WE TESTED...
Fly masks
Keep your horse’s face fly-free this summer
With summer on its way, we all want our horses to enjoy quality downtime and longer hours out in the fi eld. Yet for many, irritating fl ies and biting insects can throw a spanner in the works. A gold-standard fl y prevention strategy would be nothing without a fl y mask that really works – but how can you pick a product that’s sure to provide your horse with some much-needed relief?
We’ve tested a variety of masks to help you with your search for a product that’ll stand the test of time and keep those pesky biting insects at bay.
TOP TIP
If your horse has pink or sensitive skin on his face, he might benefi t from a mask with a nose net or one with added UV protection.
Photo: Jon Stroud
TOP TIP
Wearing a fly mask in low light conditions could impair your horse’s vision, so unless there’s a medical reason to keep his mask on overnight – or the benefits of keeping it on outweigh the risks for you – you may be better off removing it.
Decathlon Fouganza 500
£14.99
Fleece trimmed with a semi-rigid mesh designed to allow wide field of vision.
We say...
The elasticated edging offered a snug fit that kept out flies and, though sizing was generous, gave great coverage. The mesh stayed off the horse’s eyes and Velcro fastenings kept the mask in place. Mesh ears seemed to keep the horse cool, even during very hot weather, and overall the mask has stood up well to wear and washing. decathlon.co.uk