Focus on fly rugs What options are on the market?
Flies are the enemy of the equine, but an inevitable part of summer. Alex Robinson investigates the fly rug options on the market
THERE’S a rug for every situation now, but arguably the one that’s increased in popularity the most is the fly rug. Owners have got wise to the value of protecting horses against flies and insects, which fill the air during the warmer months.
“Fly rugs act as a barrier against biting insects,” says Rachel Bowles from Harry Hall. “Recent developments in materials have helped us create rugs which are breathable and lightweight, allowing your horse to be both comfortable and safe from flies.”
As the weather improves, many horses will spend the nights outside. Rachel recommends a rug boasting a waterproof section over the back of the horse to cover all eventualities.
“This keeps the horse cooler on summer evenings yet keeps them dry during showers,” she says. “Other features to look for in fly rugs include anti-rub material and an ergonomic neck. Finally, make sure that the material is durable but highly breathable, something demonstrated in the Fieldmasta fly rug.”
As well as a lower section made of mesh, which encourages air flow, the Fieldmasta also boasts a clever dome neck to prevent mane loss. Similarly, the extra-long sides found on the Bucas Buzz-Off X rug help to circulate air around the horse’s legs. The belly pad ensures the whole body is covered.
ONE of the most common mistakes owners make when it comes to fly rugs is the choice of material; many select the wrong strength of fabric for their needs.
“The quality and durability of a fabric will be reflected in both the denier and the price of a rug,” says Horseware’s Sonja Obermayer. “When comparing the denier of the same fabric, the higher the denier, the more yarns within the threads, the thicker and therefore stronger the overall fabric will be.
“It’s important to note that each fabric is inherently different in strength. A natural fabric such as cotton will be lighter and less durable than a man-made fabric such as polyester. Additionally, higher-denier fabrics tend to have a higher price point. Natural fabric or blended rugs such as polycottons may offer superior breathability and UV protection, while the higher-denier polyesters may last for a longer period against scratching.”
“Make sure the rug is highly breathable”
HARRY HALL’S RACHEL BOWLES
When tackling concerns around UV exposure or photosensitisation, Horseware has launched its first natural fabric summer sheet, the Rambo Natura (pictured, right), which is composed of a hemp cotton blend outer fabric. Hemp is naturally breathable, biodegradable and UV-protective.
“This style is suited to horses who are prone to UV irritations as well as coat bleaching,” continues Sonja. “The impact of photosensitisation on horses prone to this can be uncomfortable and unsightly. The Rambo Natura offers natural, comfortable protection.”
FOR the owner who isn’t wanting to break the bank, the Derby House Classic fly rug is the ideal solution. “This is the most affordable of our collection and is a perfectly good option for a lot of horses,” explains Nikita Norman from Derby House. “Its lightweight fabric is suited to horses with a darker coat who may be more prone to overheating in hot weather.
“If your horse suffers with skin conditions, or you’d like also to shield against rain, then it’s wise to spend a bit more to benefit from extra features such as interlocking mesh or waterproofing.”
If your horse needs that extra level of defence, choose something with more than the standard features, such as UV protection or a full belly wrap.
“For sensitive horses, the rug not only needs to be able to provide a good fit, but also have added features,” adds Nikita. “The Derby House Elite Fly Stopper provides a 300-denier interlocking polyester mesh, a nylon-lined crest and shoulder area to prevent rubs, fullcoverage belly flap, long tail flap, plus multiple gussets for freedom of movement. This is also a great, durable choice for rug wreckers.”