Horse Rug Accessories
Horse Rug Accessories for Fit, Comfort and Repairs
Horse rug accessories can help improve fit, protect sensitive areas and replace small but essential parts. Our collection includes chest extenders, anti-rub bibs, shoulder guards, replacement surcingles and rug storage solutions from trusted equestrian brands.
Chest Extenders for a More Comfortable Fit
A chest extender adds room at the front of a compatible rug. This can be useful for broader horses or when a rug fits correctly through the length and shoulders but feels too close across the chest.
The LeMieux Rug Chest Extender provides a practical way to adjust compatible LeMieux rugs, while the LeMieux Sensitive Chest Extender is designed with sensitive horses in mind. The Bucas Magnetic Chest Extender is available for compatible Bucas rugs.
An extender should not be used to make an incorrectly sized rug fit. Check that the neck opening, shoulders and overall length remain secure once it is attached.
Protect Against Rug Rubs
Rubbing commonly develops around the chest, shoulders and withers, particularly when a horse is wearing rugs for long periods. An anti-rub bib or shoulder guard creates a smoother layer between the coat and the rug.
Options include the Shires Satin Anti-Rub Bib, LeMieux Sensitive Anti-Rub Bib and WeatherBeeta Satin Shoulder Guard. The LeMieux Chest Protection Pad offers more targeted protection around the front fastenings.
For greater coverage, the Horseware Rambo Slinky Shoulder Guard covers the shoulders and chest, while the Rambo Slinky Full Body can help keep more of the coat clean and smooth.
Always investigate why a rug is rubbing. An additional layer may help protect the coat but it will not correct a rug that is too tight, too loose or the wrong shape for the horse.
Replace Damaged Straps, Clips and Buckles
A broken clip or missing strap does not always mean the whole rug needs replacing. Keeping a few spare fastenings on the yard can be particularly useful during winter when turnout rugs are in daily use.
The Shires Surcingle Set can replace damaged cross-surcingles, while the Shires Leg Strap Clip, Shires Rug Strap Buckle and Shires Small Trigger Clip are useful for smaller repairs. WeatherBeeta Padded Leg Straps provide a replacement option for compatible rugs.
Check that replacement parts are the correct size and strength for the rug. Repairs should sit securely without creating sharp edges or loose sections that could catch.
Keep Rugs Organised Between Uses
Storing clean, dry rugs in a dedicated bag helps keep the rug rack organised and protects spare rugs from dust, damp and pests. The Kentucky Horsewear Rug Bag provides a tidy option for storage at home, on the yard or while travelling.
Allow rugs to dry fully before packing them away and check straps, stitching and fastenings before they are needed again.
Check Your Horse’s Rugs Regularly
Run your hands beneath the chest, shoulders and withers to check for pressure, heat or rubbed hair. Make sure surcingles are adjusted safely, leg straps are secure and every fastening remains in good condition.
You can also browse rug liners for adjustable warmth and neck covers and hoods for additional coverage. Explore the complete horse rug collection to find the right rug for your horse.
