Fly Rugs

A fly rug is specially designed to shield horses from insect irritation, heat, biting flies and UV exposure during outdoor turnout. Unlike winter turnout rugs, which focus on insulation and waterproofing, fly rugs are engineered for breathability and cooling comfort while providing full-body protection against seasonal pests. When horses are out in pasture or paddocks during warm weather, flies and midges can land repeatedly on the neck, belly, shoulders and hindquarters, causing stress, tail swishing, stamping and rubbing. Over time, constant irritation can lead to hair loss, skin scabbing, hypersensitivity reactions and behavioral changes.

Using fly rugs for horses reduces these problems by creating a physical barrier between the horse and insects. These rugs are made from loosely woven but durable mesh that allows air to pass freely while closing small enough gaps to stop horseflies and midges from biting the skin. Scientific studies show that horses experiencing persistent fly irritation display elevated cortisol levels — signaling stress — and can become restless during turnout. Fly protection therefore isn’t just an accessory; it supports the horse’s emotional well-being, comfort and natural grazing behaviors all summer long.

A fly sheet also prevents the coat from bleaching under strong sunlight. Some horses, especially those with darker or fine coats, bleach quickly when exposed to UV rays, while light-colored horses may develop sun-sensitive burns. By adding a breathable UV-protective barrier, fly rugs allow horses to enjoy long hours outside without heat build-up and without risking skin damage.

Key Benefits of Using a Fly Rug in Warm Weather

A fly rug solves several summertime challenges at once by protecting the skin, coat and comfort level without trapping heat. Horses that are sensitive to insects often rub their necks, manes and tails to relieve irritation, which can lead to hair breakage and open sores. A fly rug dramatically reduces the risk of irritation and helps the horse relax rather than constantly defend itself against insects.

Primary benefits include:

• 1. Protection from horseflies, midges and mosquitos during turnout
  
  

• 2. Relief for horses that suffer from sweet itch and seasonal hypersensitivity
  
  

• 3. Breathable and cooling design for hot weather comfort
  
  

• 4. UV-blocking fabric for coat colour preservation and skin protection
  
  

• 5. Reduced behavioural stress — calmer grazing and movement outdoors
  
  

Because fly irritation varies from horse to horse, some benefit from minimal protection while others require extended coverage. This is why different types of fly rugs exist, so owners can tailor protection to the horse’s sensitivity, workload and turnout habits.

Types of Fly Rugs Available in This Collection

Every horse experiences summer differently. Some thrive even in heat, while others struggle with heat stress or insect hypersensitivity. That’s why this collection offers diverse fly rugs, each with purpose-driven design.

Lightweight Breathable Fly Rugs for Summer Comfort

These fly rugs prioritise airflow, ensuring the horse stays cool while being protected from biting insects. The mesh fabric is soft to prevent rubbing around the shoulders and withers, and while airflow remains high, insects cannot access the skin. Lightweight fly rugs are ideal for horses that feel the heat easily or for mild climates where UV and flies are the primary concern. They also work well for sporty or highly active horses that need to stay cool during turnout.

Fly Sheets with Neck Cover for Full-Body Protection

A fly sheet with a neck cover is designed for the most sensitive horses — those prone to sweet itch, allergies or intense irritation. The extended coverage protects the mane, crest, shoulders and neck from aggressive insects that would otherwise land repeatedly near the mane line. An anatomical fit ensures that the sheet stays in place without restricting movement, even during long periods of grazing.

UV-Protective Fly Rugs for Coat & Skin Preservation

Horses with light pigmented skin, fine coats or dark coat colours prone to sun bleaching benefit from UV protective fly rugs. The material blocks a substantial percentage of UV rays while remaining airy and cool. These rugs prevent coat fading, flank sunburn and mane dryness caused by prolonged direct sunlight.

Fly Rug Comparison Table – Choose the Best Option for Your Horse

Selecting based on weather alone is not enough — owners should also consider turnout time, exercise style, coat type and sensitivity level to insects.

Fit & Sizing Guide for Fly Rugs

A high-quality rug performs only if it fits correctly. A poor fit can rub the mane, tighten around the shoulders or shift during rolling and grazing.

How to Measure the Horse Correctly

1. 1. Stand the horse square and measure from the midpoint of the chest to the tail base.
   
   

2. 2. Choose a size closest to this measurement without oversizing.
   
   

3. 3. For neck-cover sheets, assess crest length to ensure full coverage without pulling.
   
   

Signs of Good Fit vs Poor Fit

Correctly fitted fly rugs:

• 1. Sit smoothly across chest and shoulders
  
  

• 2. Allow full shoulder reach without tension
  
  

• 3. Stay secure when the horse lowers its head or rolls
  
  

• 4. Cover the belly without tightness or gaping
  
  

Poor fit indicators:

• 1. Mane rubbing or hair breakage
  
  

• 2. Rug sliding sideways or backward
  
  

• 3. Pressure marks on chest or withers
  
  

• 4. Restricted stride or shortened reach when walking
  
  

A well-fitted rug ensures that fly protection does not sacrifice freedom of movement.

Performance Features to Look for in High-Quality Fly Rugs

The best fly rugs combine durability, breathability and shape stability to function in real turnout conditions. Horses move, roll, scratch, play and sweat — so fly sheets must be constructed for long-term outdoor use.

Key performance features include:

• 1. Soft breathable mesh preventing heat buildup
  
  

• 2. UV-filtering material for coat protection in intense sunshine
  
  

• 3. Anti-rub lining that protects shoulders and mane
  
  

• 4. Tail flap for wind protection and insect defence
  
  

• 5. Adjustable surcingles and leg straps to remain secure during turnout
  
  

• 6. Reinforced stitching and snag-resistant fabric for durability
  
  

• 7. Anatomical shaping for unrestricted grazing and walking behaviour
  
  

These features collectively provide coolness, freedom and all-day comfort in any turnout environment.

Care & Maintenance for Long-Lasting Fly Sheet Durability

Proper care ensures that fly rugs remain effective every season. Mesh fabric and UV-protective material require gentle handling to maintain strength and shape.

Care recommendations:

• 1. Remove dry mud and debris before washing to prevent abrasion
  
  

• 2. Hand-wash or machine-wash on a gentle cycle using equine rug detergent only
  
  

• 3. Avoid standard laundry detergents, which damage fibres and irritate skin
  
  

• 4. Air-dry the rug in the shade — never use high heat as it weakens mesh strands
  
  

• 5. Store loosely folded in a dry area, away from sharp objects to prevent snags
  
  

Regular inspections, particularly around the chest clips and surcingles, ensure continued safety and durability.

Summer Freedom and Outdoor Comfort for Every Horse

Warm-weather turnout provides invaluable benefits for mental and physical health, and fly rugs help horses enjoy those benefits without irritation. When biting flies and heat make outdoor time uncomfortable, the right rug offers instant relief and encourages natural grazing, movement and social interaction. Whether your horse needs full-coverage protection or a lightweight cooling design, fly rugs provide summer comfort without compromising airflow. With the right selection and proper fit, your horse stays calm, confident and happy during every turnout — free to enjoy the sunshine without the stress of insects.