Anyone who’s owned a horse knows the battle against flies is never-ending. Horse flies, in particular, are relentless biters, making your horse miserable and prone to injury as they try to escape the constant irritation. A good fly mask is essential for protecting your horse’s face and eyes from these pests, allowing them to graze and relax in peace. I’ve tested a bunch over the years, and some are definitely better than others at staying put and keeping the bugs out. So, let’s look at some of the best horse fly masks currently available, helping you choose the right one for your equine friend.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Mask: Known for its durability and comfortable fit.
- Shires Fine Mesh Fly Mask with Ears: Offers excellent protection with a close fit.
- Kensington Fly Mask with Fleece Trim: Combines comfort with effective fly protection.
- Professional’s Choice Comfort Fit Fly Mask: Designed for sensitive horses with a focus on comfort.
- Weaver Leather Fly Mask: A budget-friendly option that provides decent protection.
Top 5 Best Horse Fly Masks
Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Mask
The Cashel Crusader is a popular choice among horse owners for its durability and effective fly protection. It’s made from a soft, breathable mesh that keeps flies away from your horse’s face and eyes while allowing good visibility. The Crusader also features a patented three-hole cap that prevents forelock damage.
Pros:
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting
- ✅ Comfortable fit
- ✅ Prevents forelock damage
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey
- ❌ Some horses can still rub it off
- ❌ Mesh can eventually wear out with heavy use
Verdict: The Cashel Crusader is a solid investment for horse owners looking for a durable and comfortable fly mask that offers excellent protection. It’s a great option if you’re willing to spend a bit more for quality.
Shires Fine Mesh Fly Mask with Ears
The Shires Fine Mesh Fly Mask with Ears offers comprehensive protection against even the smallest flies and midges. Its fine mesh construction provides a barrier against insects while remaining breathable. The inclusion of ears offers additional protection for sensitive ears, and the adjustable closures ensure a secure fit.
Pros:
- ✅ Fine mesh for maximum protection
- ✅ Includes ear coverage
- ✅ Adjustable closures for a secure fit
Cons:
- ❌ Fine mesh might reduce visibility slightly
- ❌ Some horses might not like the ear coverage
- ❌ Can be a bit warm in very hot weather
Verdict: If you need maximum protection against small flies and midges, the Shires Fine Mesh Fly Mask with Ears is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for horses with sensitive ears.
Kensington Fly Mask with Fleece Trim
The Kensington Fly Mask with Fleece Trim combines effective fly protection with added comfort. The fleece trim around the edges prevents rubbing and irritation, making it a good choice for horses with sensitive skin. It also features a durable mesh and adjustable closures for a secure fit.
Pros:
- ✅ Fleece trim for added comfort
- ✅ Durable mesh
- ✅ Adjustable closures
Cons:
- ❌ Fleece trim can get dirty easily
- ❌ May not be as durable as some other options
- ❌ Some horses may still manage to rub it off
Verdict: The Kensington Fly Mask with Fleece Trim is a good option for horses with sensitive skin that need a comfortable fly mask. The fleece trim helps prevent rubbing and irritation, but it may require more frequent cleaning.
Professional’s Choice Comfort Fit Fly Mask
The Professional’s Choice Comfort Fit Fly Mask is designed with the horse’s comfort in mind. It features a soft, breathable mesh and a contoured fit that stays in place without being too tight. The mask also has a unique design that keeps it away from the horse’s eyes, preventing irritation.
Pros:
- ✅ Comfortable and breathable
- ✅ Contoured fit that stays in place
- ✅ Prevents eye irritation
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options
- ❌ May not be as durable as some heavier-duty masks
- ❌ Sizing can be tricky
Verdict: The Professional’s Choice Comfort Fit Fly Mask is a great choice for horses that are sensitive to fly masks or prone to irritation. Its comfortable design and secure fit make it a reliable option for everyday use, just double-check the sizing before ordering.
Weaver Leather Fly Mask
The Weaver Leather Fly Mask is a budget-friendly option that provides decent fly protection. It’s made from a durable mesh and features adjustable closures for a secure fit. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive masks, it’s a solid choice for horse owners on a budget.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable
- ✅ Durable mesh
- ✅ Adjustable closures
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as comfortable as some other options
- ❌ Limited features
- ❌ Might not last as long as more expensive masks
Verdict: If you’re looking for a basic, affordable fly mask, the Weaver Leather Fly Mask is a decent choice. It provides adequate protection and is a good option for horses that are easy on their gear.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right horse fly mask involves considering several factors to ensure your horse’s comfort and protection. Here’s a breakdown of what to keep in mind:
- Material: Look for breathable mesh that allows good airflow. Avoid materials that are too stiff or heavy, as they can cause discomfort.
- Fit: A snug but not tight fit is ideal. The mask should stay in place without rubbing or restricting movement. Adjustable closures are essential for achieving a good fit.
- Coverage: Consider whether you need ear coverage or extended nose protection. Some masks offer these features for added protection against flies and sun.
- Durability: Choose a mask made from durable materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. Reinforced seams and sturdy closures are good indicators of quality.
- Visibility: The mesh should allow good visibility so your horse can see clearly. Dark or overly fine mesh can impair vision.
- Comfort: Look for features like fleece trim or soft padding that can prevent rubbing and irritation, especially for horses with sensitive skin.
- Ease of Use: The mask should be easy to put on and take off. Simple closures and a straightforward design can make a big difference.
I’ve learned the hard way that spending a little more upfront on a higher-quality mask often saves money in the long run. Cheaper masks tend to fall apart quickly, and an ill-fitting mask is worse than no mask at all!
FAQs
Q: How often should I clean my horse’s fly mask?
A: It’s best to clean your horse’s fly mask regularly, ideally once a week or more often if it gets particularly dirty. You can usually hand wash it with mild soap and water.
Q: How do I know if the fly mask fits properly?
A: A properly fitting fly mask should be snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit a couple of fingers between the mask and your horse’s face. Make sure it doesn’t rub or restrict their movement.
Q: Can horses wear fly masks 24/7?
A: While some horses can wear fly masks 24/7, it’s generally a good idea to remove them at least once a day to check for any signs of rubbing or irritation. Also, consider removing it at night if flies aren’t as prevalent.
Q: My horse keeps rubbing his fly mask off. What can I do?
A: Make sure the mask fits properly and isn’t causing any irritation. You can also try using a fly mask with a throat latch or a more secure closure. If your horse is particularly persistent, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying skin conditions.
Q: Are all fly masks UV protective?
A: Not all fly masks offer UV protection. If you’re concerned about sun protection, look for masks that are specifically labeled as UV protective.
Conclusion
Choosing the right horse fly mask can significantly improve your horse’s comfort and well-being during fly season. By considering factors like material, fit, coverage, and durability, you can find a mask that provides effective protection and lasts for seasons to come. The Cashel Crusader and Shires Fine Mesh are great all-arounders, while the Kensington offers extra comfort. Ultimately, the best fly mask is the one that fits your horse well and meets their specific needs. Hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point!
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