As the warmer months roll in, so do the midges, flies, and biting insects that can quickly turn a pleasant hack or schooling session into a frustrating, uncomfortable experience for both horse and rider. If your horse becomes irritable, distracted, or even distressed when flies are bad, it’s time to think about how you can adapt their riding setup for better protection.
From nose nets and fly hoods to fly repellents and fly rugs for post-ride comfort, there are plenty of simple, effective ways to support your horse and make summer riding more enjoyable.
Start with the Face: Protecting Ears, Eyes and Nostrils
The most sensitive areas for many horses are the ears, eyes, and muzzle. These areas are often the first to attract flies, especially during exercise when the horse is warm and sweating.
A breathable, well-fitted fly hood is a great place to start. Many riders use fly hoods under their bridle during ridden work to prevent flies from irritating the ears and poll area. Choose a design that fits comfortably without interfering with the bridle or reins.
If your horse shows signs of headshaking, nose rubbing, or sneezing in warm, dusty or pollen-heavy conditions, a nose net for horses can be a game-changer. Designed for ridden use only, nose nets attach to the bridle and act as a physical barrier against flies, dust and airborne irritants. They're especially helpful for horses with mild headshaking syndrome triggered by summer allergens.
Don’t Skip the Fly Repellent
While physical barriers work well, they’re even more effective when used alongside a quality fly repellent or sweet itch treatment. Spray repellents can help reduce the number of flies landing on your horse during exercise, while cream-based products can be used in sensitive areas like the face or under the saddle pad.
If your horse is prone to rubbing or sweet itch, applying a soothing fly repellent before tacking up can reduce irritation during your ride.
Ridden Comfort: Choose Lightweight, Breathable Tack
Flies aren’t the only challenge during summer rides – heat and humidity can make both horse and rider uncomfortable. Opt for lightweight, breathable saddle pads with moisture-wicking properties to help regulate temperature under the saddle. Mesh-backed designs from top brands like LeMieux and WeatherBeeta are ideal for improving airflow and reducing sweat build-up.
For riders, our selection of riding tights and technical base layers offers comfort without compromising performance. These pieces are designed with quick-dry, stretch fabrics to keep you cool, supported, and focused in the saddle throughout the warmer months.
Aftercare Matters: Keep Flies Off Post-Ride
Once your ride is over, don’t forget about aftercare. Warm, sweaty horses are a magnet for flies – especially when standing near muck heaps or grassy turnout areas. Giving your horse a quick wash-down with cool water or using a no-rinse body wash helps remove sweat, dirt, and odours that attract insects. It also aids muscle recovery and keeps their coat in top condition during the warmer months.
After washing down, a breathable fly rug can help keep your horse protected while they cool off in the stable or field. These rugs offer full-body coverage with lightweight mesh to allow airflow, making them ideal for warm but buggy conditions. If your horse stays out overnight, choose a fly rug with a belly flap and tail cover for maximum protection against biting insects.
Top Tips for Fly-Season Riding Success
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Ride earlier or later in the day when flies are less active.
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Avoid hacking near still water or woodland edges, where midges tend to gather.
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Clean gear regularly, as sweat and dust attract insects.
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Use a combination of physical barriers (like fly hoods and nose nets) and repellents for the best results.
Build Your Complete Fly-Season Riding Setup
Tackling flies effectively is all about layering your approach – just like you would with your horse’s winter wardrobe. From nose nets and fly hoods to repellents and fly rugs, it’s easy to customise your kit to suit your horse’s needs.
Every horse is different – some will tolerate flies better than others, while some need a bit more support during peak season. But with the right combination of products, you can keep your horse comfortable, focused, and happy all summer long.
