Winter is a demanding time for horses because while the thick winter coat protects them from the cold, it also brings challenges - especially after training. Horses sweat even in low temperatures, and if the sweat does not evaporate quickly, they are at risk of cooling down and becoming ill. A sweat rug can help solve this problem, but not all sweat rugs are the same. Sweat rugs made from Icelandic sheep's wool in particular have proven themselves and offer numerous benefits for the health and well-being of our horses. In this blog article, we explain why sweat rugs made from Icelandic sheep's wool are so special. We visited the Kidka company and were able to watch the production of these all-natural horse sweat rugs. But let's start with why we use sweat rugs in the first place.
Why is sweating a problem in winter?
Horses develop a thick coat in winter that protects them from the cold, but can also cause problems after training. The winter coat absorbs sweat, making it difficult for the moisture to evaporate quickly. If the horse stays wet for a longer period of time, it can get cold, which increases the risk of colds or skin irritations. Particularly sensitive or clipped horses are prone to chafing caused by wet coats. A sweat rug is therefore a sensible investment to get the horse dry and warm again quickly after training.
The most natural solution: sweat blankets made of Icelandic sheep's wool
Not all sweat rugs are the same. While rugs made from synthetic materials often do not have the same natural properties, sweat rugs made from Icelandic sheep's wool offer unique advantages. Not only is this wool extremely effective at wicking moisture away from the body, but it has many other benefits that set it apart from other materials.
But what makes Icelandic sheep’s wool so special?
Icelandic sheep's wool, also known as "Lopi", is characterized by its two-layer structure, which makes it ideal for use in cold and humid climates:
- Inner layer (Þel) : These fine and soft fibers are responsible for insulation and keep the horse's body heat even in cold weather.
- Outer layer (Tog) : This layer is made of longer and coarser fibres that are water-repellent. They protect the insulating inner layer from rain and snow, keeping the horse dry.
Thanks to this two-layer structure, Icelandic sheep's wool offers a combination of warmth, lightness and natural water repellency that hardly any other material can achieve.
Application tips for sweat blankets made of Icelandic sheep's wool
In order for the sweat rug to be fully effective, it is important to use it correctly. After training, the horse should be kept moving to dissipate any residual heat. As soon as the initial heat has subsided, the sweat rug is put on. The absorbent properties of the wool ensure that the moisture is quickly absorbed and released into the air. If the rug becomes very damp, it may be a good idea to replace it with a dry rug to ensure that the horse is completely dry before going back out into the cold.
Excellent moisture absorption
Icelandic sheep's wool can absorb large amounts of moisture without feeling wet. Sweat is quickly drawn away from the horse's skin and transported to the surface of the blanket, where it evaporates. This keeps the horse dry and cools evenly. This rapid moisture absorption is particularly beneficial in winter, when quick drying is important to avoid health problems.
breathability for maximum comfort
Icelandic sheep's wool is an extremely breathable material. The natural fiber structure ensures good air circulation, which prevents moisture from building up. This means that even if the horse sweats heavily, the blanket will not get soaked. The horse stays warm, but at the same time excess heat can escape, reducing the risk of overheating.
Thermoregulation for optimal protection
A particular advantage of Icelandic sheep's wool is its ability to thermoregulate. The wool keeps the horse warm when it is cold, while also helping to dissipate excess heat when the horse is still hot after exercise. This adaptability is particularly important in winter, when there can be large differences in temperature between the stable and the outside area.
Natural antibacterial properties
Another advantage of Icelandic sheep's wool is the lanolin it contains, a natural wool fat that has antibacterial properties. This minimizes the risk of skin irritations or infections that could arise from long-term moisture. The antibacterial effect also supports the hygiene of the blanket, as unpleasant odors are reduced.
sustainability and longevity
Compared to synthetic materials, Icelandic sheep's wool is a natural and renewable raw material. The sheep whose wool these blankets are made from live in extreme climatic conditions in Iceland and have adapted perfectly to them. The wool is particularly hard-wearing and durable, making it an environmentally friendly and sustainable choice. A well-maintained sweat blanket made of Icelandic sheep's wool can remain in use for many years without losing its functionality.
Kidka: Tradition and quality from Iceland
When it comes to sweat rugs made from natural Icelandic sheep's wool, the company #Kidka is a name that stands for quality and tradition. Kidka focuses on sustainable production and only uses wool from Icelandic sheep, which are known for their unique properties. Production takes place directly in Iceland, which ensures strict quality control and short delivery routes. Kidka not only offers an excellent product, but also actively contributes to the preservation of Icelandic craft traditions and enjoys worldwide recognition. You can find more information at kidka.com
My tip: The Kidka sweat rugs with turtleneck.
