12 best fly boots for horses
Fly boots for horses are specialized equine accessories designed to protect horses' legs from flies, insects, and other pests. These boots are commonly used during warmer months or in regions where insects are prevalent. Fly boots serve multiple purposes, including preventing insect bites, reducing irritation, and protecting the horse's legs from potential infections. Here are some key points about fly boots for horses:
Design and Construction: Fly boots are typically made from lightweight, breathable materials such as mesh fabric. The mesh allows air circulation, keeping the horse's legs cool while providing a barrier against insects. They are designed to cover the horse's lower legs, including the fetlocks and pasterns.
Protection from Insects: Fly boots create a physical barrier that prevents flies, mosquitoes, gnats, and other insects from coming into direct contact with the horse's skin. By minimizing insect exposure, fly boots help in preventing insect-related skin irritations, bites, and allergic reactions.
Minimizing Stomping and Irritation: Horses often stomp their feet in an attempt to ward off flies and other flying insects. This stomping can lead to hoof and leg problems. Fly boots can help reduce the need for stomping, preventing potential injuries and irritation.
Types of Fly Boots: There are various types of fly boots available, including:
- Open Front Boots: These cover the front of the horse's legs and are open at the back, allowing for better movement.
- Full Coverage Boots: These cover the entire lower leg, providing complete protection from insects.
- Bell Boots with Extensions: Some fly boots are designed as bell boots with additional mesh extensions to protect the pasterns and lower fetlocks.
Fastening Mechanisms: Fly boots usually have secure fastening mechanisms, such as hook-and-loop closures or buckles, to keep the boots in place during various activities like grazing or walking.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of fly boots. Most fly boots can be easily cleaned by rinsing them with water and mild soap. It's important to let them dry thoroughly before reusing them.
When choosing fly boots for a horse, it's crucial to consider the fit, durability, and ease of cleaning.Ill-fitting boots or those made from low-quality materials may cause discomfort to the horse or wear out quickly, requiring frequent replacements. Properly fitted and well-maintained fly boots contribute to the overall well-being and comfort of the horse, especially during insect-heavy seasons.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best fly boots for horses on the market
Shoo Fly Leggins for Horses - Set of 4 Medium Blue
SHOOFLY LEGGINS
Product description
Made from flexible, plastic mesh to allow air circulation, Shoofly Leggins are easy to attach, comfortable to wear and will not sag due to their unique sewn-in plastic stays. And they're patented! Features: Chemical free. Will not sag. Easy-to-use Velcro fasteners. Prevents painful bites from flies and other biting insects. Reduces stress and stomping caused by fly bites. Prevents Botflies from laying eggs and causing botfly larvae infestation. Decreases healing time of abrasions and wounds by allowing air flow. Reduces joint irritation, hoof problems and muscle fatigue caused by continuous stomping. Does not restrict blood flow or range of motion. 100% Manufacturer's Guarantee. Sizes: Sizes: Mini, Length 6.25 in. Bottom Circumference 8.5 in. Top Circumference 10.0 in. Small, Length 13.5 in. Bottom Circumference 13.5 in. Top Circumference 17.5 in. Medium, Recommended for a 15 hand horse, average horse, quarter horse.Length 14.5 in. Bottom Circumference 14.5 in. Top Circumference 18.5 in. Large, Recommended for a 16 hand horse or draft size. Length 15 in. Bottom Circumference 15 in. Top Circumference 19.5 in.
- Design will allow for vital air circulation around the horse's legs while protecting from horse fly bites.
- Durable sewn in plastic staves ensure the shoofly leggins will not sag.
- Plastic mesh is lightweight.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are these flexible enough for my horse to lay down at night |
| Answer: | I'd try the small unless your donkey is more "regular" horse size. I use the medium on both my horses (quarter horse type build) who are each 15.2 hands. I love these fly boots. Easy to put on and off. They stay on and they work! |
| Question: | I have a little brown donkey that the flies love. What size for her? Thank you |
| Answer: | I bought smalls for my 15'3 QH; I fudge a little by attaching the velcro on the top and the bottom half way and they fit him well. |
| Question: | What size should I get for my 15’2 paint |
| Answer: | Don't get anything bigger than small. I got a medium for a horse that weighed 1150. |
| Question: | What size for 13.1 h pony |
| Answer: | It can be exchanged.... I went a size up to go from this winter to the next. The jackets are long for protection from the elements. |
Shoofly Horse Leggins; Prevent Paintful Fly Bites, Reduces Stress & Stomping, Chemical-Free Plastic Mesh Material (Medium/Orange)
Shoofly
Product description
Chemical freeWill not sagEasy-to-use fastenersPrevents painful bites from flies and other biting insectsReduces stress and stomping caused by fly bitesPrevents Botflies from laying eggs and causing botfly larvae infestationDecreases healing time of abrasions and wounds by allowing air flowReduces joint irritation, hoof problems and muscle fatigue caused by continuous stompingDoes not restrict blood flow or range of motionManufacturers warranty against defects in workmanshipOrange78130 Made from flexible, plastic mesh to allow air circulation, Shoofly Leggins are easy to attach, comfortable to wear and will not sag due to their unique sewn-in plastic stays.
- Chemical free
- Will not sag
- Easy to use fasteners
- Prevents painful bites from flies and other biting insects
- Reduces stress and stomping caused by fly bites
User questions & answers
| Question: | How do you put them on tight? Or just snug |
| Answer: | A set of four. |
| Question: | How many leggings come in a package |
| Answer: | I bought medium for my 15 & 16 hand walking horses, so probably you would want the large. I think I read somewhere that the difference was mostly how tall they were. That’s my best guess. |
| Question: | Anyone have insight on sizing for 17 hh horse? Medium or Large |
| Answer: | You bet. I’ve had them on both of my horses almost everyday for a couple months. Ones in the pasture, ones in her pen and both lay down like normal. No issues. |
Cashel Crusader Leg Guards
CASHEL COMPANY
Product description
New and improved design with more to choose from. Made of Soft, Vinyl Coated Polyester Mesh. Mesh and Nylon Trim will NOT collect burrs and stickers Top Inside Rim has Nylon Padding for Extra Comfort. Padded Fetlock Areas keep mesh from rubbing pasterns. Set of Two Leg guards
- Set of Two Leg Guards - Choose your size
- Durable mesh leg wraps
- Helps reduce annoying stomping
- The unique design inhibits sagging and shifting
- Hook-and-loop closures provide an adjustable fit, adapting to your horse’s conformation
User questions & answers
| Question: | What about for a standard donkey? Anyone use these on a standard and if so, what size did you buy |
| Answer: | Request a certain size if they offer |
| Question: | How do I order specific size |
| Answer: | i only have the pony size for a welsh (13.3h), they would not fit my bigger horse |
| Question: | Will horse size fit quarter horse |
| Answer: | I'm not sure of the sizing..check the measuring guide?I bought the leg guards for my quarter horse, they stayed up-right for about a week...Then the fabric ended up compacting. So they covered about 1/2 of the length as when new...Kept bugs off the covered area fine though.... |
| Question: | Is size "draft" the correct size for an Irish Cop |
| Answer: | Just snug - if you get to tight it could cause swelling in ankle. Love these!!! |
Shoofly Blue Leggins Large
Shoofly
Product description
Chemical freeWill not sagEasy-to-use Velcro fastenersPrevents painful bites from flies and other biting insectsReduces stress and stomping caused by fly bitesPrevents Botflies from laying eggs and causing botfly larvae infestationDecreases healing time of abrasions and wounds by allowing air flowReduces joint irritation, hoof problems and muscle fatigue caused by continuous stompingDoes not restrict blood flow or range of motionManufacturers warranty against defects in workmanshipSize: LargeBlue79240 Made from flexible, plastic mesh to allow air circulation, Shoofly Leggins? are easy to attach, comfortable to wear and will not sag due to their unique sewn-in plastic stays.
- Chemical free
- Will not sag
- Easy to use Velcro fasteners
- Prevents painful bites from flies and other biting insects
- Reduces stress and stomping caused by fly bites
User questions & answers
| Question: | Where do you measure your horse? Bottom - coronet band? Top - just below knee or mid knee |
| Answer: | One pair |
| Question: | Is this for one pair, or two |
| Answer: | Just for fronts |
| Question: | Is this for one pair, or two |
| Answer: | Dear Customer, this item is sold in packs of 4. Thank you. |
| Question: | How many for this price |
| Answer: | The ones that I purchased may be a little big for a donkey. |
Shoo Fly Leggins Fly Boots
ANIMAL HEALTH INTERNATIONAL
Product description
Shoofly Leggins Made from flexible, plastic mesh to allow air circulation, Shoofly Leggins are easy to attach, comfortable to wear, and will not sag due to their unique sewn-in plastic stays. And they're patented! Features: Chemical-free Will not sag Easy-to-use Velcro fasteners Prevents painful bites from flies and other biting insects Reduces stress and stomping caused by fly bites Prevents Botflies from laying eggs and causing botfly larvae infestation Decreases healing time of abrasions and wounds by allowing air flow Reduces joint irritation, hoof problems, and muscle fatigue caused by continuous stomping Does not restrict blood flow or range of motion Pack of 4 Item Specifications: Sizes: Mini: 6.25" length, 8.5" bottom circumference, 10.0" top circumference Small: 13.5" length, 13.5" bottom circumference, 17.5" top circumference Medium: Recommended for 15-hand horse, average horse, quarter horse; 14.5" length, 14.5" bottom circumference, 18.5" top circumference Large: Recommended for 16-hand horse or draft size: 15" length, 15" bottom circumference, 19.5" top circumference Due to a manfucturer's stcok change, this product no longer has a fleece backing, as in years past. The backing is now made of an organic material, which is a much better quality.
- Chemical-free
- Will not sag
- Easy-to-use Velcro fasteners
- Prevents painful bites from flies and other biting insects
- Reduces stress and stomping caused by fly bites
User questions & answers
| Question: | What would a fine boned standard donkey need? Yearling or mini |
| Answer: | I have a horse that is allergic to fly bites and one little scratch or cut he will get a summer sore. I've used 5-6 different style boots and these are probably one the longer-lasting. The only thing is, flies DO go down in IF there is a sore or something they want. |
| Question: | These fly boots look open at the top, what keeps the flies from moving down the leg into the boot |
| Answer: | The size measurements are in the product description of the item. My horses are 15 hands and 15.1. Medium works fine for mine. |
| Question: | How do i know what size to buy |
| Answer: | Yearling are pretty narrow, might be better |
| Question: | Will the mini size work for our foal |
| Answer: | I didn't measure my horse - we have average sized quarter horses (15.2) and order Medium and they fit just fine. They are adjustable at the bottom with the Velcro so I would think if you have average sized horse a M would be fine. |
Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Protection Leg Guards, Set of Four, Grey, Horse
Cashel
Product description
New and improved design. Made of Soft, Vinyl Coated Polyester Mesh. Mesh and Nylon Trim will NOT collect burrs and stickers Top Inside Rim has Nylon Padding for Extra Comfort. Padded Fetlock Areas keep mesh from rubbing pasterns.
- Set of Four Leg Guards
- Durable mesh leg wraps eliminate sun sensitivity and prevent flies from biting your horse's lower legs
- Helps reduce annoying stomping and insect-induced stress.
- The unique design inhibits sagging and shifting
- Hook-and-loop closures provide an adjustable fit, adapting to your horse's conformation.
User questions & answers
| Question: | what size would i need for a mini donkey |
| Answer: | They have a little bit of fleece at the bottom of the boot. They fit pretty snug so I don't think they are as cool as other brands that allow airflow through the boot. Also, the front and back boots are exactly the same. I returned mine and went with shoo fly boots instead |
| Question: | Are they fleece lined? Are they cool |
| Answer: | I really have no idea. But the material is mesh so I would thinks so. My guys doesn’t go out in the rain. I hoped I answered your question. |
| Question: | Are they waterproof |
| Answer: | We use these on our mini and they do the job. It would depend on cannon bone length. Mostly the flies bother the fetlock and lower leg so even if it doesn’t get all the way to the knee it should work |
Harrison Howard Fly Boots Voodoo Blue Full Size
Harrison Howard
- Touch closures
- Countoured fit
- Fleece edging
- Set of 4 (2 front, 2 hind)
Product features
GREAT FLY-PREVENTION
The material used is specially designed so that flies can not bug horses, which can effectively reduce stomping.
COMFORTABLE WEARING
Fleece edging keeps flies getting into the boots and ensures that no sores are made on horse legs.
ADJUSTABLE CLOSURE
3 touch-and-closures suitable for various sizes of horse legs, easily adjusted without causing over-tightening.
Shoofly Orange Leggins Large
Shoofly
Product description
Chemical freeWill not sagEasy-to-use Velcro fastenersPrevents painful bites from flies and other biting insectsReduces stress and stomping caused by fly bitesPrevents Botflies from laying eggs and causing botfly larvae infestationDecreases healing time of abrasions and wounds by allowing air flowReduces joint irritation, hoof problems and muscle fatigue caused by continuous stompingDoes not restrict blood flow or range of motionManufacturers warranty against defects in workmanshipSIze: LargeOrange79140 Made from flexible, plastic mesh to allow air circulation, Shoofly Leggins are easy to attach, comfortable to wear and will not sag due to their unique sewn-in plastic stays.
- Chemical free
- Will not sag
- Easy to use Velcro fasteners
- Prevents painful bites from flies and other biting insects
- Reduces stress and stomping caused by fly bites
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will these fit an 18.1 draft. Bought the cashel draft size and they wouldnt even reach to velcro on? Do thwy come in a taller size |
| Answer: | I believe they are sets of 4. They are GREAT!!! |
| Question: | Are the sold in sets of 4 or |
| Answer: | I’m not sure. We have a standard donkey at our barn so I’m not familiar with the little guys. Maybe the mini/foal? I have these and they have held up really well. My Arab is pretty tough on them! I also have used them to cover bandages on his lower leg and hoof line and they help keep them from folding up |
Harrison Howard Fly Boots Amethyst Full Size
Harrison Howard
- Touch closures
- Countoured fit
- Fleece edging
- Set of 4 (2 front, 2 hind)
User questions & answers
| Question: | What measurement size is this comparable to? Says Full sized but that is not what the measurements are shown in |
| Answer: | These boots seem to run a little on the tight side as far as rhe circumference goes. Length of boot is good. Fit s my mare very nicely but she s not a huge horse. Very nice quality boots! |
| Question: | Are these standard horse size |
| Answer: | I would try these in large. They are not so fitted as others. I use mediums on my 15.2 hand horses (quarter horse type builds). If one fits, they all will. |
Product features
GREAT FLY-PREVENTION
The material used is specially designed so that flies can not bug horses, which can effectively reduce stomping.
COMFORTABLE WEARING
Fleece edging keeps flies getting into the boots and ensures that no sores are made on horse legs.
ADJUSTABLE CLOSURE
3 touch-and-closures suitable for various sizes of horse legs, easily adjusted without causing over-tightening.
Shires Airflow Fly Boots (Pack of 4)
Shires
Product description
Specially designed from airflow fabrics to keep bothersome flies and biting insects off the legs. Lightweight fabrics, ergonomic shaping and fleece bound edges ensure superior comfort while the touch close straps keep them securely fastened. Set of 4.
- Lightweight: Made of airy mesh fabric to increase airflow. Great for protecting your horse from insect bites while ensuring optimal cooling and comfort. Ideal for hot summer days
- Ergonomic Shape: Designed to form to the horses' legs and stay up. Comes in mulitple sizes for various breeds
- Fleece Edge: Features fleece padding for optimal comfort. Great for preventing harsh rubbing and chaffing
- Tight Straps: Comes with 3 velcro straps to help them stay up throughout the day
- Set of 4: Comes in a pack of 4 boots. Great, durable fly boots at an amazing value
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will pony size fit a 14hh Arabian |
| Answer: | I got large for my appx. Probably the same for you . |
| Question: | What size for a lightish boned warmblood |
| Answer: | Just bought these three weeks ago... they went on easily and perfectly; looked like they were going to stay put. Sadly, a few hours later, they had slid down. I don’t think it’s a sizing issue; it’s just nearly impossible to find anything that will stay in place with a horses movement. |
| Question: | Do they stay put or turn around on the leg |
| Answer: | I have a 14.3 foundation quarter horse and she wears the cob well. |
| Question: | What size would i use on a standard Donkey |
| Answer: | They are 14” in height and 11” around (not including the Velcro straps. I use this size for my OTTB |
Kensington Protective Products Horse Fly Boots - Fleece Trimmed - Stay-Up Technology - Protection from Insect Bites and UV Rays - Sold in Pairs (2 Boots)
Kensington Protective Products
User questions & answers
| Question: | What size in medium |
| Answer: | The 'Horse' size - 15" high - is the Large |
| Question: | What size on the Kensington chart is the large |
| Answer: | They are lined around the top and down one side so that the fleece is what touches the horse's leg when putting them on. |
| Question: | Are these fleece lined |
| Answer: | No |
| Question: | Can you use these while riding |
| Answer: | Yes! My Arab is 14.2 and very fine boned, the pony size fits her perfectly. |
Product features
Serving the equine community since 1954
Kensington is a family-owned and operated business known for fashion-forward, high-quality equine products designed in the USA. We began in 1954 by introducing the first Canvas Turnout Blanket as well as the bareback pad to the equine industry.
Leading the equine industry
We’re more than another “pretty face”, in fact, innovations such as the patented Protective Sheet and the Bug Eye Mask have established Kensington as a leader in the equine apparel industry.
Made by equestrians for equestrians
Our team of like-minded individuals shares a strong passion for the equestrian lifestyle which reflects even in the smallest tasks we undertake. With such a tight-knit group of employees and a deep understanding of the industry, we’re able to offer all our customers products with unparalleled craftsmanship. As a nationally recognized brand in the equine industry, our eyes are now set on the global stage.
Quality American products
Our products are proudly designed in the USA. Our fabrics undergo a rigorous quality inspection here at our Southern California headquarters. From tear tests, to heat exposure; we examine all degrees of durability in order to ensure a quality product.
Helps Prevent Horse Injury
Protective horse boots that keep flies and other insects from biting the horse's legs and potential injury from stomping.
Provides Horse With Optimal Support and Comfort
Boot stays in-place with its innovative and comfortable design that fits any horse's leg perfectly. Even when your horse stomps, trots, gallops, or runs, these boots wonÕt slip or budge.
Durability and UV Ray Protection
Made with Textilene fabric that is specially formulated to withstand fading, fire, mildew, soiling, wear/tear and 73% of harmful UV rays, even in the most extreme weather conditions.
Tough-1 Miniature Fly Boots Black
Tough-1
Product description
Tough-1 Miniature Horse Fly Boots Designed to keep your horses lower legs protected from flies, biting insects, and UV rays. Features: Quick Grip Velcro Closures Set of 4 Item Specifications: Size: Mini Horse Material: Nylon Mesh
- Quick Grip Velcro Closures
- Set of 4
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will they fit standard donkey |
| Answer: | They fit a mini and should very well on standard donkey |
| Question: | Fit a donkey |
| Answer: | They measure 12 × 15 and the Velcro strap is 4 inches |
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