The Fenwick LT Therapeutic Mask; Does It Really Work?

Fenwick LT Therapeutic Horse Mask

I don't mind admitting that I'm not into gimmicks when it comes to horses. Fads and trends come and go. Some work well enough, some really don't, and my approach has always been to further your training to overcome issues.

As an owner myself though, I can see why people get caught up in trends when they want to do the best they can for their horse, especially something that seemingly calms them down and makes them less anxious.

Purpose Of The Fenwick Horse Mask

The material used in the making of the Fenwick Mask is a Far Infrared (FIR) therapy, based on the dispersion of titanium in water at the nano level by water-soluble metal technology.

The mask is designed to help increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. The brother/sister partnership that owns Fenwick first developed the mask for themselves to use while starting thoroughbred yearlings. After seeing some success they gave the product to some of their close friends also in the industry and it was an instant hit.

Fast forward to today and their operation in Camden, South Carolina churns out 600 Fenwick masks per week. It has been adopted into many corners of the industry from harness racing to eventing and showjumping, they've even developed a mesh ear bonnet that has been approved by the United States Dressage Federation (USDF).

Features Of The Fenwick Mask

• Four way stretch fabric which is machine washable

• Breathable material

• Hypo-allergenic

• Moisture wicking material

Benefits Of The Fenwick Mask

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Increase circulation

• Improve immune system

• Accelerate healing

• Pain relief

• Increased focus

My Own Experience With The Fenwick Mask

From the perspective of a trainer the Fenwick Mask seems like just a trend, and I've been in the industry long enough to see many trends come and go.

If you've spent some time showing or watching competition in the last few years odds are you've probably seen the mask in action.

I first saw it in competition a few years ago and freely admit that I thought the Fenwick Mask would be a trend to die a quick death once it had 'done the rounds'. I was wrong, it has been a huge hit, and more importantly, it works.

There are currently 2 masks at my barn that get borrowed by one another on a daily basis and used on all types of horses from opinionated mares to sensitive geldings, probably 9 or 10 horses in total. Only one of those horses had no change to their behavior, the rest saw moderate to significant improvement in relaxation.

The Fenwick Mask Itself

The mask covers the horse's ears, poll, and forehead, and features adjustable Velcro closures to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. It is available in a range of sizes to fit different breeds and head shapes.

When I first saw the mask up close I thought maybe that some horses wouldn't like the feeling of it on their face. But after seeing the masks circulate through my barn and used on a variety of horses, not a single one objected to putting it on or wearing it.

The fabric also boasts moisture-wicking and 50+ UPF-UV blocking properties and is fully machine washable, you can even put it in the dryer.

Fenwick Therapeutic Mask

The Bottom Line

The Fenwick Horse Mask, as gimmicky as it seems is here to stay, over the last few years I've seen significant growth in their use both at my home barn and at competition, and from national-level horses all the way up to FEI competitors.

If you have a horse with a track record of being nervous or anxious I would absolutely recommend giving the Fenwick Mask a try. But as with most equipment in this sport, try to find one that you can borrow first to see if it works.

Even if your horse is a 'good horse' in regards to their behavior, it would be worth trying out to see if their level of focus increases.

See Also:

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