Fly Rugs & Sheets
A fly rug is a lightweight mesh rug that keeps flies, midges and the sun off your horse through summer. The main types are standard fly rugs, combo fly rugs (with a built-in neck cover), full-coverage sweet-itch rugs (extra belly and neck protection for sensitive horses), and lighter fly sheets for travel or the stable. Just Horse Riders stocks them for ponies and horses from brands including Gallop, Rhinegold, Shires, WeatherBeeta and John Whitaker, from around £24.
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Fly-season advice from the Just Horse Riders team — last reviewed June 2026.
Which type of fly rug?
| Type | Best for |
|---|---|
| Standard fly rug | Everyday fly and sun protection over the body |
| Combo fly rug | Fuller cover — body plus a built-in neck |
| Full-coverage / sweet-itch | Horses prone to sweet itch — belly, neck and often a hood |
| Fly sheet | Lighter cover for travel, the stable or warm days |
| Ride-on fly rug | Keeping flies off while you hack or school |
How do I size a fly rug?
Fly rugs use the same UK sizing as turnout rugs — measure from the centre of the chest to the point of the buttock and match to the nearest size in feet and inches (for example 6 foot 0). If your horse is between sizes, size up so the rug is not tight across the shoulders.
Do fly rugs help with sweet itch?
Yes — a close-weave fly rug works as a physical barrier against the midges that trigger sweet itch. For affected horses, choose a full-coverage sweet-itch rug with belly and neck protection. It helps manage the problem rather than curing it, so pair it with a midge repellent.
The best fly rugs
- Best all-round combo: Gallop Fly Mesh Combo Rug (from £25.01) — great-value body and neck cover.
- Best full-coverage: Rhinegold Africa Combo Mesh Fly Rug (from £36.57).
- Best fly sheet: Gallop Summer Sheet (from £24.13).
- Handy extra: Shires ARMA Fly Turnout Socks (from £23.40) — protect the legs too.
Frequently asked questions
What does a fly rug do?
A fly rug is a breathable mesh rug that keeps flies, midges and UV off your horse in summer, reducing stamping, rubbing and irritation. Many also help horses prone to sweet itch by acting as a physical barrier.
What size fly rug does my horse need?
Measure from the centre of the chest to the point of the buttock and match to the nearest size in feet and inches. If your horse is between sizes, size up so it sits comfortably over the shoulders.
Can my horse wear a fly rug all day?
Yes — fly rugs are designed for daytime turnout in warm weather and are light and breathable. Check daily for rubs and remove the rug if it gets soaked through.
Do fly rugs help with sweet itch?
A close-weave fly rug acts as a physical barrier against the midges that trigger sweet itch. For affected horses choose a full-coverage sweet-itch rug with belly and neck cover, alongside a midge repellent.
Not sure on type or size? Tap the WhatsApp button at the bottom of the screen and one of the team will help.