Horseware Amigo Bravo II 250g Review

The Reputation

Horseware’s Amigo Bravo II has been a staple in the turnout rug market for years. It’s the rug that most people think of when they think “reliable mid-range option.” I’ve owned previous versions and they’ve always been solid, if unspectacular. So when I picked up the latest 250g model for testing, I was expecting more of the same dependable performance. Unfortunately, my experience this time was a little more mixed.

First Impressions

Out of the packaging, the Bravo II looks familiar. The classic Horseware cut, the navy colourway with contrasting trim, the integrated surcingles. It’s a smart-looking rug. But picking it up, the outer fabric felt noticeably thinner than the version I owned two years ago. It’s hard to quantify — it might just be a different weave — but the initial feel wasn’t as robust as I’d expected.

The 250g fill is a good weight for the colder months, and the lining is smooth enough. The leg straps are a decent quality and the front closure is the reliable T-bar system Horseware are known for.

Fit Issues

This is where things went a bit sideways. I ordered a 6’6” — the same size I’ve always bought for my horse in Horseware rugs. This one runs noticeably small. The length was fine, but the depth was tight across the barrel, and the neck sat higher than I’d like, leaving a gap at the chest. I could have gone up a size, but that would have been too long in the body.

I’ve heard similar complaints from other riders, so this doesn’t seem to be a one-off. If you’re buying a Bravo II, I’d recommend trying before you buy, or being prepared to exchange.

Performance Over 8 Weeks

Waterproofing was good but not exceptional. It handled standard British rain without issue — the lining stayed dry after moderate rainfall. During one particularly prolonged downpour (around 8 hours of continuous rain), I did find some dampness creeping in around the shoulders. Not soaked, but not the bone-dry performance I got from the WeatherBeeta at a lower price point.

The 250g fill kept my horse warm enough through December, though I did need to add a liner on the coldest nights. The leg straps performed well and the T-bar closure stayed secure.

Durability Concerns

At week six, I noticed some stitching starting to pull along one of the back seams. It hasn’t torn through, but it’s the kind of early wear that makes you nervous. The outer fabric also scuffed up more than I expected from stable door rubbing. By week eight, the shoulders were looking quite worn — more so than other rugs I’ve tested for the same period.

The Price Problem

Here’s the real issue. The Amigo Bravo II now retails at £119.99. Two years ago, a similar model was around £89. That’s a significant increase, and it’s hard to justify when the quality seems to have gone in the opposite direction. At £90, this would be a solid four-star rug. At £120, I expect better.

Final Thoughts

The Horseware Amigo Bravo II 250g is still a functional turnout rug from a brand with a strong heritage. It’ll keep your horse warm and reasonably dry. But the combination of sizing inconsistencies, thinner fabric, early stitching issues, and a significant price increase makes it hard to recommend at its current price. There are better options available for the same money — or less.