Buyer's Guide to Choosing the Best Fly Rug for Your Horse

As the warm weather arrives in the UK, so does the inevitable presence of bothersome flies. These pesky insects can not only irritate our beloved horses but also cause discomfort and potential health issues. That's why investing in a high-quality fly rug is essential to protect your horse from fly bites and the resulting irritation. In this guide, we will explore the factors to consider when choosing the best fly rug for your horse, as well as other products that can help prevent fly-related irritation.

Your horse may be very sensitive to fly and midge bites and you don’t like to watch them shaking their head all day or perhaps their coat gets bleached by the sun, or perhaps he suffers the very difficult-to-manage condition of sweet itch. Our fly rug range has tried to think of every possible situation so that we have a solution for as many individuals as possible. 

Understanding the Importance of Fly Rugs

Flies can be more than just a nuisance for horses. They can cause skin irritations, allergic reactions, and transmit diseases. Fly rugs act as a barrier between your horse's skin and these flying pests, reducing the risk of bites and irritation. By selecting a suitable fly rug, you can ensure your horse stays comfortable and protected during the summer months. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fly Rug

1. Material and Breathability

Select a fly rug made from lightweight and breathable material to ensure your horse stays cool and comfortable. Fabrics such as mesh or fine-weave polyester are popular choices as they provide good airflow while keeping flies at bay. Look for rugs that offer UV protection to shield your horse from harmful sun rays. Some fly rugs also feature a showerproof top section to keep your horse dry on those warm yet showery days.

2. Fit and Coverage

The fit of the fly rug is crucial for its effectiveness. Ensure the rug provides ample coverage, extending from the neck to the tail, and that it adequately protects the belly and chest. It should fit snugly but not be too tight to restrict your horse's movement. Adjustable features such as surcingles, leg straps, and shoulder gussets can help achieve a better fit.

3. Durability

As the saying goes, 'buy cheap, buy twice'. A durable fly rug is essential to withstand daily wear and tear, particularly with more boisterous horses and ponies. Look for reinforced stitching, sturdy closures, and robust material that can withstand your horse's activities. A long-lasting rug will save you money in the long run. 

4. Mane and Tail Protection

Consider a fly rug that offers mane and tail protection. These areas are often prime targets for flies, and protecting them can prevent irritation. Fly rugs with integrated neck covers and tail flaps can provide comprehensive coverage. 

5. Fly Rug Design and Style

While functionality is paramount, there are so many options available you can also choose a fly rug that suits your style too. Many brands offer a variety of colours, patterns, and designs, allowing you to find a rug that reflects your horse's personality and your own taste. 

What is the best rug for a horse with sweet-itch?

Sweet itch is a skin condition in horses which is triggered by insect bites. Whilst the condition itself is not curable, you can help to prevent the symptoms from occurring by providing your horse with protection from fly and midge bites. 

Many fly sheets are specifically marketed as sweet itch rugs. These rugs offer features such as belly wraps and extra long tail covers to provide head-to-tail coverage. They typically offer additional protection of the most sensitive areas, which reduces the amount of skin surface for the mosquitoes to attack as possible. Due to the extra coverage and material used to make these rugs, sweet-itch sheets are usually not the cheapest option. However, for horses and ponies with sensitivity to insect bites, they are well worth the investment for the relief they offer. A good sweet-itch rug can also save money on expensive treatments by helping prevent the symptoms from occurring in the first place. 

We would advise using appropriate fly repellents and a fly mask along with a sweet-itch rug to provide extra protection for these most sensitive horses. Since mosquitoes are most active at dusk and at night, you should also think about adjusting your horse's turnout time accordingly. You can also help support your horse's immune system and health by adjusting its feed. Feed containing zinc but reduced sugar, protein and grains is particularly important for immune health. Supplements and horse feeds including garlic can also provide a fly repellent effect, whilst supplements such as Global Herbs Fly Free have been formulated to also tackle skin issues caused by flies. 

Are fly rugs waterproof?

It may be summer, but with the British weather, we are guaranteed a rain shower or two! Due to the mesh fabric, fly rugs are typically not waterproof, however in recent years many rug manufacturers have developed waterproof and showerproof fly rugs. These rugs feature a waterproof top section and mesh sides, ensuring your horse stays both cool and dry.

How do I stop the sun bleaching my horse's coat?

For horse owners of darker-coated horses and ponies who compete or show, the risk of the sun bleaching their horse's coats can be a concern. Also, thin and light-coated horses can be prone to sun damage as their coats do not offer as much protection from the sun. Most fly rugs offer some level of UV protection, and some are designed to actively reflect the sun's rays. Look out for the level of UV block in the product description if bleaching of the horse's coat is a concern for you.

Why do some fly rugs feature different prints?

Some more modern designs feature printed mesh material. Some of these designs can just be for fun, but some are designed to actively repel flies and midges. Scientific research shows that stripes effectively prevent flies from landing on the horse, hence you find a number of fly rugs are available in a zebra print design.

 

Cheap fly rugs for owners on a budget

Fly rugs come in a range of designs and price ranges. Even if you are on a budget, you will almost certainly be able to find a cheap fly sheet within your budget. Some of the cheaper rugs may not offer the same advanced features as the more expensive options but still help prevent irritation from flies and midges. They can also help you save money on expensive fly sprays and repellents, making them an economical option. Don't forget to check out our sale fly rugs to pick up a bargain too!

 

Our Top 3 Recommended Fly Rug Brands

1. WeatherBeeta Fly Rugs

WeatherBeeta is a well-renowned brand that offers a wide range of fly rugs designed to cater to various horse sizes and shapes. Known for their excellent durability and high-quality materials, WeatherBeeta rugs offer a host of additional features not found in some of the cheaper brands and provide excellent protection from flies and UV rays.

2. Gallop Fly Rugs

At the other end of the price scale, Gallop offers exceptional value for money. Despite the lower price point, Gallop rugs tend to be a generous fit, meaning their fly rugs still offer great coverage and protection.

3. Shires Fly Rugs

A mid-priced range, Shires is a popular UK-based brand that offers fly rugs suitable for all budgets. They provide a range of options, from basic designs to more advanced features. Their range also includes waterproof fly sheets and fly rugs in a range of prints, including Zebra print rugs which are designed to actively deter flies. Shires fly rugs are known for their durability and affordability. 

Additional Products to Prevent Fly Irritation

In addition to fly rugs, there are several other products available on the market that can help protect your horse from fly irritation:

1. Fly Masks

Fly masks provide protection for your horse's face, eyes, and ears, which are particularly sensitive to flies. Look for masks made from breathable materials with fine mesh to allow for clear vision and airflow.

2. Fly Boots

Fly boots, or fly wraps, are designed to protect your horse's lower legs from fly bites and irritation. They can be particularly useful for horses prone to stomping or horses with sensitive skin.

3. Fly Sprays and Repellents

Fly sprays and repellents are effective in repelling flies and other insects. Look for products specifically formulated for horses and ponies and follow the instructions carefully. These products usually need to be applied at least once a day to ensure continued effectiveness.

4. Fly Traps and Fly Papers

Consider using fly traps or fly papers around the stable yard to help control the fly population. These can be effective in reducing the number of flies and so providing relief for your horse. 

In summary, investing in a high-quality fly rug is a wise decision to protect your horse from the irritation and potential health risks associated with flies. Consider factors such as material, fit, durability, and coverage when selecting the best fly rug for your horse. Remember to also explore other products like fly masks, fly boots, sprays, and traps to create a comprehensive defence against flies. By prioritising your horse's comfort and well-being, you can ensure an enjoyable and irritation-free summer season for both you and your equine companion.

Remember, a happy horse is a horse free from pesky flies!