Buzzing flies and stomping hooves. It’s a daily battle for our beloved horses. But worry not, there’s a solution. Fly boots.
These nifty gear pieces are here to save the day. In this post, we’ll dive into the best fly boots out there.
We’ll cover what makes each pair stand out and why your horse will thank you. Whether you’ve got a seasoned racer or a gentle giant, we’ve got the perfect fit.
Ready to give those pesky flies the boot? Let’s get started.
7 Best Fly Boots for Horses: Key Takeaway
- Best Overall Fly Boot – SHOOFLY in Horse Care Fly Boots
- Best Bang for the Buck – Fine Mesh Fly Boots Loose Fitting
- Best Fly Boots for Full Leg Coverage – SHOOFLY Horse Leggins
- Best Fly Boots for Daily Use – Gallopoff Fly Boots for Horses
- Best Fly Boots for UV protection – Cashel Crusader Leg Guard Fly Boots
- Best Fly Boots for Sensitive Skin – Harrison Howard Loose Fitting Fly Boots
- Most Comfortable Fly Boots – Professional’s Choice Deluxe Fly Boots
What Are Fly Boots?
Fly boots are like superheroes for horses. They protect your horse’s legs from annoying flies and bugs.
Made of mesh or similar material, they wrap around the horse’s legs. They keep flies away and help prevent injuries from all that stomping.
Plus, they can protect from the sun and debris. Easy to put on and take off, these boots are a must-have.
Your horse stays happy and comfortable. In short, fly boots are the best defense against pesky flies.
Importance of Fly Boots
Fly boots are essential for your horse’s comfort and health.
They protect against annoying flies and insects, which can cause stress and irritation. By reducing the need for constant stomping, fly boots help prevent hoof damage and leg fatigue.
They also offer protection from harmful UV rays and debris like burrs and foxtails. With the right fly boots, your horse stays calm, comfortable, and focused.
Investing in quality fly boots means fewer worries for you and a happier, healthier horse.
Key Features to Look For in Fly Boots
Choosing the right fly boots for your horse is essential for their comfort and protection. Here are the key features to consider:
1. Material. Select fly boots made from durable and breathable materials, such as mesh. These materials keep flies out while allowing for adequate airflow to keep your horse cool.
2. Fit. Ensuring a proper fit is crucial. Look for boots with adjustable straps that provide a snug yet comfortable fit without being too tight. This helps prevent slippage and irritation.
3. Durability. Check for reinforced stitching and high-quality construction. Durable fly boots will withstand the wear and tear of daily use, ensuring long-lasting protection.
4. Comfort. Comfort is paramount. Choose boots with padding and smooth edges to prevent rubbing and irritation. This ensures your horse remains comfortable even during extended wear.
5. Ease of use. Fly boots should be easy to put on and take off. Velcro closures or similar fastening systems make application and removal quick and hassle-free.
6. Coverage. Consider the level of coverage you need. Some fly boots offer full-leg protection, while others cover just the lower legs. Longer boots provide more extensive protection against flies and other pests.
Read also: Best Hoof Boots for Trail Riding.
Top Fly Boots for Horses: Product Reviews
Choosing the right fly boots for your horse can be a game-changer. With so many options on the market, you need to find the best fit for your horse’s needs.
In this section, we’ll review the top fly boots available. We’ll break down their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect pair to keep your horse protected and comfortable.
1. Best Overall Fly Boot – SHOOFLY in Horse Care Fly Boots
Looking for the best fly boots for your horse? SHOOFLY in Horse Care Fly Boots might just be the answer. Yes, they come at a high price, but they are worth every penny.
These boots are made from lightweight, breathable plastic mesh. This material allows vital air circulation around your horse’s legs and doesn’t restrict blood flow or movement.
The lower edge is finished in felt, which helps prevent wild oats, burrs, and foxtails from embedding in the boots.
One standout feature is the patented dual plastic sewn-in stays. They create stability and eliminate sagging.
Plus, the heavy-duty, easy-to-attach Velcro ensures durability and wearability. No more worrying about the boots falling off or wearing out quickly.
The chemical-free design of SHOOFLY Leggins also reduces stressful stomping. This helps prevent hoof damage and leg fatigue, keeping your horse comfortable and healthy.
Pros
- It is durable and long-lasting.
- It’s breathable and allows for air circulation, keeping your horse’s legs cool.
- Comfortable with felt edges and proper fit to prevent irritation and discomfort.
- Effective and reduces stomping, which helps prevent hoof damage and leg fatigue.
Cons
- More expensive than many other fly boots on the market.
- Only available in medium size, which may not fit all horses.
2. Best Bang for the Buck – Fine Mesh Fly Boots Loose Fitting
If you’re looking for value, the Fine Mesh Fly Boots Loose Fitting are the best bang for your buck. They’re affordable but still do their job well.
Made from long-lasting PVC fabric, these boots form a sturdy shield to keep flies away, reducing annoying stomping. The breathable mesh ensures comfort, and the four tight-gripping fixations keep them in place.
Nylon stays add support, preventing deformation. Plus, they come in bright colors to jazz up your horse’s look. Easy to wear and sold in a pack of four, these boots are a great deal.
Pros
- Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.
- Made from strong PVC fabric and supported by nylon stays.
- They are comfortable with a breathable mesh that keeps your horse cool.
- Tight-gripping fixations prevent the boots from falling off.
Cons
- May not fit all horses perfectly.
- Lacks some advanced features of higher-end boots.
3. Best Fly Boots for Full Leg Coverage – SHOOFLY Horse Leggins
Need full leg coverage for your horse? SHOOFLY Horse Leggins are your best bet. These durable, loose-fitting boots are made from lightweight, breathable plastic mesh.
The felt-finished lower edge keeps out wild oats, burrs, and foxtails. The mesh allows vital air circulation and doesn’t restrict blood flow or movement.
Patented dual plastic sewn-in stays create stability and eliminate sagging. Heavy-duty Velcro makes them easy to attach and ensures they stay put.
These chemical-free leggins reduce stressful stomping, helping prevent hoof damage and leg fatigue.
Pros
- Protects the entire leg from flies and debris.
- Allows air circulation, keeping legs cool.
- Stable and has a dual plastic that helps prevent sagging.
- Heavy-duty Velcro and high-quality materials.
Cons
- More expensive than other options.
- Might not fit all horses perfectly.
4. Best Fly Boots for Daily Use – Gallopoff Fly Boots for Horses
Gallopoff Fly Boots excel in daily use. It offers ultra-soft leg guards that reduce stressful stomping, preventing hoof damage and leg fatigue.
Their contoured shape, combined with fleece edges, ensures optimal comfort, preventing harsh rubbing and chafing. Wide, tight-gripping fasteners adapt to your horse’s leg shape, holding the boots firmly in place without discomfort.
These boots are easy to put on and take off and stay secure, even during long days in the pasture. The breathable mesh design promotes vital air circulation, keeping your horse’s legs cool.
Available in a convenient and affordable 4-pack, Gallopoff Fly Boots provide long-lasting protection and comfort.
Pros
- They are built to withstand everyday wear.
- They are comfortable
- Are quite breathable
Cons
- Lacks some advanced options of premium boots.
- May wear out faster with heavy use compared to high-end models.
5. Best Fly Boots for UV protection – Cashel Crusader Leg Guard Fly Boots
Cashel Crusader Leg Guard Fly Boots are the best choice for UV protection. These boots reduce stress and frustration caused by insects and burrs.
Made from soft yet durable material, they fit securely and comfortably on your horse’s legs. They come in a set of two, providing excellent value and quality.
Cashel has designed these boots to protect your horse not just from flies, but also from harmful UV rays. Your horse stays cool and comfortable, even in the sun.
Pros
- Shields the horse against harmful sun rays.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use.
- Comfortable and secure fit reduces stress from insects and burrs.
Cons
- Comes in a set of two only.
- Higher cost compared to some other brands.
6. Best Fly Boots for Sensitive Skin – Harrison Howard Loose Fitting Fly Boots
Harrison Howard Loose Fitting Fly Boots are the top choice for horses with sensitive skin. These boots are made from breathable and ventilated mesh, providing reliable protection from harsh UV rays.
The dense PVC fabric forms a sturdy shield against summer nuisances, reducing annoying stomping. Sewn-in nylon stays keep the boots upright, preventing sagging and deformation.
With four sturdy touch fasteners, these boots are easy to put on and take off. Available in nine colors and sold in packs of four, they also add a touch of style to your horse’s look.
Pros
- Breathable and provides UV protection.
- Sturdy and durable with sewn-in nylon stays.
- Easy to use with four touch fasteners.
Cons
- May not fit all horses perfectly.
7. Most Comfortable Fly Boots – Professional’s Choice Deluxe Fly Boots
The Professional’s Choice Deluxe Fly Boots are all about comfort. Made from breathable 1000 Denier mesh, they keep flies and botflies at bay, preventing bites and egg-laying.
Stays are sewn in to ensure these boots keep their shape and stay up. A soft neoprene bottom liner adds extra comfort and prevents rubbing.
Hook and loop closures make them easy to put on and take off. These boots reduce your horse’s need to stamp their feet to get rid of flies.
Sold in a pack of four, they offer both comfort and protection.
Pros
- Breathable mesh prevents fly bites and botflies.
- Soft neoprene liner prevents rubbing.
- Easy to use with hook and loop closures.
Cons
- Higher price compared to basic models.
- Might need adjusting to fit some horses perfectly.
Maintenance and Care Tips for Fly Boots
Keeping your horse’s fly boots in top shape is simple. Here’s how:
Regular cleaning: Wash the boots regularly. Use mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.
Check for damage: Inspect the boots often. Look for any rips or loose stitching. Fix small issues before they get worse.
Proper storage: Store the boots in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for long periods.
Adjust fit: Ensure the boots still fit well. Adjust straps as needed to keep them snug but comfortable.
Rotate use: If possible, have a second pair. Rotate them to give each set a break. This helps them last longer.
Avoid chemicals: Don’t use harsh chemicals or bleach. They can weaken the material and irritate your horse’s skin.
Interesting read: How to Get Rid of Horseflies.
FAQs
Can fly boots be worn all day?
Yes, fly boots can be worn all day. Just make sure they fit well and check them regularly for any signs of discomfort or wear.
Can fly boots cause any discomfort or health issues?
Fly boots are safe, but improper fit or worn-out boots can cause rubbing or irritation. Always ensure a proper fit and inspect them regularly to avoid issues.
How often should I replace my horse’s fly boots?
Replace fly boots when they show significant wear, and tears, or no longer fit properly. This might be once a season, but it varies based on use and quality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fly boots for your horse makes a big difference. They protect against flies, provide comfort, and can even guard against UV rays.
Whether you need the best overall, the most comfortable, or something for sensitive skin, there’s a perfect pair out there. Remember to check for fit, durability, and ease of use.
Keep them clean and well-maintained, and your horse will thank you. Your horse can enjoy a comfortable, fly-free summer with the right fly boots. Happy riding.