Essentials for Summer & Year-Round Horse Care
As the seasons shift and summer sets in, caring properly for your horse goes beyond tack and saddles — it means updating your kit with summer-ready essentials: fly mesh rugs, fly masks, sun-protection, cooling gels, rug washes, insect repellents, and more. Choosing the right gear not only keeps your horse comfortable, but also healthy, protected from pests and sun, and ready to perform — whether you’re hacking, schooling, or competing.
Here’s a guide to the key items worth having, and how to use them.
Fly Mesh Rugs & Fly Masks
One of the most effective ways to safeguard your horse from flies, UV rays, and skin irritation is with a well-fitted fly mesh rug or fly mask.
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Lightweight mesh rugs — for example, a basic mesh rug such as Dakota Fly Mesh Combo — allow air to flow freely while offering a barrier against biting insects and sun exposure. These are ideal for horses turned out in paddocks during summer, or during warm weather turnout.
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Paired with a fly mask like Kool Master PVC Shade Mesh Fly Mask give your horse extra protection to sensitive areas like the eyes, forehead and poll — helping reduce irritation from biting insects and risk of sunburn.
Fly rugs and masks act similarly to sunscreen — they help reduce UV exposure and protect the coat and skin.
When using mesh rugs or masks, always ensure good airflow and check your horse regularly — especially in warm or humid weather — to avoid overheating. If the horse seems sweaty or uncomfortable, it’s better to remove the rug temporarily than risk overheating or skin problems.
Sun Protection
For horses with light skin or pink areas (such as around the muzzle or face), sun protection is as important as it is for us. While fly rugs and masks provide a good first layer of defense, sometimes you’ll need additional protection — especially on sunny turnout days or while grooming for shows.
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Cream sunscreens like Vetmax Sunblock Cream tend to offer thicker coverage and adhere well, which can be helpful for sensitive areas.
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Sunblock powders/spreads like VetPro Horse Sunblock Powder may be easier to apply over larger areas or over rugs and rugs’ edges, and can be less messy for quick touch-ups. It also doesn’t slip or get licked off areas like noses.
Choosing the right type depends on your horse’s skin sensitivity, how long they’ll be in the sun, and whether you need easy re-application (like during show prep).
Cooling Gels, Rug Washes & Grooming
Summer brings sweat, dust, and more time outside — which means grooming and care become even more important. A good grooming routine helps prevent skin irritation, keeps the coat healthy, and ensures tack sits properly on clean, comfortable skin.
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For basic cleaning and regular grooming, a trusted shampoo like Deep Cleaning Concentrate Shampoo — or similar from Miequi or other brands stocked at The Saddlery Store — helps remove sweat, dust, and grime after a ride or turnout.
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For tack and rug cleaning rug washes like Super Rug Wash and detergents ensure rugs and mesh fly sheets remain clean, breathable, and long-lasting. Dirty rugs are not only less comfortable — they can rub, cause irritation, or harbor pests.
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Cooling gels and topical care (for legs or muscles after work or travel) like Green Ice Gel can help reduce heat and support recovery when horses are working hard or spending time in the sun.
Insect Repellent
No summer is complete without battling flies, mosquitoes, and other biting insects. Even with rugs and masks, it’s often wise to use an insect repellent — especially on legs, belly, or sensitive skin areas that rugs don't cover.
A classic choice is VetNaturals Fly Repellent — a well-known brand that offers sprays to deter flies and insects without harming your horse’s skin or coat. Consistent use when flies are heavy can make turnout or travel much more comfortable for your horse.
For horses who hate the spray bottle, try a cream or powder version like VetNaturals Natural Fly Repellent Cream or Vetmax Fly Gel with DEET.
Performance & Protection
Throughout spring and summer, many riders continue schooling, jumping, hacking — or even competing. That makes protective gear that also works in heat essential.
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For horse legs, boots that offer protection and airflow make a big difference. For instance, the Veredus Carbon Gel Vento Boots are a top-tier option: they combine Veredus’s renowned protection with ventilation, keeping legs cooler while still offering support and shielding from knocks and strikes.
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For riders, head protection shouldn’t be compromised just because it’s hot. Helmets like KEP Italia Endurance Helmet offer safety without sacrificing comfort or ventilation, even during summer training or riding.
Ventilated gear makes a big difference during hot weather — it reduces overheating, helps maintain focus, and encourages regular use rather than riders skipping protection because it’s “too hot.”
Fun Summer Extras
Summer isn’t just about turnout and grooming — it’s also the time for shows, competitions, and casual fun. For those events, finishing touches can add flair and make your horse stand out.
Have some fun in the sun with your horse by giving them a makeover after a groom with things like shimmer sprays, glitter stencils, coat shine solutions. Stencils like Armor Equestrian’s are bright, glittery and will dazzle in the summer sun.
Adding a shimmer spray or lux sheen spray after a bath or before a summer show will help your horse stand out for those summer action shots.
Why Choosing the Right Gear Matters
Putting together a summer-ready tackbox isn’t just about chasing cool “gadgets.” Each piece plays a role in:
- Protection — from sun, insects, heat, and injuries
- Health — maintaining skin, coat, and muscle care during changing weather
- Comfort — for both horse and rider — which improves performance and willingness
- Durability — quality mesh rugs, ventilated boots and helmets last longer and stand up better to sweat, dust, and frequent use
Using premium products from trusted brands — such as Miequi, Vetpro, Equine America, Veredus, KEP Italia, Armor Equestrian, Premier Equine — ensures you’re not compromising safety or comfort for convenience.
Summer Checklist
Final Thoughts
Summer riding and turnout can be a joy — longer daylight hours for spending time with your horse.Investing in high-quality fly mesh rugs, breathable boots, protective helmets, grooming and insect-repellent products — as well as a few finishing touches for fun — makes all the difference to your horse’s happiness, comfort and health in the summer months.