Fly veils are essential for protecting horses from insects, noise, and discomfort. They come in various types, such as basic, ear bonnet, and competition fly veils, offering insect protection and enhancing focus during rides. Brands like LeMieux, ANKY, and Woof Wear provide high-quality, stylish options that ensure comfort and functionality, making them popular choices for both everyday use and competitions.
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As horse owners and riders, we constantly seek ways to improve our horses' comfort and performance. One often overlooked yet essential accessory that plays a vital role in enhancing a horse’s well-being is the fly veil. While fly veils may seem like a simple piece of equipment, they offer a variety of benefits—ranging from protecting a horse from pesky insects to providing added style in the show ring.
In this article, we'll explore when and why you should use a fly veil on your horse, the different types available, and take a look at some of the best brands, including LeMieux, ANKY, and Woof Wear.
A fly veil is a piece of equipment designed to protect a horse's ears and head from flies, insects, and other irritants. Typically made from soft, breathable fabric, fly veils cover the horse’s ears and forehead and sometimes extend down the neck. Some veils also feature a noseband or additional pieces that cover other areas for complete protection. Fly veils come in different materials and designs to cater to various needs, from protecting against bugs to offering a fashionable look in competition.
Fly veils are incredibly beneficial for both the comfort and health of your horse. Here are the primary reasons you might choose to put one on your horse:
The most common reason for using a fly veil is to protect your horse from insects. Flies, gnats, and mosquitoes can be a constant nuisance to horses, especially during warmer months. These pests can cause irritation and distract your horse, making it difficult for them to focus during rides, competitions, or even when just standing in the field.
When horses are bothered by flies buzzing around their ears, eyes, or muzzle, it can cause them to become agitated or distracted. Fly veils help reduce this discomfort by shielding sensitive areas, such as the ears and face, from constant buzzing. This leads to a more relaxed and focused horse, particularly during training sessions or competitions where concentration is key.
Aside from the obvious insect protection, fly veils can also serve as noise dampeners for horses. Some horses are sensitive to loud or sudden sounds, and a fly veil can help soften ambient noise, helping the horse remain calm in hectic environments like competition arenas or busy stables.
Fly veils can also be worn during shows and competitions, where they not only offer functional protection but also add an elegant, polished look. Some designs are made to be sleek and stylish, with certain brands offering veils that match saddle pads and other tack for a coordinated appearance.
Some fly veils also provide sun protection, especially those made of lightweight, UV-resistant materials. Horses with light-colored coats or sensitive skin can benefit from these added sun shields, particularly in the summer months when UV rays are strong.
Fly veils come in a variety of styles and materials to meet specific needs. Here are some of the most common types of fly veils:
These are the most simple and cost-effective designs, usually consisting of a mesh or cotton material that covers just the horse’s ears and forehead. They provide effective protection from flying insects without being too bulky. This style is perfect for everyday use.
This type of veil has a more comprehensive design, extending over the ears and often including a chin strap or neck piece. Ear bonnets are highly effective in preventing flies from buzzing in sensitive areas like the ears and the eyes. They can be particularly useful for horses that are more prone to insect irritation.
Some fly veils extend beyond the head and ears to include a noseband or neck piece that offers additional coverage. These are useful in areas with high insect populations or for horses that need more extensive protection.
These veils are specifically designed for use in competition and are often made with sleek materials and aesthetically pleasing designs. They may feature additional decorative elements such as piping, lace, or logo detailing, and are designed to match other show gear, such as saddle pads, wraps, and boots.
LeMieux is renowned for offering high-quality, functional, and stylish fly veils. The brand is known for its attention to detail, craftsmanship, and its use of premium fabrics. LeMieux fly veils are often made from soft, breathable materials such as cotton or mesh to ensure comfort during long rides. Their designs are available in a wide variety of colors to match different saddle pads and equipment, making them a popular choice among competitive riders who want their horse to look as good as it feels.
LeMieux’s ProForm Fly Hood is one of their standout products. It’s designed with a sleek and minimalistic look while offering excellent insect protection. The carefully crafted ear design ensures that flies don’t distract the horse, while the soft materials provide comfort and breathability.
ANKY is another leading brand in the equestrian world, known for combining style with functionality. Their fly veils are typically designed with the show ring in mind, offering a refined and fashionable look. ANKY fly veils are made using high-quality, durable fabrics that combine to offer maximum protection and comfort. They often feature detailed stitching and stylish accents, making them a popular choice for riders who want both performance and elegance.
ANKY’s Classic Fly Veil is a popular choice, made from breathable mesh material to ensure comfort even during the hottest days. The elegant design is available in a range of classic and contemporary colors, so riders can easily coordinate with their show outfit.
Woof Wear is well-known for producing reliable, high-performance equestrian products, and their fly veils are no exception. Designed with functionality in mind, Woof Wear fly veils offer excellent insect protection while ensuring a comfortable fit. Woof Wear’s focus on durable and high-quality materials makes their fly veils ideal for both competition and everyday use.
Their Woof Wear Fly Veil features a soft, breathable design that is comfortable for the horse to wear during long rides. The flexible ear material ensures that the veil stays in place, providing consistent protection from flies, while the sturdy construction ensures that it will last for many seasons.
