"WHAT? Earlwood is selling flags now?" This is the question I get asked by my non horsey friends and family, when I mention anything about our 'flags'. It always makes me laugh, because to anyone outside the horse world, the term flag is more closely associated with flag poles than horses.
But if you're a horse person, you will likely already be aware of this type of rug. Flag rugs have been around for a long time and are a staple in many stables across the hot Aussie summer period. Still, we thought we'd share a bit more of a behind-the-scenes look at the fabric we use for our Earlwood flag rugs.
What is FLAG fabric, how is it made, and why is it such a popular choice?
Flag fabric is best known for being incredibly lightweight, whilst still offering protection. The flag material we use in our Earlwood horse rugs is designed to maximise airflow, allowing hot air to escape and cooler air to circulate - something your horse will appreciate as the days heat up.
Despite being light, the fabric offers UV protection from the hot summer sun, whilst maintaining comfort. It also acts as a physical barrier against flies and other insects, with the fine weave keeping biting insects off the horse's skin, without trapping heat. As a bonus, it's easy to wash and maintain, and quick to dry after a wash or a summer storm, making it a practical everyday rug.
Is flag cloth all cotton?
A common misconception is that flag cloth is 100% cotton. In reality, it can't be. The stiff, stable structure of true flag cloth comes from a specific manufacturing process that cotton alone simply cannot withstand.
How is flag fabric made?
To achieve that signature stiffness, the material is passed through a chemical solution and then through an oven-like heat setting machine. The fabric travels on a conveyor system where it's exposed to high, controlled temperatures. This heat melts and fixes the fibres into place, so the weave doesn't shift over time, giving the fabric its durable, structured feel.
Because cotton is a natural fibre, it cannot be heat set in the same way. This is why we use a blended fabric, containing 35% cotton. It gives us the best of both worlds: the breathability of cotton, combined with the strength and stability of synthetic fibres that can be heat treated.
What does it look like?
To the eye, the blended fabric has a slightly more 'milky white' appearance compared to straight polyester flag cloth, but in everyday use, you're unlikely to notice any difference. What you will notice, is how comfortable, cool and practical it is for your horse.
So are you ready to fly the right kind of flag this Summer? If your horse could shop online, they'd already have one in their cart... beat them to it and let us help your horse stay cool and comfortable throughout the hot Aussie summer. Whether it's a flag combo, or something from our hybrid mesh range, come take a look, and remember, we're always here if you have more questions.
