Fly Rugs & Masks


Frequently Asked Questions

Which fly rug is best for a horse with sweet itch?

For sweet itch horses, choose a full combo fly rug with neck cover and belly wrap to minimise exposed skin. Weatherbeeta and Shires both offer specialist sweet itch rugs designed to block midges effectively. A fly mask with ear coverage is also advisable. Look for tight-woven, breathable fabrics rated for midge protection — standard mesh fly rugs may not provide sufficient coverage for sweet itch management.

What size fly rug does my horse need?

Fly rugs are sized in the same way as standard horse rugs — measured in feet and inches from the centre of the chest to the tail. Most brands offer Pony, Cob, and Full sizes. If your horse is between sizes, sizing up gives a more comfortable fit. Always check the individual product page for brand-specific size guides, as sizing can vary between Weatherbeeta, LeMieux, and Shires.

Can fly masks be worn overnight or in the stable?

Most horse fly masks are designed for daytime turnout use and should be removed at night to allow the horse to rest comfortably. Some close-fitting options such as the LeMieux ArmourShield Pro are suitable for extended wear, but always monitor your horse for signs of rubbing or discomfort. Remove fly masks daily to check the skin and eyes underneath.

Do fly masks protect against UV rays as well as insects?

Many horse fly masks offer a degree of UV protection, particularly those with full-face coverage and UV-blocking mesh. If UV protection is a priority — for example, for horses with pink muzzles or photosensitive skin — look for products that specify a UV rating on the product page. Weatherbeeta and LeMieux both offer fly masks with tested UV protection ratings in our range.

What is the difference between a fly rug and a sweet itch rug?

A standard mesh fly rug provides a breathable barrier against flies and larger biting insects. A sweet itch rug is made from tighter-woven fabric specifically designed to block midges — the tiny insects responsible for sweet itch — and usually includes full belly, neck, and tail coverage. If your horse shows signs of sweet itch, a specialist sweet itch rug offers significantly better protection than a standard fly rug.