Fly Sheets For Horses

Depending on where you live in the world fly sheets for your horse may be essential during the summer months. Insect bites can be stressful for your horse and sometimes harmful if there are a lot of them.

If you're somewhere that gets particularly sunny, you own a grey horse and are worried about melanomas, or maybe a black or dark bay that you don't want sun-bleached, you'll also want to consider UV protection.

I've been through many fly sheets and it seems that the one thing that some brands don't get right is fit, especially through the neck area.

I like to be able to turn my horses out all day so it's important to me that they are comfortable in their fly sheets, as well as protected from flies and insects, so be careful which one you choose for your horse.

Here's a rundown of some of the models I've owned and used over the years.

Most Durable - Rambo Protector

I've used this fly sheet on my stallion for 3 years now and am very impressed by how durable it is. He has damaged or destroyed many blankets in his time with me but this one won't back down, yes it's got some scars but it's still perfectly usable despite his efforts.

It fits really well everywhere and is nice and roomy allowing for freedom of movement. The self-repairing material is a nice feature, it has a silky lining to protect vulnerable areas from rubbing and also provides belly protection.

Pros: It might just be indestructible, nice roomy fly sheet

Cons: A little pricey, but it'll last a long time

Rambo Protector

10% Off Entire Order

Most Lightweight - Rambo Flybuster Vamoose

This is another fly sheet that I have used extensively in the past on a horse that was difficult to fit due to her wide shoulders but this was great. She liked to be really active during turnout and had no issues wearing this fly sheet.

Horseware Ireland has used its self-repairing fabric on this sheet. It's very durable and also offers UV protection, as well as keeping biting insects off your horse's body.

Pros: Great sturdy fly sheet, neck cover fits well.

Cons: Very little to complain about, although I don't think it'll outlast the Protector

Rambo Vamoose

10% Off Entire Order

Most Practical - Bucas Buzz Off Full Neck Rain Sheet

If you purchase a second fly sheet this would be a really good choice, especially for those random summer showery days when it's not quite cool enough for regular rain sheets.

I had a client with one of these and always thought it was really practical. As with all Bucas products it fits great, they're really well made and are very durable, Bucas is known for the extreme durability of their products.

The top panels are made with waterproof polyester while the sides are a soft mesh fabric to protect your horse from insects and flies.

Pros: Really practical fly sheet, tough

Cons: I wouldn't use it as your only fly sheet as it wouldn't be suitable for very warm weather, doesn't have belly protection.

Bucas Buzz Off

Also Available in Zebra Color

10% Off Entire Order

Most UV Protection - Rambo Optimo Supreme Sheet

The only reason this isn't the first choice as a fly sheet for my grand prix stallion is that I try to find a balance between cost and durability for him as he's very hard on his sheets.

But if you're looking for the absolute best for your horse this is it. And if you're particularly worried about your grey horse during those hot sunny days these sheets offer 90% protection from harmful UV rays.

As with all Horseware Ireland products it fits great, and is durable, and for most horses, it may end up being a one-time purchase as they last very well.

Pros: The ultimate fly sheet for your horse, offers superb 90% protection from UV rays.

Cons: Definitely expensive but it'll keep your horse happy when the flies are bad.

Rambo Optimo

10% Off Entire Order

Most Value - Amigo Mio Fly Sheet

This is a really good fly sheet for the price. I was given one of these by a client who sold their horse so I used it on my stallion for a little while. It took him just a couple of weeks to destroy it but if you have a horse with less destructive tendencies I think it would be a great fly sheet.

It fit him really well, the front clasps are two classic t-locks, which means you don't have to worry about velcro wearing out. The neck cover isn't detachable but personally, I wouldn't bother having one without a neck cover anyway.

Pros: Excellent value for a fly sheet, classic t-lock closure front.

Cons: Might not last as long as the more durable models but still a good purchase.

Amigo Mio

10% Off Entire Order

Additional Ways To Protect Your Horse From Flies And Insect Bites

A good fly mask is a great addition to keep flies from your horse's face, and more recently fly boots have started becoming popular. Both of these are particularly useful if you have a horse with sensitive skin or a grey horse that needs extra protection from UV rays.

See Also:

Best Horse Blankets Review, My Top 10 Picks