7 Best Rain Sheets for Horses to Keep Them Dry [Review]

Looking for the best rain sheets for horses? The best waterproof rain sheet for horses?

You’ve come to the right place. 

02/24/2024 06:45 pm GMT

I’ve cut out all the boring searching for you with my 7 top picks.

Let’s start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.

This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!

7 Best Horse Rain Sheets (Equestrian Review)

After two decades working with horses, I know what it’s like to fight the rain when you’re stuck outside. It’s not fun for your horse to stand at a show or in its paddock while getting soaked in wet weather.

I’ve tried many different rain sheets and done plenty of research. To cut all that out for you, I’ve put together a guide of my all-time favorites.

Let’s dive in.

#1 WeatherBeeta Rain Sheet (WINNER)

Everything about this option is great, there’s nothing not to love, with the only exception being that is not suitable for turnout.

The cut is elegant and even though it is not custom made, you will fit right in at any horse show with it. What I really love about this sheet is that it has slots for your stirrups.

This means you can run your stirrups down and hop on without taking off the blanket. Your horse and your tack stay dry. You not so much, but that’s what rider wet wear is for.

There is a full neck that has a lop that you can connect to the crown of your bridle. This will prevent the neck of the sheet from slipping down.

It only has one surcingle and chest buckle, which makes it really easy to put on and take off. The tail chord will prevent to back of the sheet from blowing up if there’s any wind.

Physical Attributes

• 420 denier outer
• Waterproof sheet
• Adjustable belly closure
• Tail cord
• Stirrup slots
• Surcingle front closure
• Belly surcingle strap

Quantitative Measurements

• Comes in pony, cob, full, and warmblood sizes
• Comes in navy

Benefits & Drawbacks of WeatherBeeta Rain Sheet

• Stirrups slots so you can mount easily
• You can ride with this on
• Keeps tack dry
• Full neck protection
• Bridle loop
• Adjustable straps

Drawbacks

• Only works for short periods of time

How it Compare to Others and Why

This rain sheet is great for horse shows as it allows you to start your warm-up in the rain and keeps your horse dry. It has slots for your stirrups, which some others do not have.

Expert Tips

Pro Equine Grooms, recommends using a rain sheet in temperatures ranging between 50 and 60F. [1]

READ MORE: Best Stable Sheets

#2 Bucas Rain Protector Sheet

Bucas makes some great gear and this is no different. I’ve used a lot of Bucas blankets over the years and find they are of great quality and last a long time.

This particular rain sheet is for trail riders or for horse shows. You can even ride with this one as it has slots for your stirrups.

Physical Attributes

• Waterproof
• One chest strap
• Stirrup slits
• Three hook and loop neck straps
• Pole strap
• Belly surcingle straps
• Carrier bag

Quantitative Measurements

• Comes in blue
• Sizes range from small to large

Benefits & Drawbacksof Bucas Rain Protector Sheet

• Attached neck protection
• Ringside rain sheet
• Breathable
• Lightweight

Drawbacks

• Expensive

How it Compare to Others and Why

Bucas makes fantastic horse blankets of all types. This is one of the best rain sheets for horses that spend a lot of time at horse shows as it is designed to fit over your tack, while some others do not have this feature.

Expert Tips

While a rain sheet for horse shows does not have to fit quite as exactly like a regular blanket, you still need the correct size. Find out how to measure for a horse blanket from the experts at SmartPak.

#3 Shires Tempest Original Rain Sheet

Shires are one of my top blanket brands. I have one of these rain sheets and love it. It’s perfect for turnout when it’s rainy or the ground is a bit muddy.

My horse stays dry, is happy, and stays clean, which makes me happy. My horse not so much.

Physical Attributes

• 0g poly fill
• 600 Denier ripstop
• Double hook and eye chest closures
• Adjustable chest closures
• Leg strap D-rings
• Tail flap
• Tail strap
• Adjustable cross surcingles
• Adjustable hind leg straps

Quantitative Measurements

• Comes in navy/grey, charcoal/turquoise, and owl print on navy
• Blanket sizes from 48-inch to 84-inch

Benefits & Drawbacks of Shires Tempest Original Rain Sheet

• Lightweight
• Perfect for turnout
• Waterproof

Drawbacks

• Not suitable for ringside at shows
• Can’t ride with it

How it Compare to Others and Why

This is a waterproof turnout sheet only. It is very lightweight and ideal for keeping your horse dry in warmer weather. Unlike some others, you can’t ride with this blanket.

Expert Tips

Learning to correctly blanket your horse is a bit of an art. But, I promise you’ll figure it out in no time. The British Horse Society provides some great tips on when to use blankets and which ones are for specific circumstances.

They recommend removing blankets daily to make sure it is not causing any sores or rubs. [2]

#4 SHEDROW Comfort Neck Rainsheet Black

If you want a little more coverage without adding warmth, I’ve got a great one here for you. Plus it has extra-long shoulder gussets, one of my favorite types of blanket features.

Physical Attributes

• High neck protection
• Double buckle chest closures
• Adjustable buckle closures
• Detachable back leg straps
• 840 denier ballistic nylon
• Adjustable leg straps

Quantitative Measurements

• Comes in black with grey trim

Benefits & Drawbacks of SHEDROW Comfort Neck Rainsheet Black

• Durable sheet
• Breathable
• Ideal for spring and fall turnout

Drawbacks

• Not suitable for horse shows
• Not suitable for riding

How it Compare to Others and Why

While this waterproof turnout sheet is more expensive than some others, it has a high neck, which is not common in 0 fill blankets.

Expert Tips

Did you know that blankets can provide wind protection as well when used? This equestrian has this to say about the Shedrow rain blanket:

“Lightweight, easy to put on. Good for mild winters, or three-season protection for biting winds or rain.”

#5 Tough-1 320D Rain Sheet with Neck Cover

If you need a reasonably priced rain blanket that is just for horse shows this is a great option. It is really lightweight and easy to pack in your tack trunk or trailer.

Physical Attributes

• Attached neck
• Tail flap
• 320 denier
• Halter loop at crown
• Single surcingle belly closure

Quantitative Measurements

• Comes in black
• Sizes from 72-inch to 81-inch

Benefits & Drawbacks of Tough-1 320D Rain Sheet with Neck Cover

• Suitable for ringside at horse shows
• Comes with mesh storage bag
• Very lightweight
• Affordable price

Drawbacks

• Not suitable for turnout

How it Compare to Others and Why

This rain sheet is not designed for turning your horse out in, like some others. It is for putting on your horse while at a horse show to keep him and your tack dry.

It is also suitable for trail riders that want to use it over their tack while they take a break.

Expert Tips

According to the British Horse Society, you need to blanket “Underweight horses as this will prevent them increasing their metabolic rate and using more energy to keep warm, leading to further weight loss.” [2]

#6 Professionals Choice 1200D Rainsheet

You might recognize the name Professionals Choice for their unique horse buts. But that’s not the only great product they offer.

I really love their waterproof rain sheets for their more quirky pattern that isn’t just boring old navy blue!

Physical Attributes

• Ripstop outershell
• Waterproof
• Breathable
• Fleece wither protection
• Extra long shoulder gussests
• Belly surcingle straps

Quantitative Measurements

• Black plaid print
• Sizes from 74-inch to 84-inch

Benefits & Drawbacks of Professionals Choice 1200D Rainsheet

• 1200 denier
• Durable
• Mesh lining
• No center seem

Drawbacks

• Only suitable for turnout

How it Compare to Others and Why

This rain sheet stands out for its unique black plaid print. It is suitable for turnout but not ringside like some of the others.

Expert Tips

Ph.D students from Rutgers University have this great tip for horse owners: “you don’t want to put a blanket on a wet horse.

Wet blankets will keep in the wetness creating an even colder horse, and potentially create a skin fungus if not allowed to dry out properly.” [3]

#7 Weaver Leather Premium 600D Mesh Horse Rainsheet

I love a breathable blanket on a horse and this one really fits the bill! It is lightweight, keeps your horse dry, and won’t leave you with a clammy horse in rainy weather.

Check more lightweight horse blankets here!

Physical Attributes

• 600 denier ripstop fabric
• Mesh lining
• 0g fill
• Adjustable front closures
• Shoulder gussets
• Belly surcingle straps

Quantitative Measurements

• Comes in mint/silver, blue/silver, and black/silver
• Blanket sizes from 69-inch to 84-inch

Benefits & Drawbacks of Weaver Leather Premium 600D Mesh Horse Rainsheet

• Breathable
• Great for warm weather turnout
• Should gussets for freedom of movement

Drawbacks

• Not suitable for horse shows ringside
• Will not fit over tack

How it Compare to Others and Why

The mesh fabric used in this rain sheet really helps make it breathable. It is one of the most breathable turnout style rain sheets I’ve included in this guide.

If you need something for inclement weather that won’t heat up your horse, this is a super choice.

Expert Tips

What happens if your horse has never worn a blanket but you want to now put one on him? Check out lifetime equestrian, Carmella’s, tips on how to put a blanket on a horse for the first time.

When to Use a Rain Sheet on Horse?

There are two different situations when you use a rain sheet on a horse. The first is when you’re at a horse show and your horse has to wait by the ring in the rain.

There are certain types of rain sheets designed for this, of which I’ve included some of my favorites here in this guide.

The other time you use a rain sheet is for turning your horse out when it is raining or if you want to keep your horse clean.

But the weather is too warm for a heavier blanket and you want your horse comfortable. You don’t want your horse to sweat!

Keep in mind that some temperatures are too hot for even using a rain sheet.

Check: What Is an Anti Sweat Sheet?

What Should You Consider Buying Rain Sheets For Horses?

When buying a rain sheet for horses, you need to consider a few things. But don’t get too worried, it’s just like buying any blanket with one little twist.

How You Want to Use the Rain Sheet

First, you need to decide what you want a rain sheet for. Do you need something for horse shows? If so, you need one designed for this purpose.

My favorite styles are those with slots for your stirrups. However, this style is not suitable for turnout.

If you want a rain sheet to turn your horse out in then you need one that is just like any other turnout blanket. However, you want one with 0g of filling, so you can use it in warm weather.

Make Sure You Get the Right Sheet Size

A good blanket fit is essential. Make sure you measure your horse, so you get the right size. I included a really helpful blanket fitting video earlier in this guide.

Related: Can you put a rain sheet on a wet horse?

FAQs

Phew, if you’re new to horse ownership, I’m sure that was a lot to take in and you might have some more questions.

I’ve answered some common ones I’ve come across in my 20 years of working with horses here.

Conclusion

You made it to the end of my guide! I hope it’s really helped you. I’m sure you’re now armed to find the best horse rain sheet to add to your horse’s wardrobe.

Final Recommendation

If you need a rain sheet for horse shows then my top pick is Weatherbeeta, my guide winner. It has everything you need to keep your horse and tack dry at the ring.

If you want something light for turnout then the Weaver Leather Premium 600D Mesh Horse Rainsheet is one of my all-time favorites.

References

• 1. How To Decide What Blanket To Use And When To Use It! [Internet]. Pro Equine Grooms. Available from: https://www.proequinegrooms.com/tips/equipment-and-tack/how-to-decide-what-blanket-to-use-and-when-to-use-it
• 2. Rugging | British Horse Society [Internet]. www.bhs.org.uk. Available from: https://www.bhs.org.uk/advice-and-information/horse-care/rugging
• 3. To Blanket or Not To Blanket? | Equine Science Center [Internet]. [cited 2022 Feb 2]. Available from: https://esc.rutgers.edu/fact_sheet/to-blanket-or-not-to-blanket/

What are your favorite rain sheets for horses? Please share below!