Fly masks protect your horse’s eyes and face from irritating biting insects, UV rays, and dust. In this blog, we combed through thousands of reviews to present our list of the 7 best fly masks for horses, taking into consideration factors such as comfort, durability, airflow, insect protection level, and more! Each fly mask is described with its unique features to help horse owners make an informed decision when choosing the best fly mask for their horse.
What’s the best material for a fly mask?
The best material for a fly mask is durable, breathable mesh High-quality fly masks are typically made from fine, UV-protective mesh fabric that effectively shields a horse’s face and eyes from flies, mosquitoes, and other biting insects, while still allowing for excellent airflow.
Key characteristics of the best fly mask materials include:
- Durability: Sturdy woven polyester or nylon mesh resists tears and withstands the wear of pasture use.
- Breathability: The lightweight mesh allows for maximum air circulation, preventing heat buildup.
- UV Protection: Many premium fly masks offer UV-blocking properties to protect sensitive eyes and skin from sun damage.
- Soft Edging: Comfortable fleece or lycra trims around the edges help prevent rubbing and irritation.
When selecting a fly mask, it’s important to consider your horse's needs, environment, and activity level. Mesh fly masks strike the ideal balance between protection, comfort, and durability.
The 7 Best Fly Masks for Horses
- Schneiders® Dura-Mesh II Fly Mask with Ears - The Most Durable
- Schneiders® Mosquito Mesh II Fly Mask with Ears
- Schneiders® Ripstop Nylon Mesh II Fly Masks
- Schneiders® X-Spand® Mosquito Mesh II Fly Masks
- UltraFlex® Comfort Plus Bug Eye Fly Masks
- Schneiders® Dura-Mesh Designer Fly Masks
- Schneiders® Dura-Mesh Zebra Fly Mask with Ears
In our opinion, the best fly mask for horses overall (and the most durable) is the Schneiders® Dura-Mesh II Fly Mask with Ears This fly mask with ears is a perfect option for any horse who needs protection from pesky insects from a durable mask. Designed with 1000D polyvinyl Dura-Mesh, your horse can see clearly through the mask while remaining shielded from harmful bugs. With mesh ears to keep bugs away, this mask features fleece-covered elastic binding around the nose and crown, ensuring a comfortable fit that reduces rubbing points, even when worn for extended periods 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.
Your favorite fly mask, featuring the best insect protection, is back with a new reflective strip down the face and a hook-and-loop closure for added safety. The mask uses a 350D extra fine "window screen" nylon mesh that allows for the best airflow, stays cool in direct sunlight with a 40% UV protection rating, and provides an optimal shield from the most minor biting bugs, including tiny gnats. It's perfect for horses living in hot, buggy climates that need a mask to protect them from insect bites.
The Ripstop Mesh fly masks are even 'cooler' with their updated pattern design. It's constructed from a 300D textured, comfortable, and breathable nylon mesh material, providing the BEST airflow with mesh ear coverage. This fly mask protects your horse or pony from small gnats, midges, and medium-sized flies, such as stable and deer flies. The 40% UV protection rating shields your horse from the harsh sun while they play in the pasture.
Now you can get the most comfortable-fitting fly mask, featuring reflective trim along the mask and on the hook and loop closure for added safety precautions. This mask combines our 350D extra fine "window screen" nylon mesh with a Lycra material jaw, allowing your horse to move their jaw naturally without restriction while keeping bugs out - ensuring the most comfortable fit for all-day weare. Available with or without ears, the X-Spand® mask also blocks up to 40% of the sun's damaging UV rays while providing plenty of airflow to ensure your horse is happy.
If you're looking for a securely fitting fly mask, look no further. Durable and comfortable enough for all-day wear, this mask is constructed from a 4-way stretch 8oz. Lycra material with oversized eye holes covered with a dark 2oz. Mesh. With light play durability and an impressive 95% UV protection rating, 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.
Outfit your horse in a fun fly mask with funny patterns that will make you laugh. This mask is available in multiple designs. 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 they'll be shielded from biting bugs all season.
Outfit your horse in the "wild" Dura-Mesh Zebra Fly Mask with Ears that's constructed from our 1000D poly vinyl Dura-Mesh that offers the best durability. 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, and a 70% UV protection rating, shielding your horse from the harsh sun.
