Summer brings warm weather but also an influx of pesky insects that can cause discomfort and health issues for horses.
Flies, mosquitoes, and other bugs can irritate your horse’s skin, eyes, and ears, leading to conditions like sweet itch and summer sores. To keep your horse comfortable during these months, investing in the right fly masks and protection gear is essential.
1. Fly Masks: Protecting the Face and Eyes
A fly mask is one of the best ways to shield your horse’s face and eyes from insects. These masks cover the sensitive areas of the head, including the eyes, ears, and sometimes the nose.
Top Features to Look for:
- UV Protection: Masks made from UV-blocking fabric prevent sunburn.
- Breathability: Mesh materials ensure air circulation while keeping flies out.
- Secure Fit: Look for adjustable straps to ensure comfort without restricting vision.
Best Fly Masks:
- Cashel Crusader Fly Mask: Known for its soft, breathable material and 70% UV protection. Available with or without ear covers.
- WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Fly Mask: Lightweight and durable, this mask provides full coverage for the eyes and ears, with a fleece trim to prevent rubbing.
- Bucas Buzz-Off Fly Mask: This mask offers great UV protection and comes with a secure fit and ear coverage for added comfort.
2. Fly Sheets: Full Body Protection
Fly sheets offer full-body protection, covering your horse’s coat and sensitive areas like the belly, which can be prone to insect bites.
Top Features to Look for:
- Lightweight Fabric: Ensures your horse stays cool and comfortable.
- UV Protection: Helps protect the coat and skin from sunburn.
- Durability: Look for rip-resistant fabric, especially if your horse is in a pasture.
Best Fly Sheets:
- Rambo Fly Buster Vamoose: Provides insect repellent protection with Vamoose technology, making it effective against flies and midges.
- Amigo Bug Buster Vamoose: Lightweight, breathable, and treated for insect resistance, it also offers UV protection.
- WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Fly Sheet: Known for its comfortable, breathable design and secure fit, this sheet is perfect for daily turnout.
3. Fly Boots: Leg Protection
Fly boots are designed to protect your horse’s lower legs from insects. They are especially useful for horses with sensitive skin or those prone to leg swelling.
Top Features to Look for:
- Breathability: A breathable mesh allows air circulation while protecting against flies.
- Full Coverage: Boots that cover the entire lower leg, including the fetlocks and pasterns, provide the best protection.
Best Fly Boots:
- EquiFit No Fly Zone Boots: These boots offer insect-repellent fabric and a breathable, secure fit.
- Schockemöhle Sports Fly Boots: Durable and breathable, they offer excellent protection from insects while ensuring comfort.
- Hippodona Fly Boots: These boots provide good coverage and are made of breathable mesh to keep your horse’s legs cool and protected.
4. Fly Repellent Sprays and Gels
Even with masks and sheets, some areas, like the underside or around the legs, may still attract insects. Fly sprays and gels offer additional protection.
Top Features to Look for:
- Safe Ingredients: Opt for products with natural ingredients like citronella or eucalyptus if you’re concerned about harsh chemicals.
- Long-lasting Protection: Choose sprays that last several hours to keep flies at bay throughout the day.
Best Fly Repellent Sprays:
- Pyranha Wipe N’ Spray: Known for long-lasting fly control, this product is gentle on your horse’s coat and effective against a wide range of insects.
- Farnam Endure Fly Spray: Provides up to 14 days of protection, making it great for horses in the field.
- Absorbine UltraShield EX Fly Spray: This powerful spray repels flies, mosquitoes, and gnats, offering up to 17 days of protection.
5. Fly Masks with Nose Coverage
For horses that need extra protection, especially those with light-colored muzzles, fly masks with nose coverage offer full-face protection.
Best Fly Masks with Nose Coverage:
- Cashel Crusader Fly Mask with Nose: Offers full coverage of the face and nose, providing excellent protection from both flies and UV rays.
- Kensington Signature Fly Mask with Nose: Known for durability and comfort, this mask provides excellent protection for the face and nose.
