How to Measure a Horse for a Rug (Big Horse & Clydesdale Guide)

Watch how to measure your horse correctly:

Not sure what size rug your horse needs?

Getting the right fit starts with accurate measurement — and when it comes to big horses, Clydesdales, and heavy horse breeds, it’s even more important to get it right.

A rug that’s too small can cause rubbing and restrict movement, while one that’s too big can slip, shift, and fail to provide proper coverage.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to measure your horse for a rug, how sizing works, and what to look for when fitting Clydesdale horse rugs and big horse rugs.

 Why Correct Rug Sizing Matters

Getting the correct rug size isn’t just about length — it’s about overall fit.

When a rug fits properly, you’ll notice:

• Better comfort and freedom of movement
• Less rubbing around the shoulders and chest
• Improved coverage in all weather conditions
• A rug that stays in place

For big horses and heavy horse breeds, proper sizing is even more important due to their broader chest, deeper body, and larger frame.

How to Measure Your Horse for a Rug

Measuring your horse is simple and only takes a few minutes.

Step-by-step:

1. Stand your horse square on level ground
2. Use a soft measuring tape or string
3. Measure from the centre of the chest, across the shoulder, and along the body
4. Finish at the rear of the horse (just before the tail)

Read either directly off the measuring tape, or measure the string. This measurement (in feet and inches) is your rug size.

 Common Measuring Mistakes

Avoid these common errors:

❌ Measuring from the side instead of chest
❌ Stopping too short before the rump
❌ Guessing based on previous rugs
❌ Assuming all brands size the same

 Even a small mistake can lead to a poor fit.

 Rug Sizing for Big Horses & Clydesdales

Measuring gives you a size — but fit is just as important as length.

Clydesdales and heavy horses often need:

• More chest room
• Extra drop for better coverage
• Better shoulder freedom

A standard rug in the correct size may still not fit properly.

That’s why it’s important to choose Clydesdale horse rugs or big horse rugs designed specifically for larger builds.

Understanding Rug Sizes (Quick Guide)

Typical sizes for larger horses:

• 6’6 – Extra large
• 6’9 – Big horse range
• 7’0 – 7’3 – Clydesdale sizing
• 7’6+ – Extra large draft horses

 Always check fit, not just size.

Choosing the Right Rug After Measuring

Once you’ve got your size, the next step is choosing the right type of rug:

• Waterproof rugs for wet conditions
• Winter rugs for colder weather
• Lightweight rugs for mild conditions

The right combination of fit + function gives your horse the best protection.

Explore our range of:

• Clydesdale horse rugs 
• Clydesdale winter rugs 
• waterproof horse rugs 

How to Check If Your Rug Fits Correctly

After fitting the rug, check:

• Chest sits comfortably without pulling
• Rug sits evenly along the body
• Enough drop to cover sides properly
• No tightness across shoulders
• No slipping or shifting

 A good fit should look balanced and feel comfortable.

Find the Right Fit for Your Horse

Getting the right rug size is the first step — but choosing a rug designed for your horse’s build makes all the difference.

If you have a big horse, Clydesdale, or heavy horse, look for rugs designed with extra chest room, deeper drop, and proper proportions.

 Explore our range of big horse rugs and Clydesdale horse rugs designed for real fit, comfort, and Australian conditions.

Not sure which rug style is best? See our winter vs summer rug guide →