John Whitaker Rothwell Roll Up Rain Sheet – A Review

by Lizzie from Ponies and Prosecco

I have been itching to put the John Whitaker Rothwell Roll Up Rain Sheet through its paces since it was delivered to my office earlier on this month by Haynet. However, I had one small problem – the absence of rain. This September had been a very dry month. That was until this last weekend, where the rain returned with a vengeance which happily coincided with our scheduled trip to Munstead for their hunter trials. The rain was torrential with strong gale force winds. This was spot on perfect conditions to put the rug to the test. 

The rug comes rolled up in a handy storage bag, perfect for hanging up tidily in the horsebox when not in use. Think of it as a pack-a-mac for horses. It happens to come in my favourite colour Navy with a smart, subtle Whitaker logo in Silver on the left hand side. It is made from a 420 Denier Waterproof but breathable material, so it keeps the horse dry without becoming causing them to sweat. 

I have found that the rug is perfect for throwing on whilst waiting around for classes to keep your tack and horse dry. The stirrup holes mean that this rug can also be ridden in. Perfect for use whilst waiting around in the warm up. 

It has two velcro fastenings on the neck to keep it securely in place. I really like the generosity of the fit of the neck as this will help to prevent plaits from being rubbed out. It also leaves enough room to cover the reins and any neckstrap or martingale that the horse may have on underneath. 
There is a single velcro fastening on the chest to keep the rug from slipping back. There is good depth in the shoulder, so the rug should also fit a broader stamp of horse. We experienced high winds this weekend and the rug stayed firmly in place, this was added by a good quality fillet string and an adjustable, removable, single surcingle with a velcro fastening. This also ensures that the rug doesn’t move whilst you are riding in it. 

Let’s now look at the sizing of the rug. It comes in Small, Medium, Large or X Large. Wigs is wearing a medium rug in the pictures and he is a 6’0″ in all makes of rug. The Medium is advised for rug sizes 5’9-6’0″. I found the rug fitted well even when worn over tack, so I would suggest that the Size Guide is pretty accurate. I was a bit dubious about how difficult it would be to get the rug back in the small storage bag, but it was surprisingly easy. You do as the name says and just roll it up, then stuff it in the bag. 

I really like this rug. I think it’s good quality, well thought out, and an affordable product. I know it is definitely going to be a lorry essential for me from now on. 

To purchase, please visit: John Whitaker