Why is denier in rugs so important?

What is “Denier” and why is it important?

Just like a pair of tights, the strength of a horse rug can be determined by its “denier”. This is a term that applies to the outer shell of a turn out rug. It refers specifically to the thickness of the individual thread used in the yarn weave of the rug.

So for example a rug labelled as 600 denier will have 600 yarns to each thread used, a 1200 denier will have 1200 yarns to each thread used. The 1200 denier rug will give a slightly bulkier and harder wearing fabric. This is why denier is such a useful measure when you’re choosing a rug.

The denier of a rug is used in conjuction with the weight of it or “GSM” or “grams per square metre” as it is sometimes known. The reason why the GSM is important is because rugs that have a lower ratio of gsm to denier, will have a thinner feeling outer material which ultimately will be weaker.

Together the denier and weight give an indication of the strength of a rug.

What deniers do rugs come in?

The most common types you’ll see when choosing a rug are: 600D, 900D, 1200D or 1680D.

What’s the difference between the deniers?

Essentially the higher the denier number, the thicker the weave, the stronger the material.

So which Denier is best?

Read our pros and cons about each one...

600 Denier: 

• Description: These are considered lightweight and more suitable for horses that are in milder climates or for horses that aren’t very rough on their rugs.
• Best For: Horses that spend time in well-sheltered environments or do not engage in a lot of rough play with other horses.
• Pros: Lightweight, often less expensive.
• Cons: Not as durable, more prone to tearing if exposed to rough use or challenging outdoor conditions.

1200 Denier: 

• Description: These rugs strike a balance between durability and weight. They offer moderate protection and are suitable for a wider range of horses and weather conditions.
• Best For: Horses that are turned out in mixed environments, where they may encounter rain, wind, or colder temperatures, but who are not particularly hard on their rugs.
• Pros: Good durability for most conditions, suitable for everyday use.
• Cons: Heavier than lower deniers, but not as strong as the highest options.

1680 Denier

• Description: These are heavy-duty rugs designed for horses that are hard on their turnout rugs or those in harsher weather conditions. The 1680 denier rugs are strong and resistant to tears and abrasions.
• Best For: Horses that play rough in the field, those in larger groups, or those in extreme weather conditions like heavy wind or rain.
• Pros: Extremely durable, offering superior protection against the elements and wear.
• Cons: Heavier and usually more expensive due to the high-quality fabric.

Other factors to consider

Waterproofing

• Regardless of denier, turnout rugs should be waterproof to protect horses in rainy conditions. The denier primarily affects the rug's strength and durability, not its waterproof properties.

Insulation

• Denier doesn't directly influence warmth. If you're looking for warmth, you’ll need to consider the fill (e.g., light, medium, or heavy-weight insulation) in addition to the denier rating.

Breathability

• Higher denier fabrics may be less breathable, but this depends on the specific material and construction of the rug. A balance between breathability and durability is important for your horse’s comfort.

What’s the difference in price?

A 1200 denier horse rug will cost you around 15% more than a 600 denier. A 1200 denier will generally be much more durable and potentially have a longer life. Likewise a 1680 denier is the "top of the range” of horse rug fabrics and will come at a premium price.

To offer cheaper prices, the GSM weight of the denier fabrics has been reduced. The impact of this is that essentially a thinner fabric is used but it still has the same denier rating. The rug’s fabric still looks the same, but its strength and durability will be reduced.

Working through an example…if you take a 1200 denier rug, this rug would typically be 370gsm. To reduce or keep the cost down, some brands have reduced the weight down to 300gsm. So, it’ll be 20% thinner than one that’s 370 gsm which explains why it won’t last as long.

IFor many, 1200 denier is the sweet spot between price, durability and performance.

And so…does denier make a difference?

Hopefully this blog has answered the question that it started with: does denier make a difference? Yes it does. So the next time you buy a rug, you’ll be better placed to make the right choice and by choosing the right denier, you can ensure that your horse gets the protection he needs without sacrificing comfort or durability.

Leave us a comment and let us know about the best rug you’ve bought and why?