits to HSI, 5271 have been completed and the passport issued, and 76 are currently undergoing quality control checks, while the remaining 164 applications DNA samples are currently with the laboratory for analysis.Of the 5347 passport applications, where the DNA samples have been returned to HSI from the laboratory, 99 per cent are processed and complete, totalling 5271.The remaining applications are pending QC checks before being completed, and the team is working hard to complete them over the coming weeks.The post Updated figures of passport applications processed on Horse Source February 13th, 2026 appeared first on .

February 13, 2026 Ocala, FL Five-star competition continued on Friday, February 13, 2026, at World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) with Irish Olympian Shane Sweetnam capturing the win in the $62,500 Winning Round CSI5*-W class on Coriaan van Klapscheut Z, owned by Sweetnam and Voquest LLC. In the $32,000 Wild Horse Refuge Grand Prix Qualifier CSI2*, Erynn Ballard (CAN) blazed to her second winSource

Wilmington, Ohio A competitive field of professional athletes gathered in the R+L Arena at World Equestrian Center Wilmington (WEC) for the $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunter Derby during Winter Classic 10. No stranger to the winners circle, Kelsey Epperson rose to the top of the leaderboard aboard Naytraders LLCs Apache 286. Epperson admitted she was actually really nervousSource

Ocala, FL The seventh Hunter Derby Friday of the 2026 Winter Spectacular Series at World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) welcomed nearly 100 stunning hunters to Hunter 1 to compete in three exciting classes: the $20,000 Golden Ocala 36-39 Hunter Derby, the $15,000 UF Veterinary Hospital USHJA National 3 Open Hunter Derby, and the $15,000 USHJA National 3 Jr/Am Hunter Derby.Source

A Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Coach has been named TheSundayTimesGrassroots Sportswoman of the Year in recognition of her outstanding contribution to disabled people through sport.Natalie ORourke is the founder of South Londons Park Lane Stables RDA, where people of all abilities are helped to develop physically and emotionally through equestrian activities.Im totally overwhelmed to have won, she said. The other nominees are incredible women carrying out amazing roles in their communities. This award is really for my team and for all the women within RDA who show up every day for others. Im so grateful my Dad could be with me; he was the first to put me on a pony and has supported my passion for horses my whole life. The sessions we run at Park Lane Stables RDA arent just about learning a skill theyre about creating moments of connection, and confidence, and a bit of pony magic that changes lives. Huge thanks to everyone who voted for me, and special thanks to those who believed in me from day one and continue to support me.Michael Bishop, Chief Executive Officer of RDA, applauded Natalies dedication to the cause.Her work exemplifies the absolute best of grassroots sport high-quality, inclusive delivery rooted in safe, supportive community environments where the humanhorse connection helps people build confidence, independence, and social connection, he said. This award recognises not only Natalies dedication, but the real difference she, her team and nearly 14,000 RDA volunteers make to the lives of disabled people and their families. Across the UK, RDA supports 39,000 disabled people every year, and this recognition highlights how national impact is driven by skilled grassroots leaders, like Natalie, who bring our mission to life in local communities every day.Related contentSpot signs of anxiety in your horse using the traffic light system and improve your bondGroundwork exercises for horses to build trustHere comes the rein again: Learning to ride as an adult *PROMOTION*Hacking lessons: Should you give them a go?The post A bit of pony magic can change lives: RDA coach namedGrassroots Sportswoman of the Year appeared first on Your Horse.

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Unsure whether to ride in a snaffle or a doubleand how to fit it so your marks go up, not down? This UK-focused guide nails the latest rules and fit tips, from snaffles required at Preliminary/Novice to doubles at FEI PSG/GP, plus easy checks2 fingers at the browband, 4 at the throatlatchso you stay compliant, comfortable, and confident. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Competition bridle choice What To Do: Use a snaffle at Preliminary and Novice; from Elementary to Grand Prix nationally choose snaffle or double to suit training, and use a double for FEI PSG and GP unless rules change. Why It Matters: Matches tack to rules and your horses way of going, protecting welfare and scores. Common Mistake: Assuming a double is mandatory at UK national ElementaryGP or switching before the basics are secure. Area: FEI change watch What To Do: Check FEI updates on the proposed trial making doubles optional up to CDI3*/CDIO3*; confirm the current status on schedules and the FEI rulebook before entering. Why It Matters: Ensures you enter compliant and lets you choose the bridle that best suits your horse when options exist. Common Mistake: Believing proposals apply now at all FEI levels, including World Cup and CDI4*/5*. Area: Noseband legality What To Do: With a snaffle use cavesson, drop or flash; with a double use a plain cavesson only, and remove any flash or grackle for dressage. Why It Matters: The wrong noseband risks elimination and discomfort. Common Mistake: Keeping a flash attachment on when moving to a double. Area: Eventing allowances What To Do: In British Eventing dressage, grackles are allowed and discreet poll/headpiece padding is permitted; always check your specific level in the current rulebook. Why It Matters: Using eventing-specific allowances can improve comfort without breaking rules. Common Mistake: Adding padding to cheek pieces or the front of the noseband, which is not permitted. Area: Bridle fit basics What To Do: Sit the browband about an inch below the ears with two fingers clearance; set cheek buckles level with the eye, leave four fingers under the throatlatch, and check sliphead points on a double. Why It Matters: Correct fit minimises pressure and maximises stability. Common Mistake: Browband too short pulling the headpiece onto the ears. Area: Switching to double What To Do: Introduce over 34 weeks, riding mostly from the bridoon at first with a neutral curb, and use only a cavesson noseband; reassess poll/ear comfort after each ride. Why It Matters: A steady transition prevents resistance and protects soft tissues. Common Mistake: Using the curb to fix contact issues or rushing the change. Area: Welfare checks What To Do: Weekly, run fingers under headpiece and sliphead for heat or swelling, lift the browband to test movement, and watch for head-shyness, ear pinning or reluctance to flex; adjust fit or revert to snaffle if needed. Why It Matters: Early action stops minor pressure points becoming injuries. Common Mistake: Ignoring small behaviour changes around bridling in cold, wet weather. Area: Pre-ring checklist What To Do: Confirm legal bridle and noseband for your class, reins go direct to your hands (no roundings/couplings/bit guards), spurs no more than 2.5 cm and pointing back; recheck fit with plaits and winter layers. Why It Matters: Last-minute compliance and comfort checks prevent penalties and tension. Common Mistake: Overlooking reins legality or forgetting to re-loosen the throatlatch for thicker necks. In This Guide The rules at a glance (UK and FEI) Snaffle or double which, and when? Nosebands and padding: what is legal? How to fit a bridle correctly: poll, browband, cheeks, throatlatch Switching to a double: step-by-step Welfare first: spot and prevent pressure points Kit that keeps you compliant and comfortable Competition-day checklist (UK dressage and eventing) Dressage rules and bridle fit are changing fast, and what you put on your horses head has direct consequences for both scores and welfare. Heres the up-to-date, UK-focused guidance you can act on today.Key takeaway: In UK dressage, a snaffle is required at Preliminary and Novice, with snaffle or double allowed from Elementary upwards nationally; FEI still mandates doubles at Prix St Georges and Grand Prix, while a proposed FEI trial would make doubles optional up to CDI3* to prioritise welfare and rider choice.The rules at a glance (UK and FEI)At UK national level, snaffles are mandatory at Preliminary and Novice; snaffle or double is permitted from Elementary to Grand Prix, while FEI Prix St Georges and Grand Prix require doubles.Thats your baseline for planning training and competition tack. Internationally, the FEI currently mandates double bridles at CDI3*, CDI4*, CDI5* and World Cup events. However, a formal FEI proposal would allow riders to choose either a snaffle or double at grand prix level up to and including CDI3* and CDIO3* as part of a data-gathering welfare trial. As the FEI Dressage Technical Committee put it:The dressage technical committee (DTC) and the working group have considered the level of expertise required to use the double bridle and conclude that the choice of using either a snaffle or double bridle at grand prix level should be permitted up to and including CDI3* and CDIO3* events.Source: Horse & Hound reporting on the FEI proposal. Feedback on these changes is due in 2025, with practical implications for UK riders targeting international qualifiers.For eventers, British Eventing permits double bridles in the dressage phase from Intermediate Novice upward. Always cross-check your specific level in the current rulebook before you load the lorry.Snaffle or double which, and when?Use a snaffle at Preliminary and Novice; from Elementary to Grand Prix nationally you may choose either, but expect a double for FEI Prix St Georges and Grand Prix unless the FEIs CDI3* trial is adopted.Practically, most UK riders introduce the double around ElementaryMedium once the horse is reliably accepting the contact, straight, and through. If youre schooling toward FEI classes, plan a gradual, well-supervised transition so the curb isnt compensating for gaps in basics. This is about clarity and welfare as much as compliance.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend you map bridle choice to your competition calendar. If your next 612 months are national classes to Medium, a well-fitted snaffle may keep training honest. Preparing for PSG? Build the double in slowly at home first, then at training shows, monitoring your horses poll and ear comfort week by week.Nosebands and padding: what is legal?In dressage, a noseband is compulsory: cavesson, drop or flash with a snaffle; cavesson only with a double; grackles are not allowed in dressage but are permitted in eventing.That single sentence covers many queries on the warm-up track. If you move from a snaffle with a flash to a double, you must swap to a plain cavesson. For eventers, British Eventing allows grackle nosebands in the dressage phase, and it explicitly permits discreet padding on the headpiece/poll area, while padding on cheek pieces and the front of the noseband is not allowed. This distinction matters for horses with fine skin at the poll or those who become sensitive in cold, wet weather.Two more essentials:Reins must make direct contact with your hands no pelham roundings or couplings in dressage, and no bit guards.Choose legal, plain decoration: a simple, non-contact leather browband is always safe and smart.Quick tip: If youre transitioning to a double and your horse goes better with a broader headpiece, consider anatomical headpieces with discreet poll padding to spread pressure legal in eventing and a sensible welfare choice for everyday schooling.How to fit a bridle correctly: poll, browband, cheeks, throatlatchFit the headpiece so the split with the browband sits just below the ears, keep two fingers between browband and forehead, align cheek piece buckles with the eye corner, and allow four fingers under the throatlatch.Those are the quick checks that prevent most pressure problems. The poll and ears are among the most sensitive areas of your horses head, and UK welfare guidance is unequivocal about how to protect them. Dr Rachel Murray (formerly Animal Health Trust), who helped develop evidence-based bridle fit resources, sums up the goal:Bridle fit guidelines emphasise the two main aims of good bridle design and fit: Minimising pressure; Maximising stability.Source: World Horse Welfare: Bridles how to choose and fit them correctly.Heres the fit sequence we coach riders to use in the yard:Headpiece and browband: Sit the browband about an inch below the base of the ears so it doesnt pull the headpiece forward. If your horse objects to having ears threaded, build the bridle on the head place the headpiece, then attach browband and cheek pieces in situ.Cheek pieces: The straps should run parallel to the facial crest without twisting; aim to have the buckles level with the outer corner of the eye for both stability and neatness.Throatlatch: Looseness matters. You want four fingers clearance between strap, cheek and throat so the horse can flex and breathe easily.Stability test: Slide two fingers between browband and forehead; it should neither pinch nor gape. Check theres no pinching under the narrow sliphead sections on a double.As Horse & Countrys fitting guide puts it, If its too low, it will put pressure on the back of the ears... Browband should sit around an inch below the ears. Source: Horse & Country TV bridle types and fitting. This aligns neatly with British dressage turnout standards and the comfort-first ethos shared by the BHS and BEVA-aligned welfare advice in the UK.Pro tip: Do your final fit check with your competition plaits in. A raised crest can slightly alter browband tension and cheek piece alignment.Switching to a double: step-by-stepIntroduce the double gradually at Elementary and above, use a cavesson noseband only, and monitor for poll or ear sensitivity such as head-tossing, head-shyness, or ear pinning.Heres a simple four-week plan you can adapt with your coach:Week 1: Ride one or two short schools in the double, mostly on the bridoon; keep curb rein neutral. Check poll and ear comfort immediately after, and again the next day.Week 2: Add transitions within the pace on light curb contact. Reassess headpiece position to ensure the split still sits just behind the ears without pressure.Week 3: Introduce lateral work youll need for your target tests. If you see early signs of resistance to flexion, drop back to snaffle schooling for a ride or two and reassess fit.Week 4: Replicate a test at home. Keep the curb influence subtle; the double refines, it doesnt replace basics.Signs to pause and review fit include head-shyness when bridling, reluctance to lower the poll, ear pinning, and a sudden change in contact acceptance. These are classic red flags for poll pressure or pinch points fix the cause, dont fight the symptom.Remember, the FEIs active discussion on making doubles optional to CDI3* is rooted in rider choice and horse welfare. You can read the FEI-sourced summary via Horse & Hound; use that context to choose the bridle that truly supports your horses way of going, not just convention.Welfare first: spot and prevent pressure pointsPrioritise poll and ear comfort by minimising pressure and maximising stability, and watch for behavioural signs like head-shyness, resistance to flexion, and ear pinning.UK winters are hard on thin-skinned areas: cold rain, clipped coats, and thicker turnout rugs can make the poll region extra sensitive. World Horse Welfares guidance developed with input from Dr Rachel Murray emphasises a design-and-fit approach that spreads load and avoids movement that rubs. Read more here: World Horse Welfare bridle fit advice.Apply these welfare-led checks weekly:Run fingers under the headpiece and sliphead after schooling; no heat, swelling or flinching is acceptable.Lift the browband gently: if the headpiece moves forward, its too tight or the browband is too short.Observe bridling behaviour: if ears are harder to thread in winter, build the bridle on the head to avoid tugging sensitive cartilage.Swap to discreetly padded anatomical headpieces if your horse is narrow behind the ears; in eventing, this is permitted on the poll area but not cheek pieces.Quick tip: Keep the bridle clean and supple to reduce friction. A weekly routine with the right leather care tools pays for itself in comfort and longevity youll find all the essentials in our grooming and leather care collection.Kit that keeps you compliant and comfortableChoose an anatomical headpiece for poll relief, a FEI-legal double with cavesson for advanced work, a versatile snaffle for early levels, and measuring tools to nail fit first time.Here are smart, rule-aware picks our UK customers rate highly:Anatomical headpieces (poll relief): Ideal when moving from snaffle to double or for fine-skinned horses, typically 50150. Look for discreet padding over the poll, wide ear cut-outs, and stable cheek strap angles. Many popular models from brands like LeMieux balance pressure well without bulk.Double bridles with cavesson nosebands: For FEI-compliant advanced dressage, expect 100300. Confirm you can remove any flash attachments when you switch to the double to stay legal.Snaffle bridles (with flash or drop options): Perfect through Novice and into Elementary if youre keeping things simple and correct, around 40120.Fit aids: Simple measuring tools and poll protectors (1050) help you set the headpiece height accurately and spot asymmetry between left and right cheek pieces.Competition-safe browbands: Plain leather or modest, non-contact designs (2080) keep you inside the rules while adding a tidy finish.Round off your turnout so the only thing judges notice is your horses way of going:Safety first with a PAS-compliant hat from our curated riding helmets collection.Stay comfortable in the saddle with supportive riding boots and polished, functional competition clothing.Protect legs in schooling with correctly fitted horse boots and bandages that wont interfere with movement.If winters closing in, keep muscles warm before and after work with the right layers from our winter turnout rugs range to maintain comfort around the poll and neck between sessions.At Just Horse Riders, we hand-pick kit that respects British Dressage, British Eventing, and FEI expectations while putting welfare first because comfortable horses go better, full stop.Competition-day checklist (UK dressage and eventing)Check spur length (no more than 2.5cm), confirm reins run directly to your hands with no couplings or bit guards, and ensure the correct noseband for your bridle choice.Run this rapid pre-ring check so you can focus on the job:Bridle choice: Snaffle for Prelim/Novice; snaffle or double at Elementary+ nationally; double required at FEI PSG and GP (watch FEI updates on optional doubles to CDI3*).Noseband legality: Snaffle cavesson, drop, or flash. Double cavesson only. No grackles in dressage; grackles allowed in eventing.Padding placement: Discreet poll/headpiece padding OK in British Eventing; not on cheek pieces or front of noseband.Reins: Direct contact only; no pelham roundings, no bit guards in dressage.Spurs: Max 2.5cm from the boot, shanks pointing backward, no sharp edges.Fit: Two fingers at browband, four under throatlatch, cheek buckles level with the eye. Headpiece/browband junction just below the ears.Weather tweaks: In cold, wet UK conditions, loosen the throatlatch a hole for thicker necks under rugs, and recheck poll comfort if your horse has been wearing heavier layers.Pro tip: Warm up in a cooler or neck rug if its raw outside, then remove before you go in a comfortable topline reduces tension through the poll and contact. Keep a clean rub-free coat with a pre-competition tidy-up from our grooming essentials.FAQsWhen must I switch from snaffle to double in UK dressage?At UK national level, you dont have to switch snaffles are required at Preliminary and Novice, and you can choose snaffle or double from Elementary to Grand Prix. FEI Prix St Georges and Grand Prix currently require doubles.Are double bridles becoming optional in international dressage?The FEI has proposed allowing riders to choose a snaffle or a double up to CDI3* and CDIO3* to gather data on welfare and rider choice. Read the summary via Horse & Hound. National UK rules are unchanged as of now.What are the signs my bridle is causing poll pressure?Look for head-shyness when bridling, ear pinning, head-tossing, reluctance to flex, heat or sensitivity under the headpiece, and sudden changes in contact. Refit so the headpiece sits just behind the ears, adjust browband length, and consider an anatomical headpiece to spread pressure.Can I use an anatomical bridle like a Micklem with a double?No. With a double bridle you must use a cavesson noseband only; no Micklem, grackle, flash, or drop in dressage. For eventing, check your level-specific rules.Is padding allowed on the bridle?British Eventing allows discreet padding on the headpiece/poll but not on cheek pieces or the front of the noseband. This can help distribute load at the poll, especially on fine-skinned horses.How tight should the throatlatch be?Allow four fingers between the throatlatch, cheek and throat to preserve breathing and flexion. In winter, when necks are fuller under rugs, double-check you havent over-tightened it.What else should I check before I go down the centre line?Ensure spurs are no longer than 2.5cm with shanks pointing backward, your reins run directly to your hands without couplings, and your browband and cheek piece placement pass the two-fingers/four-fingers fit tests. Dont forget your compliant hat and tidy turnout both easy wins via our helmet range and competition clothing. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Grooming KitShop Riding HelmetsShop Boots & BandagesShop Competition WearShop Turnout Rugs

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Sick of finding a soaked rug liner after a day in cold UK rain, even when your horse feels dry? Heres how to stop condensation with breathable waterproofs (3,000g/m+), daily withers checks around 3133C, and dehumidifier dryingso your horse stays comfortable and skin-healthy through 0.58C weather. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Condensation vs leak What To Do: After rain, lift rug edges; if the coat is dry but the liner is wet, treat it as condensation. Switch to a more breathable, higher-denier waterproof and recheck next wet day. Why It Matters: Correct ID fixes airflow issues instead of chasing a non-existent leak. Common Mistake: Assuming a soaked liner automatically means the rug is leaking. Area: Breathable waterproofs What To Do: Pick turnout rugs rated 3,000g/m+ with robust outers (1,200D1,680D+). Prioritise waterproofing and breathability over extra fill weight. Why It Matters: Adequate vapour transfer prevents water droplets forming on the liner in cold, damp air. Common Mistake: Buying by grams of fill and ignoring breathability ratings. Area: Daily withers check What To Do: Each day, run fingers over withers and shoulders; if clammy, remove and dry the rug immediately. Check early mornings when humidity peaks. Why It Matters: These hot spots reveal condensation before obvious sweat or rubbing. Common Mistake: Only looking for visible sweat or leaks and missing early dampness. Area: Temperature threshold What To Do: Keep withers skin below ~3133C in 68C weather; reduce layers or change rug if it rises. Use an underrug sensor if you can. Why It Matters: This is the range where moisture starts accumulating under light layers. Common Mistake: Relying on rectal temperature or breathing alone and missing localised heat. Area: Smart layering What To Do: Use the minimum layers; favour one breathable waterproof over stacked fleeces in 0.58C. After work, wick with a cooler, then switch to turnout once fully dry. Why It Matters: Excess layers trap heat and drive condensation at pressure points. Common Mistake: Piling on nonbreathable layers for warmth. Area: 0g sheets use What To Do: Reserve 0g rain sheets for light, short showers or warm horses; in sustained rain, move to a breathable mediumweight waterproof. Check the liner promptly after drizzle. Why It Matters: Light sheets can let cold rain through and trigger underrug condensation. Common Mistake: Leaving a horse out in prolonged UK rain in a 0g sheet. Area: Drying rugs right What To Do: Dry rugs in a dehumidified, ventilated space and brush off mud first. Avoid direct heaters and never rerug with a damp liner. Why It Matters: Dehumidifiers protect membranes, speed drying and prevent mould and skin issues. Common Mistake: Baking rugs over heaters or storing them even slightly damp. Area: Rotation & storage What To Do: Keep one rug on, one drying, one spare; store only when fully dry. Check fit daily to relieve pressure at withers and shoulders. Why It Matters: A ready dry spare prevents reusing damp rugs and reduces hotspot condensation. Common Mistake: Having no spare and rerugging with a wet, poorly fitting rug. In This Guide Why is my horses rug wet inside? What the science says about rug heat and moisture How to check for condensation and sweat daily Choose the right rug for wet UK weather Layering that works (not wets) Drying rugs properly in British conditions Signs your horse is overheating or chilled under a rug Your practical shopping checklist Wet UK weather can leave your horses rug soaked inside even when your horse feels dry and its not always a leak. In most cases, youre seeing condensation caused by trapped warmth and moisture meeting cold, damp air.Key takeaway: In British rain and 0.58C conditions, choose waterproof rugs with proven breathability (3,000g/m+), check the withers daily for damp at 3133C, and dry rugs with a dehumidifier not heaters to prevent condensation, skin issues, and mould.Why is my horses rug wet inside?Its usually condensation, not a leak: warm moisture from your horse meets a cold rug surface and turns to water on the liner when breathability is insufficient. Breathability ratings matter 3,000g/m means up to 3kg of vapour can pass through one square metre in 24 hours, helping prevent that internal sweat rain.Think of a horse as a steady heat source. When body heat and moisture cant escape fast enough, they move outward and condense on the cool inner face of the rug. This is common with 0g rain sheets in heavy or prolonged rain, where the British Horse Society warns that cold air meeting body heat forms condensation under the sheet and can even lower skin temperature if rain seeps through poor waterproofing. See the BHSs guidance on rugging for detail: Types of rugs and rugging a horse.Inappropriately rugging also flattens the hair, reducing your horses natural air-trapping insulation. If the rug gets wet, the hair cant stand up, skin oils wash away, and the microclimate under the rug swings from too warm to chillingly damp a perfect recipe for condensation, discomfort and skin issues.A 0g rain sheet can be a great choice in light rain, however, be conscious that in very poor weather, the rain is likely to seep through. When this happens, cold air meets heat from the horses body forming condensation under the rain sheet. British Horse Society (BHS Rugging Guidance)What the science says about rug heat and moistureRugs significantly raise skin surface temperature, increasing the risk of condensation in cold, damp air. Fleece rugs increased skin temperature by 11.2C at 0.54.5C ambient; light quilted rugs raised it by 15.8C in the same conditions, which can compromise natural thermoregulation.Research on rugging has quantified how much heat accumulates beneath different materials in cool weather. In one study, horses wearing fleece or light quilted rugs recorded the jumps above (compared to unrugged horses at 12.518.5C conditions), underscoring how quickly a rug can trap warmth when the air is cold and wet outside. Fly and sweet itch rugs increased skin temperature by an average 4.2C even within the horses thermoneutral zone (521C ambient). Those rises dont automatically mean harm but they do prime the liner for condensation when the outer fabric is cold and the air is humid.Although this study found sweet itch rugs had no impact on thermoregulation, I feel further research with a larger number of horses, in hotter weather conditions, with a mix of dark and light coloured sweet itch rugs is required before we can be certain there are no negative impacts on equine welfare. Kim McGilvray, researcher (Horses and People)At 68C typical for UK late autumn to early spring clipped, stabled horses wearing a fly rug plus 12 fleeces showed moisture accumulation under the rug when withers temperature reached 3133C. Importantly, no sweat was detectable on palpation and rectal temperature and respiratory rate didnt change, so you wont always see sweat, yet dampness is already forming at key pressure points like the withers. Thats the condensation sweet spot to watch.How to check for condensation and sweat dailyLift the rug and feel the withers and shoulders at least once a day; any dampness or warmth creeping up to 3133C means moisture is accumulating remove and dry the rug immediately. Even if your horse feels dry to the touch, a wet liner will flatten the coat and can irritate skin.Follow a quick daily routine during wet, cool spells:Slide your fingers over the withers and top of the shoulders the earliest hot spots and check for clamminess or a film of moisture.Lift the rug edges after rain; if the coat is dry but the liner is wet, you have condensation from insufficient breathability, not a leak. Swap to a more breathable, higher-denier rug.If you can, use a moisture/temperature sensor (e.g., Orscana-type under-rug devices) to track under-rug conditions in real time, especially for clipped or competition horses in variable UK weather.Hang any damp rug to dry straight away; dont re-rug a warm horse with a wet liner.When a horse is left in the cold with a wet rug, their natural temperature regulation can be put out of sync. The weight of the rug will prevent their hair standing up to create their insulated layer, and the natural oils that protect their skin from moisture can be washed away. Dantherm Group experts (Master the art of horse rug drying)Pro tip: At Just Horse Riders, we recommend noting the time of day you check. Many UK yards see early-morning damp under rugs because night air is coldest and most humid thats when condensation peaks.Choose the right rug for wet UK weatherPick waterproof, breathable turnout rugs rated at least 3,000g/m with higher-denier outers (ideally 1680D+) to block rain while letting heat and vapour out. Use 0g rain sheets only for light rain and short stints; in prolonged or heavy rain, step up denier and maintain breathability.In the UKs cold-and-damp months, you need a rug that resists saturation from the outside but breathes from the inside. Breathability ratings are your friend: 3,000g/m means up to 3kg of moisture can move through a square metre of fabric over 24 hours, reducing the risk of a sauna then drizzle effect under the liner. Higher-denier fabrics (the BHS recommends robust options for wet weather) also stand up better to driving rain and abrasion without choking off airflow.Start light and build only if your horse shows they need more warmth. Many horses do well in a medium-weight waterproof with proper breathability through 0.58C, but clipped or elderly horses may need careful layering. If youre shopping, explore our curated range of breathable waterproof turnout rugs for winter, and consider a stable option for dry indoor spells from our cosy stable rugs collection. For itchy types or mild days in the thermoneutral zone (521C), browse sweet itch and fly rugs with good airflow.Quick tip: If the horse is dry but your liner is soaked after a rainy hack or turnout, the rug didnt breathe enough for the conditions. Move to a higher-denier, breathable design and monitor the withers closely on the next wet day.Layering that works (not wets)Use the minimum number of layers needed and avoid stacking non-breathable fabrics; over-rugging drives the under-rug temperature up and encourages condensation. After exercise, wick first with a cooler, then change to your turnout once the coat is dry.Layering strategy for UK cold-and-wet:After work in the rain: use a wool or polar fleece cooler to wick moisture, then switch to your turnout once the coat is fully dry to prevent post-exercise chill from evaporation.In 0.58C with clipped horses: favour one well-designed, breathable waterproof over multiple fleeces beneath. Studies showed moisture forming under light layers at this temperature band once the withers hit 3133C.In persistent drizzle: a 0g sheet can be fine for short turnout if the horse runs warm, but change promptly if the liner feels clammy; in sustained rain, move to a breathable medium-weight waterproof.At Just Horse Riders, our customers often pair a breathable winter turnout with a purpose-made cooler for post-ride routines. Explore LeMieux coolers and fleeces for efficient wicking, and check out proven outer layers from WeatherBeeta rugs and versatile Shires turnout options for changeable British weather.Drying rugs properly in British conditionsDry rugs in a dehumidified space rather than over direct heaters; removing moisture from the air prevents mould and preserves waterproof membranes. In damp British stables, this is the fastest, safest way to keep multiple rugs serviceable.Heaters can bake and crack coatings, while still leaving the room humid so rugs re-wet from the air. Dehumidifiers extract moisture and reheat it, speeding drying without stressing the fabric a method used at UK yards and centres to maintain rug rooms in winter.When this happens, cold air meets heat from the horses body forming condensation under the rain sheet. British Horse Society (BHS Rugging Guidance)Keep a simple rotation: one rug in use, one drying, one spare. Brush off mud before drying to speed the process and maintain breathability a good rug cleaning and grooming kit pays for itself by extending rug life. Avoid storing even slightly damp rugs; theyll encourage mildew and can spread ringworm spores from one horse to another.Signs your horse is overheating or chilled under a rugEarly moisture build-up at the withers and shoulders is your first warning; withers skin at 3133C in 68C ambient signals condensation is starting. If not corrected, you may see patchy damp, skin irritation, or a horse thats alternately restless (too hot) and tucked up (chilled).Watch for:Clammy withers/shoulders, even when the rest of the coat feels dry.Subtle behaviour changes: fidgeting, rug rubbing, reluctance to stand quietly (too warm) or tucked abdomen and reluctance to move (chilled).Shallow fast breathing or elevated heart rate during rest can indicate heat stress even without visible sweat in cold air.Flaky skin or hair loss under pressure points a sign the microclimate has been wrong for days.Quick tip: If your horse is clipped and stabled, be extra vigilant on nights forecast at 68C thats the band where studies saw moisture appear under light layers before obvious sweating.Your practical shopping checklistChoose features that balance waterproofing with real-world breathability for UK rain and humidity. Heres what to prioritise.Breathability: 3,000g/m or higher. This lets several kilograms of vapour per square metre escape daily, preventing that wet-liner surprise.Denier: tough outers (1,200D1,680D+) to fend off driving rain and yard wear without stifling airflow.Fit: pressure-free withers and good shoulder freedom reduce hot spots where condensation starts.Liners: favour thermoactive, wicking liners (fleece/wool) during cool-downs; avoid stacking multiple non-breathable layers.Purpose: match the rug to the job turnout vs stable vs fly/sweet itch and the horses clip, condition, and workload.Monitoring: if you manage multiple horses or one sensitive horse, consider an under-rug sensor to learn their personal condensation threshold.Brands and ranges to explore: winter-ready breathable waterproof turnout rugs, dependable indoor options from stable rugs, airflow-friendly fly and sweet itch rugs, and proven kit from WeatherBeeta, Shires and LeMieux.Pro tip: Buy for the worst weather you actually ride or turn out in, not the coldest temperature on the forecast. In the UK, water resistance plus breathability beats raw insulation most days from November to March.ConclusionA wet liner with a dry horse is nearly always condensation. In the UKs damp winters, stop it at the source: breathable waterproof rugs (3,000g/m+), vigilant withers checks around 3133C, and proper drying with a dehumidifier. Fine-tune layers to your horses clip and workload, and youll avoid the cycle of clammy rugs, skin flare-ups and mouldy tack rooms.Need help choosing? Our team at Just Horse Riders is happy to recommend the right setup from our turnout, stable and fly rug ranges for your horse and yard conditions.FAQsWhy is the liner soaked but my horse is dry after rain?Thats condensation. Warm moisture from your horse hits the cold inner surface of a not-breathable-enough rug and condenses. Breathable fabrics rated 3,000g/m or higher help vapour escape before it turns into water droplets.Does a wet rug harm my horse if theyre not shivering?Yes. Wet rugs flatten the coat so it cant insulate, wash away protective skin oils, and increase the risk of ringworm and mould. Even without shivering, your horse can be uncomfortable and at risk of skin problems. See the Dantherm guidance used by UK yards: rug drying best practice.At what temperature under the rug should I worry?Withers/skin at 3133C in 68C ambient is a red flag for early moisture accumulation. You may not feel obvious sweat yet, but condensation is likely starting under the rug.Can 0g rain sheets cause problems in heavy UK rain?Yes. The BHS notes that prolonged or heavy rain can seep through light 0g sheets; where cold air meets body heat, condensation forms under the rug and can reduce skin temperature. Use robust, breathable waterproofs in bad weather.How do I dry rugs quickly in a damp stable?Use a dehumidifier to extract moisture and gently reheat the air. This prevents mould and protects waterproof membranes better than direct heaters, which can damage coatings and leave the room humid.What breathability rating should I look for?At least 3,000g/m for typical UK winter rain and humidity. That allows up to 3kg of vapour per square metre of fabric to pass in 24 hours, reducing the risk of internal condensation during cold, damp spells.Do fly or sweet itch rugs overheat horses?They raised skin temperature by about 4.2C in the thermoneutral zone (521C), but one study reported no impact on overall thermoregulation. Researchers, including Kim McGilvray, advise more data in hotter weather and different colours before calling them risk-free (read more). Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop WeatherBeetaShop ShiresShop Fly Rugs

Young foals nurse four to six times per hour, and this suckling action helps stimulate the mares milk production. The demands made on the mammary tissue early on help set the stage for how much milk the mare will produce later. | Photo: iStockQ. My mare had her first foal last weeka beautiful filly! Everything started out very well. The filly nursed, and my mare accepted her without issue. However, now the foal isnt gaining weight. Ive heard that sometimes maiden mares dont create enough milk. Should I supplement her with milk replacer?A. Congratulations on the birth of your filly! Having a foal can be enchanting, although at the same time quite stressful because so many things can go wrong. If you havent done so already, I strongly recommend contacting your equine veterinarian, who might want to assess the foal and rule out any medical cause for the lack of growth.Sometimes a mare doesnt produce enough milk to support the foals demands. Foals of this age are nursing in the rage of four to six times per hour, and this suckling action helps stimulate milk production. The demands made on the mammary tissue early on help set the stage for how much milk the mare will produce later. Plenty of early suckling is important so the mare can support the foals needs as she grows. If the issue is that the foal does not have much drive to nurse, a veterinarian will need to determine the cause.If given your vets all clear to supplement with milk replacer, youll find several good commercially produced ones designed specifically for foals. Use these and not replacers created for other species such as goats or cattle. Every species has a milk composition slightly different and unique to their needs.Because of the need for frequent suckling, feed the foal ad lib milk replacer is best, making sure its constantly available. This is better than meal feeding her at times that are convenient for you but perhaps not in sync with when the foal wants to nurse. Also, presenting a foal with infrequent large replacer amounts at once risks overdrinking, and milk might end up in the hindgut where it can disrupt microbial population development.Keep track of how much replacer the foal is consuming each day. A foal born to a 1,000-pound mare might consume up to 4 pounds of replacer a day, at which point you can transition to free feeding a milk-based pellet.Make sure youre creating the milk replacer with a dry matter content of 10%. Less than this level of dry matter might leave the foal hungry. From month one to four the foal might consume 1 pound of replacer per 100 pounds of her body weight. The amount of milk the mare is providing will dictate how much the foal needs to consume from the supplemental source, so dont be alarmed if you see some variation in how much she consumes each day. Keep a journal so you can see the daily consumption level and be able to identify when you can transition to pellets or to record signs indicating she needs veterinary support.With careful management and supplementation, you should be able to ensure your foal is receiving the correct plane of nutrition to fully meet her genetic potential and develop at an appropriate rate.