Beat the Heat: Summer Rugging Tips for Goulburn Horses
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As the temperatures rise, so does the challenge of keeping your horse cool, comfortable, and protected. Here in Goulburn, summers bring hot, dry days, intense UV exposure, plenty of flies, and the occasional summer storm. That means finding the right summer horse rug isn’t just a matter of comfort — it’s essential for your horse’s health and wellbeing.
At Dutaillis Saddlery, we stock a carefully selected range of Zilco and GG Australia rugs designed to cope with tough Australian conditions. Here’s your guide to beating the heat and choosing the best rug for the season.
Goulburn’s Summer Climate at a Glance
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Daytime highs: Often high 20s to low 30s °C
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Strong UV exposure: Horses with sensitive coats need extra protection
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Insects galore: Flies, midges, and biting pests are at their peak
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Unpredictable weather: Hot, dry mornings can turn into stormy afternoons
The right rug for this climate needs to balance breathability, insect protection, and UV resistance — without trapping heat.
What to Look for in a Summer Rug
When shopping for your horse this summer, keep these key features in mind:
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Lightweight, breathable fabrics – mesh, flag, or poly/cotton blends that allow airflow
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UV protection – tight weaves and light colours to reflect heat and shield the coat
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Durability – ripstop or reinforced fabrics for paddock wear and tear
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Insect defence – combos and mesh panels to keep flies at bay
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Flexibility – easy to swap or remove as the weather changes
Rug Types for Goulburn Summers
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Flag rugs – ultra-lightweight, perfect for the hottest days
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Mesh or insect rugs – maximum airflow, strong insect protection
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Hybrid/combo rugs – mesh panels with ripstop over the back for balance
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Polycotton summer rugs – durable and breathable for everyday use
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Light shower sheets – handy for summer storms without overheating
Our Top Picks: Zilco & GG Rugs at Dutailis Saddlery
We’ve hand-picked these rugs to suit the Goulburn summer conditions.
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Zilco Flag Combo Rug
Super lightweight, breathable “flag” fabric that keeps your horse cool while providing UV and insect protection. Ideal for the hottest days. -
Zilco Econostop Combo Rug
A versatile summer rug with a bit more durability while still designed to breathe. Great for active horses or those in rough paddocks. -
GG Australia Tear-Stop Horse Rug
Lightweight, breathable polyester tear-stop design with strong fittings — a reliable daily option for summer turnout. -
GG Australia Tear-Stop Combo Rug
Full neck + body coverage for maximum fly and UV protection without excess weight. -
GG Australia Heavy Duty Tear-Stop Combo
Designed for horses that are harder on their rugs, this offers durability and coverage while still being light enough for summer use.
We do have some hybrid and full mesh options landing in store next week!
👉 www.dutaillissaddlery.com
Tips for Rug Management in Summer
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Check daily – remove or swap rugs as temperatures change.
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Monitor for heat stress – heavy sweating, fast breathing, or lethargy are warning signs.
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Keep rugs clean – dust and sweat reduce breathability; wash and air dry regularly.
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Rotate options – have a flag rug for hot days, a mesh for insect pressure, and a light shower rug for storms.
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Fit matters – always ensure rugs fit snugly but don’t rub or restrict movement.
Ready for Summer?
Beating the heat in Goulburn is all about preparation. With the right Zilco and GG Australia rugs from Dutailis Saddlery, your horse can stay cool, comfortable, and protected all season long.
👉 www.dutaillissaddlery.com