The Best Fly Protection for Your Horse
May 1st 2025
Best Fly Protection for Horses: Top Masks, Rugs & Sweet Itch Solutions
Summer is finally here and while equestrians across the UK are rejoicing in the warmer weather, many are also busy digging out their horse’s fly protection gear. If you’ve turned over your tack room and found that your fly sheets, sweet itch rugs or fly masks are looking a bit worse for wear, now’s the perfect time for an upgrade.
What is the Best Fly Rug and Mask?
With so many fly sprays, rugs and masks for horses available, choosing the right summer protection can be overwhelming. Because fly gear is often used when horses are warm, sweaty and turned out in the field, durability is key. We all know how frustrating it is investing in kit that only lasts one season. Whether you’re after budget-friendly fly masks or premium designs with added features like UV protection and ear covers, here’s our handy guide to the best options available this year.
Choosing the Right Fly Mask for Your Horse
When choosing a fly mask, consider your horse’s individual needs. Here are a few key factors:
UV Protection: Essential for horses with light-coloured skin or sensitive eyes.
With or Without Ears: Masks with ears offer extra protection from flies but may not suit every horse.
Nose Nets: These help block UV rays, protect from midges and even filter pollen- great for horses prone to allergies.
Whilst a nose net can help protect your horse's nose from the sun, if they have a particularly pink nose they may be more prone to burning and require sun cream for horses.
Affordable Fly Masks for Horses (But Still Great Quality)
These affordable fly masks are ideal if your horse has a habit of losing theirs or has a cheeky fieldmate who likes to “help” remove them!
Saxon Mesh Fly Mask - £11.25
FlyGuard Fine Mesh Fly Mask with Ears - £17.99
LeMieux Visor-Tek Fly Masks - from £18.95
Premium Fly Masks Worth the Investment
For horses that keep their masks on and need that extra level of comfort and protection, these high-end options are a great choice. Featuring fringes, breathable mesh, strong fastenings and top-tier UV protection, they offer long-lasting relief from flies.
Woof Wear UV Fly Masks - from £23.95
Equilibrium Field Relief Masks for Horses and Donkeys - from £26.50
Horseware Rambo Fly Mask - £38.65
Best Fly Rugs for Horses
Budget-Friendly Fly Rugs
Protect your horse from insects without breaking the bank. These lightweight fly sheets are perfect for everyday use during summer turnout.
Tempest Mesh Combo Rugs - from £43.19
WeatherBeeta Comfitec Essential Fly Sheet - £53.99
LeMieux Arika Armour Rugs - from £89.95
Premium Fly Rugs Designed to Last
Looking for something more durable? These technical fly rugs are made with robust materials and advanced features like anti-UV fabric, belly flaps and superior fit for all-day comfort.
Bucas Buzz-Off Fly Rugs – from £111.00
Premier Equine Super Lite Fly Rug – £115.20
Horseware Rambo Hoody – from £165.95
What’s the Difference Between a Fly Rug and a Sweet Itch Rug?
Sweet itch is an allergic reaction caused by the bites of midges (Culicoides). It results in severe itching, hair loss and discomfort that most commonly affecting the mane, tail and belly. Unlike standard fly sheets, sweet itch rugs are made with a much tighter weave to stop even the tiniest insects from reaching your horse’s skin. They also often offer full-body coverage including the neck and belly. You can shop a whole range of sweet-itch rugs and treatments at Country & Stable to help keep your horse comfortable and alleviate itching.
Top Sweet Itch Rugs for Horses
These are specially designed with close mesh for horses who suffer from sweet itch and require full-coverage to relieve irritation:
WeatherBeeta Sweet Itch Shield
Waterproof Fly Rugs: For the Unpredictable British Weather
We know how quickly British summer can go from blazing sun to sudden downpours. That’s where waterproof fly rugs come in handy. These dynamic rugs often include a removable liner or a lightweight fill, making them ideal for horses living out 24/7 or for transitional weather.
A top pick is the: Premier Equine Buster Stay-Dry Super Lite Fly Rug it keeps your horse dry and bug-free during those annoying chilly and damp summer days. It's so great - it has been given a five-star review from one of our happy customers:
Kathryn said:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Fantastic quality and the rug has been excellent in this wet but warm weather. It was delivered very quickly and I thoroughly recommend Country and stable and the rug."
Did You Know Zebra Patterns Can Deter Flies?
It’s true! Scientific studies, including research from the University of Bristol, have shown that zebra stripes can confuse flies, making it harder for them to land. The high-contrast pattern disrupts their visual system. So not only does your horse look cool in a zebra-print rug, it’s a natural bug repellent inspired by evolution!
Try: Bucas Buzz-Off Zebra Fly Rug – functional and funky!
Check Out Our Range of Fly Repellents
Now that you’ve got the masks and rugs sorted, let’s talk fly sprays, gels and repellents. There are a lot to choose from, and what works for one horse might not work for another.
Top Tip: Spray the rug, not the horse! This gives better coverage and reduces skin irritation for sensitive horses.
We’ve tested some of the best fly sprays out there. Find out which fly repellent was voted best in our review blog.
Summer Doesn't Need to be Stressful
The right combination of fly masks, rugs, and repellents will help keep your horse comfortable, bite-free, and happy all summer long. Whether your horse needs full protection from sweet itch or just a bit of extra defence during turnout, we’ve got the gear to suit every need and budget.
We stock some of the best fly rugs, masks and sweet itch solutions for horses, all carefully crafted to keep your horse comfortable, protected and stress-free during the warmer months. Browse our full range of fly protection for horses in the UK - because your horse deserves a happy, bug-free summer!
