As responsible horse owners, safeguarding our equine companions from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays is paramount, especially during long hours spent outdoors. UV exposure can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and even more serious health concerns in horses. In this blog, we'll explore a curated selection of fly masks equipped with UV protection features that shield your horse's sensitive face and eyes from pesky insects and provide an added layer of defense against harmful UV rays.
What to Look for in a UV Fly Mask
When choosing a UV fly mask for your horse, it’s essential to look for features that provide both protection and comfort. The best UV fly masks offer:
- High UV-blocking capabilities to shield your horse’s eyes and sensitive facial areas from sun damage.
- Breathable mesh materials that allow for airflow while keeping flies out.
- Soft fleece or Lycra linings around the edges to prevent rubbing and irritation.
- Secure fastenings like double Velcro or stretch fabric to ensure the mask stays in place during turnout.
- Optional ear and nose coverage, especially for horses with pink skin or prone to sunburn.
Not only does a quality UV fly mask defend against insects, but it also protects against long-term sun exposure, helping prevent conditions like ocular squamous cell carcinoma in light-colored horses.
Fly Masks with the Best UV Protection
Check out these top picks, which prioritize functionality and sun safety. They'll ensure your horse stays comfortable and protected during sunny days in the pasture.
- UltraFlex® Comfort Plus Bug Eye Fly Masks
- Schneiders® UltraFlex® Comfort Plus Bug Eye Limited Edition Hawaiian Pull-On Fly Mask
- Schneiders® Dura-Mesh II Fly Mask with Ears
- Schneiders® Dura-Mesh Designer Fly Masks
- Schneiders® Dura-Mesh Zebra Fly Mask with Ears
- Cashel® Crusader™ Fly Masks
We chose the UltraFlex® Comfort Plus Bug Eye as the Best Fly Mask With UV Protection because it offers an incredibly impressive 95% UV Protection rating, and it’s comfortable enough for all-day wear. It’s constructed from a 4-way stretch 8oz. Lycra material with oversized eye holes covered with a dark 2oz. Mesh. Your horse will be protected from irritating gnats, midges, and medium-sized flies all day. This fly mask is available in a smooth and comfortable pull-on or zipper option for easy on and off, as well as forelock-saving options that allow the forelock to lie outside the mask, preventing it from getting in your horse's eyes.
This is the same impressive fly mask as above, with a 95% UV Protection Rating, but in a brand-new limited-edition Hawaiian design. Constructed from 4-way stretch lycra with oversized mesh-covered eye-holes, this secure-fitting pull-on mask is durable and comfortable enough for all-day wear. Your horse will be protected from irritating gnats, midges, and medium-sized flies all day. This fly mask is available in a smooth and comfortable pull-on option for easy on and off and a forelock-saving design that allows the forelock to lie outside the mask, preventing it from getting into your horse's eyes. Plus, the soft mesh ears keep even the smallest flies and biting insects out of your horse's sensitive ears.
Back and better than ever, this durable fly mask with a 70% UV Protection rating now features an added reflective strip down the face and on the hook and loop closures for extra safety precautions. This fly mask with ears is a perfect option for any horse who needs protection from pesky insects from a durable mask. Designed with a 1000D poly vinyl Dura-Mesh, your horse can see clearly through the mask and remain shielded from harmful bugs. With mesh ears to keep the bugs away, this mask offers fleece-covered elastic binding around the nose and crown, ensuring a comfortable fit that reduces rub points, even if worn for long hours during turnout. Plus, the slot at the poll allows for an easy neck cover attachment, while the hook and loop assist throat latch closure provides a secure fit for your horse's face.
Outfit your horse in a fun fly mask with funny patterns that will make you laugh, such as a cow, granny, or pirate design. They're durable and provide 70% UV protection, so you can feel confident that your horse is ALWAYS protected. Your horse will not only look great but also be shielded from biting bugs all season.
Outfit your horse in the "wild" zebra print fly mask that offers the best durability and a 70% UV Protection rating. It’s constructed from our 1000D poly vinyl Dura-Mesh in a zebra-print pattern. Several studies have indicated that the zebra pattern design can confuse flies, deterring them from landing on your horse. Plus, this mask is designed with breathable mesh ears, allowing air flow. It is also comfortable and convenient for all-day wear, with fleece-covered elastic binding around the nose and crown and a slot at the poll for an easy neck cover attachment. You can quickly secure the mask with a hook and loop assist throat latch closure.
Outfit your horse in a comfortable and protective Cashel® Crusader™ Fly Mask that has a 70% UV protection rating. The material is designed with soft yet durable plastic-coated mesh that allows air to flow through and keeps small, irritating insects out. You'll find options with or without ears and even an extended nose option with ears for optimal protection. This mask also blocks up to 70% of the sun's damaging UV rays, protecting your horse's eyes and soft tissue while preventing painful sunburns.
In conclusion, prioritizing UV protection for your horse through a specialized fly mask is essential for maintaining their well-being and overall health. Through our exploration of the best fly masks for UV protection in this guide, we've highlighted masks that offer reliable defense against both insects and harmful UV rays while providing optimal comfort and fit for your equine companion. Whether you're seeking maximum coverage, breathable materials, or added features such as ear protection, a UV-protective fly mask is available to suit your horse's specific needs.
