Here, we look at 3 top waterproof fly rugs and leave a review for the one we trialled on our horse this summer to help you choose your horse’s new rug.
A waterproof fly rug is an indispensable addition to a horse’s wardrobe for long summer days in the field. With this versatile hybrid type of rug, owners can have peace of mind, knowing their horses are well-protected from flies and pests regardless of the weather conditions.
Yes, it is ok to keep a waterproof fly rug on in the rain as continual exposure to wet conditions can lead to rain scald, a common issue observed in horses at any time of year. The waterproof layer protects the top of the kneck and back, leaving the sides with a fine mesh to help keep the horse cool, and protected from flies and other pesks.
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TRIED & TESTED, Summer 2024
WeatherBeeta ComFiTec 600D/Mesh II Combo
Available: 4ft – 7ft3
Colour: Silver with blue binding
RRP: £99
Where to buy: WeatherBeeta online
The WeatherBeeta ComFiTec 600D/Mesh II Combo is a versatile Waterproof Fly Rug for horses and ponies, making it an excellent choice for owners in the United Kingdom. Why? The top layer of the rug is made of a 600 Denier Ripstop waterproof, breathable and lightweight fabric, helping keep the horse dry without overheating and protected from pests.
The main features of this rug include:
- 600 denier waterproof ripstop top panel
- Fine mesh to the sides to help protect from flies and other pests
- Padding on either side of the withers to help remove pressure and prevent rubbing.
- Two quick-clip adjustable front closures.
- An integrated neck with Velcro fastenings.
- Shoulder gussets to allow for movement in each gate.
- A long wrap-around tail flap.
- Removable elasticated leg straps.
Everything Horse’s Review
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“We are currently using the WeatherBeeta ComFiTec 600D/Mesh II Combo on our horse Havana, a 15.1/2hh Warmblood x Thoroughbred 9-year-old mare who is narrow with a long shoulder. Over the past few weeks, the rug has proved invaluable, where it rains one minute, then the sun the next. It’s refreshing not to worry in the morning about whether it rained overnight when she’s got it on – without having to rush down to take it off so she doesn’t overheat through the day.”
“One of our favourite features on this rug is the wither protection pads, which sit perfectly on either side of Havana’s wither to raise the rug and remove pressure over the area, helping prevent rubbing.”
“We asked for a 6’3, and the rug has come up a little long; however, this offers more protection around the tail and hind legs where Havana is prone to scaring from fly bites.”
“I probably wouldn’t opt for a waterproof fly rug in general when the temperature is too hot; however, it’s an excellent choice in interchangeable weather conditions, which happens a lot here in the UK!”
“So far, the rug has been a valuable part of Havana’s summer wardrobe, which has replaced the need for a lightweight turnout this summer. Through the sun and rain, she has remained dry, cool, and fly bite-free. I absolutely recommend this rug.”
Two other rugs you may like
Shires Highlander Plus Waterproof Combo Neck Fly Rug
Available: 5ft – 7ft
Colour: Blue
RRP: £105
Where to buy: GS Equestrian
The Highlander Plus Waterproof Combo Neck Fly Rug offers many features, including a robust belly bar for enhanced coverage. Its outer 600 denier construction, enhanced by ShireTex’s advanced fabric technology, increases the rug’s durability, protecting against potential rips and tears. The rug’s upper portion ensures waterproofing and breathability for the horse’s comfort.
Noteworthy features include:
- Shoulder gussets allowing for greater movement.
- A large tail flap for comprehensive coverage.
- An integrated neck fastened by Velcro for a secure fit.
- up to 90% UV protection
Additionally, the rug provides up to 90% UV protection, shielding your horse from harmful sun rays.
LeMieux Arika Shower-Tek Fly Rug
Available: 5ft6 – 7ft
Colour: Navy or Gray
RRP: £99
Where to buy: LeMieux Online
The LeMieux Arika Shower-Tek Fly Rug offers the horse protection from the elements, whether it be sun, rain, or flies. Sun bleaching is a common problem for horses during long, bright days, and with up to 85% UV protection, this rug offers complete protection.
It’s lightweight, breathable, and innovative, with its design-registered 45° angled T-bar front closure that distributes pressure to prevent rubbing on the point of the horse’s shoulder and across the chest.
The LeMieux Arika Shower-Tek Fly Rug has a detachable and lightweight neck for added versatility. This feature, combined with the contoured waterproof mane panel, offers optional extra protection, making it suitable for various weather conditions.
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.