As horse owners, we understand the importance of keeping our horses comfortable and protected from insects, especially during turnout. That's where fly sheets come into play, offering a barrier against flies, mosquitoes, and other bothersome insects while allowing your horse to enjoy their time outside. This comprehensive guide will delve into fly sheets, exploring the best options to ensure your horse stays cool, comfortable, and bug-free during turnout.
What to Look for in the Best Fly Sheets for Turnout
Not all fly sheets are made equal, especially regarding turnout. The best fly sheets for turnout are designed to endure outdoor conditions while keeping your horse cool, protected, and comfortable. Whether your horse is turned out for a few hours or all day, here’s what sets high-quality turnout fly sheets apart:
- Durable mesh materials: Turnout sheets must resist tearing and stand up to playful pasturemates. Look for interlocking mesh or heavy-duty polyester blends that maintain structure and airflow.
- UV protection: A quality fly sheet will block harmful sun rays - even up to 80% - to help protect your horse’s coat and skin.
- Freedom of movement: Features like shoulder gussets, contoured cuts, and adjustable surcingles ensure your horse can move naturally without rubbing or slipping.
- Secure closures and coverage: Tail flaps, belly bands, and strong front buckles help keep the sheet in place, even during rough turnout or rolling.
- Comfort-enhancing features: Look for fleece padding at the withers, moisture-wicking liners, and breathable design elements that reduce heat buildup and prevent irritation.
When you're evaluating a fly sheet, quality construction makes a noticeable difference. A thoughtfully designed turnout sheet won’t just hold up longer - it also supports your horse’s overall comfort and well-being throughout fly season.
The Top 6 Best Fly Sheets for Turnout
- Schneiders® Soft Interlock Mesh II High Neck Euro Surcingle Fly Sheet
- Schneiders® Soft Interlock Mesh II Attached Neck Euro Bellyband Fly Sheet
- Schneiders® Cooling Soft Interlock Mesh II Attached Neck Euro Surcingle Fly Sheet
- Schneiders® Soft Interlock Mesh II Attached Neck Euro Bellyband Zebra Fly Sheet
- Schneiders® Ripstop Nylon Mesh II Euro Surcingle Fly Sheet
- Schneiders® RipGuard V-Free® Adjusta-Fit® Bellyband Fly Sheet
This is a great fly sheet choice for turnout because it provides the best UV protection for your horse. It’s designed with an adjustable surcingle closure for fit in our High Neck Euro fit that's comfortable for any breed and fully covers their shoulders and withers with additional coverage halfway of the neck. These sheets are made from a soft and comfortable 300D polyester interlock mesh material, offering an impressive 80% UV protection level and the best protection against small to medium-sized insects, like gnats and flies. Plus, it features NEW reflective stripes for safety and SilverTek™ technology with antibacterial nylon lining on the chest, shoulders, and tail flap.
This is another sheet with the best UV protection, but with an attached neck and bellyband closure protects your horse from irritating insects and harmful UV rays from ears to tail. These sheets are made from a soft and comfortable 300D polyester interlock mesh material, offering an impressive 80% UV protection level and the best protection against small to medium-sized insects, like gnats and flies. Plus, it features NEW reflective stripes for safety and SilverTek™ technology with antibacterial nylon lining on the chest, shoulders, and tail flap.
This 'cooling' fly sheet with an attached neck is your go-to when the weather gets hot due to its advanced technical material that cools your horse. We blended our soft, opaque 300D polyester mesh with a combination of 45% polyester cooling yarn and 55% nylon cooling yarn to create a material that cools and inhibits sweating. The fly sheet cools off as your horse heats up, keeping your horse as comfortable as possible. It protects your horse from small to medium-sized bugs, such as gnats and flies, and offers exceptional 80% UV protection, with a fleece comfort strip at the wither and higher gussets for better mobility. With new reflective stripes for safety and added SilverTek™ technology, you'll love all the benefits this unique fly sheet offers.
Bring out your horse's wild side with this Zebra Fly Sheet with an attached neck and new reflective stripes and SilverTek™ technology on the chest, shoulders, and tail flap lining. Not only will your horse stand out with the amazing zebra pattern, but they'll be protected from harmful UV rays. The 300D soft and comfortable polyester mesh offers 80% UV protection, allows for airflow in moderate to warm climates, and has reliable insect protection from small to medium-sized biting insects, such as gnats and flies. It's available in our Attached Neck Euro fit that conforms to all breeds. The zebra pattern is fun but also functional. Studies have shown that the zebra print deters flies from landing on your horse.
With this fly sheet with an adjustable surcingle closure, you'll have the added confidence that your horse will be more comfortable during the summer. It's constructed from a 300D textured, shiny, reflective nylon mesh that allows the greatest airflow. The absence of side seams reduces the likelihood of rips or tears in those areas, and the contour back seam provides a better fit and increased comfort for the horse. It includes NEW reflective stripes for safety and SilverTek™ technology with antibacterial nylon lining on the chest, shoulders, and tail. It protects your horse from small to medium-sized insects, such as gnats and flies, while providing 40% UV protection.
Tears and snags are bound to happen during turnout, but this Fly Sheet is the best self-repairing sheet. The V-Free® Wither Relief fit is designed to relieve pressure on low to moderate-withered horses, such as Arabians, Quarter Horses, and other Stock breed horses. The advanced diamond interwoven mesh works like magic when it self-repairs against snags that could later turn into tears. When you see a snag, you simply rub the fabric between your hands to repair the fabric. Designed for horses that like to play hard in the pasture, these sheets deliver fantastic protection against small to medium-sized insects, such as gnats and flies. Plus, the 70% UV protection rating keeps them safe from the sun.
Investing in the right fly sheet for your horse can make a difference in their comfort and well-being during turnout. Whether you prioritize durability, breathability, or full-body coverage, there's a fly sheet to suit your horse's needs. By considering factors such as material, fit, and additional features like UV protection and belly coverage, you can make an informed decision that will keep your equine companion happy and healthy throughout the fly season.
