Horse fly sheets are an essential piece of equipment for any horse owner looking to protect their equine friend from pesky and potentially harmful insects. These lightweight and breathable coverings not only shield horses from biting flies but also provide a barrier against harmful UV rays and can help keep your horse clean in dusty environments.
Fly sheets come in a variety of materials, sizes, and designs to suit every horse’s specific needs. The right choice for you may depend on factors such as your horse’s sensitivity to insects, the climate you live in, and your preferences for material and style. When selecting a fly sheet, it’s important to consider durability, breathability, and fit.
Durability is crucial, as you’ll want a fly sheet that can withstand rough use and exposure to the elements. Breathability ensures that your horse stays comfortable and cool without overheating, while a proper fit eliminates rubbing, discomfort, and the risk of slippage or impeding movement. It’s essential to strike a balance between protection and ease of use, as a good fly sheet should effectively shield your horse from insects and remain comfortable for long periods.
To help you find the ideal fly sheet for your horse, we’ve researched and tested various options on the market, comparing their performance in terms of durability, breathability, and fit. We believe we’ve found the top horse fly sheets that will make your horse happy and your life easier, so let’s dive in and explore them in detail.
Best Horse Fly Sheets
We have compiled a list of the best horse fly sheets to protect your equine friend from those pesky insects. Be confident in your purchase as we present our top selections below.
TuffRider Comfy MESH Fly Sheet 69 White
We highly recommend the TuffRider Comfy Mesh Fly Sheet for its breathability and durability in protecting your horse from flies.
Pros
- Durable and lightweight fabric
- Soft and breathable for your horse’s comfort
- Easy to put on with adjustable twin buckle chest closures
Cons
- Limited color options
- May cause slight tension on the shoulders
- Mosquitoes may still try to bite through the material
This TuffRider Comfy Mesh Fly Sheet has been a game changer for us when it comes to protecting our horse from flies. The fabric is both lightweight and durable, capable of withstanding our horse’s playful rolling whilst keeping them cool on warm summer days. Thanks to its softness and breathability, our horse has been able to wear it for a prolonged period without feeling stifled. Additionally, it’s effortless to put on and take off, thanks to the stainless steel twin buckle chest closures that are adjustable for a perfect fit.
However, we’ve noticed a few downsides to this fly sheet. Firstly, there aren’t many color options available, which may not be appealing if you prefer something more vibrant. Secondly, when it’s fastened, it can cause some tension on the shoulders, slightly restricting our horse’s range of motion. Lastly, mosquitoes have been known to still attempt biting through the fabric, though bites are significantly reduced.
In conclusion, the TuffRider Comfy Mesh Fly Sheet has been an overall positive experience for us and our horse. It’s durable, cooling, and easy to put on, making it an excellent choice for fly protection during the warm months. While there may be a few cons, the overall benefits outweigh the negatives, and we’re happy with our purchase.
Rugged Ride Soft Mesh Fly Sheet
The Rugged Ride Soft Mesh Fly Sheet is a valuable addition to your horse’s wardrobe for protection against insects and sun, with some minor fit issues for certain horses.
Pros
- Effective against insects and sun
- Durable and sturdy material
- Wide range of size options
Cons
- May rub on certain horse breeds
- Not ideal for active horses
- Top neck portion may not be protective enough
We recently tried out the Rugged Ride Soft Mesh Fly Sheet for our horses, and we have to say, it caught our attention. The fine mesh material not only keeps those pesky biting insects at bay, but it also offers protection from the sun’s harsh rays. As a result, our horses stayed cool and comfortable during those hot summer days.
The durability of the sheet impressed us. Despite being fine mesh, it held up well, even with our feisty 2-year-old horse wearing it. The sheet comes with low cross surcingles, double buckle front closure, tail cover, and leg straps, ensuring a secure fit. What we appreciated most was the broad range of size options available, catering to various horse sizes.
However, it wasn’t all perfect. We did notice that the sheet rubbed and caused some irritation on our quarter horse mare, so it might not be suitable for all horse breeds. Additionally, the top neck portion seemed to provide less sun protection, ultimately causing some raw skin in just a day. This issue suggests that the sheet might be more suitable for stall horses rather than those spending extended periods outdoors.
In conclusion, the Rugged Ride Soft Mesh Fly Sheet offers excellent insect and sun protection with a sturdy build but may present fit issues for certain horse breeds. We recommend it for horses spending more time indoors than out and considering your horse’s breed before purchase.
HILASON 75 Inches Horse Fly Sheet
The HILASON Horse Fly Sheet is a reliable and economical choice for those seeking to protect their horses from insects and UV rays.
Pros
- High-quality Poly/nylon mesh material allowing air circulation
- UV protection for your horse
- Adjustable closures and leg straps for a secure fit
Cons
- May not be durable enough for horses that frequently roll
- Neck hood could potentially slip if not attached to a halter
- Sizing can be slightly confusing with extra expandable piece
Upon receiving our HILASON Horse Fly Sheet, we were impressed by the vibrant Turquoise color with black piping. The high-quality Poly/nylon mesh material allows for excellent air circulation, keeping our horse cool while also warding off insects and providing crucial UV protection.
The double buckle front and quick grip closure for both the neck and belly wrap made adjusting and securing the fit of the sheet much easier. Additionally, the adjustable leg straps and two gussets allowed for optimum freedom of movement without compromising the sheet’s secure fit.
While the overall quality of the HILASON Horse Fly Sheet was pleasing, we noticed that it may not be the best choice for horses that frequently roll, as it could be prone to tearing. Moreover, the neck hood may sometimes require attaching to a halter to prevent slipping. Lastly, we found the sizing to be a bit confusing due to the extra expandable piece near the front legs, which may require trial and error to find the perfect fit for your horse.
In conclusion, the HILASON Horse Fly Sheet is a solid choice for those seeking a breathable, adjustable, and affordable fly sheet that provides UV protection for their horse. However, if your horse is more prone to rolling or requires more precise sizing, you may want to consider other options.
Shires Tempest Original Horse Fly Sheet (White, 81″)
The Shires Tempest Original Horse Fly Sheet is a reliable option for protecting your horse from flies and sun damage while ensuring comfort.
Pros
- Effective UV reflective fabric
- Lined chest and seams to prevent rubbing
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
Cons
- Neck wrap not included
- May not fit all horse sizes perfectly
- Limited color options
When we first put the Shires Tempest Original Horse Fly Sheet on our horse, we immediately noticed how well the mesh fabric reflected the sun. This feature is essential for preventing sun bleach and keeping your horse’s coat healthy. Furthermore, the lining on the chest and all seams added extra comfort, helping to prevent rubbing and irritation.
The Shires fly sheet comes with chest straps and adjustable cross surcingles that allow for a snug fit. We found it easy to adjust and secure on our horse, ensuring it stayed in place without slipping. However, some horse owners may find the sizing a bit challenging to get just right.
One notable drawback is that the Shires Tempest Original Horse Fly Sheet does not come with a neck wrap. This component would have provided additional coverage and protection for the horse’s neck. Additionally, the fly sheet is only available in white, limiting the choices for those who prefer more colorful options.
Overall, the Shires Tempest Original Horse Fly Sheet offers suitable protection against flies and sun damage. The adjustable straps and lined material ensure a comfortable fit for your horse. While it does not come with a neck wrap and may be tricky to size for some horses, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, making this fly sheet a worthwhile investment for your horse’s comfort and health.
TuffRider Sport Mesh Combo Neck Fly Sheet
We highly recommend this TuffRider Sport Mesh Combo Neck Fly Sheet for its breathability, durability, and overall protection.
Pros
- Strong, soft, and breathable material
- Integrated, non-removable neckpiece
- Adjustable low cross surcingles
Cons
- Might run small in size
- Neck portion may be short
- Material may tear after heavy use
In our experience, the TuffRider Sport Mesh Combo Neck Fly Sheet is a versatile pick for horse owners. The polyester fabric is strong and soft, providing a comfortable fit for our horses while also remaining breathable during those hot summer days. The integrated, non-removable neck piece adds an extra layer of protection from pesky flies.
However, we found that the sizing may run a bit small, so consider going up a size when purchasing. The neck portion could be a tad short, which may cause it to sit tightly against the horse’s neck and potentially shift during movement. Despite these issues, we loved the adjustable low cross surcingles, which allowed us to find the perfect fit for our horses.
The TuffRider Sport Mesh Combo Neck Fly Sheet is constructed with stainless steel twin buckle chest closures for added durability. Although some users report that the material may tear after consistent heavy use, we believe it’s worth considering for its overall performance and affordability.
In summary, the TuffRider Sport Mesh Combo Neck Fly Sheet may not be perfect for every horse, but its strong, breathable fabric, integrated neck piece, and adjustable surcingles make it an excellent choice for many riders looking for a fly sheet that delivers both comfort and protection.
Buying Guide
When looking to purchase a horse fly sheet, it is important to consider various factors that can affect the comfort and effectiveness of the product. In this buying guide, we will discuss the key features to look for when selecting the best fly sheet for your horse.
Material
The material of the fly sheet plays a crucial role in its durability and breathability. Common materials used in fly sheets include mesh, polyester, and nylon. Mesh is typically the most breathable option, allowing air to flow through easily and keeping your horse cool. Polyester and nylon are both lightweight materials, with nylon being slightly more durable.
Fit and sizing
A well-fitting fly sheet is essential to ensure your horse’s comfort. Measurements should be taken from the center of the chest to the center of the tail. It is important to choose a fly sheet that allows for freedom of movement, ensuring it doesn’t cause rubbing or chafing. Keep in mind that some manufacturers may have different sizing systems, so always refer to their specific sizing guide.
UV protection
In addition to protecting against flies, many fly sheets also provide UV protection. This can help prevent sunburn and fading of your horse’s coat color. Look for fly sheets that have a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates the level of protection provided.
Closure and fastening systems
Ensure the closures and fastenings are secure and easy to use. Common options include buckles, snaps, and hook-and-loop closures. A combination of these fastenings may be used to ensure a secure fit. Additionally, look for features such as belly bands or leg straps, which help keep the fly sheet in place during movement.
Care and maintenance
Fly sheets may require regular cleaning, especially during peak fly season. Choose a fly sheet that is easy to clean and maintain, preferably one that is machine washable. Check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer for specific guidelines.
By considering these factors and prioritizing your horse’s comfort and safety, you can confidently select the best horse fly sheet for your equine companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which fly sheets provide the best protection in hot weather?
In hot weather, we recommend fly sheets with lightweight, breathable materials that allow for good air circulation. Some popular options include polyester mesh, soft mesh, and textilene mesh. These materials not only protect the horse from pests but also help keep the horse cool and comfortable.
Are there fly sheets with belly bands available?
Yes, there are fly sheets with belly bands available. Belly bands provide extra protection from flies and insects in the horse’s sensitive belly area. Some brands that offer fly sheets with belly bands include Weatherbeeta, Horseware, and Kensington.
What are the differences between mesh and regular fly sheets?
Mesh fly sheets are designed with a breathable, open-weave fabric, which provides added air circulation and keeps the horse cooler in warmer weather. Regular fly sheets may be made of more solid materials, offering a smoother appearance but potentially less breathability. In general, mesh fly sheets are recommended for use in hot climates or during summer months.
How do SmartPak and Schneiders fly sheets compare?
SmartPak and Schneiders both offer high-quality fly sheets, but they differ in some features and price points. SmartPak fly sheets are known for their fit, durability, and value, while Schneiders focuses on offering a wide range of styles and a generous fit. It’s essential to consider your horse’s needs and preferences when choosing a fly sheet.
Which fly sheets come with neck covers?
Many fly sheets come with either detachable or integrated neck covers to provide additional protection against flies and insects. Brands such as Rambo, Amigo, Weatherbeeta, and Kensington offer fly sheets with neck covers. Be sure to check the product description to see if a specific fly sheet includes a neck cover.
Do horses overheat while wearing fly sheets?
Although fly sheets provide an extra layer, they are typically made of lightweight, breathable materials designed to keep the horse comfortable in warmer weather. While there is always a risk of a horse overheating when wearing any additional layer, choosing a fly sheet with the right material and fit can minimize the risk. It’s crucial to monitor your horse’s comfort and adjust the fly sheet as needed.
Last Updated on August 27, 2023 by Nate Dewsbury
