The best ride-on fly rugs are just what you need if your horse is prone to sweet itch or particularly sensitive to flies. You might already using the best fly sprays, but a ride-on fly rug could be what helps you and your horse really enjoy hacking again if it’s currently being ruined by irritating flies?
These ride-on fly rugs have been specifically designed to be used while riding – the offer protection but keep your horse cool, comfortable and free to move at the same time. For maximum defence, we recommend teaming it with one of the best fly fringes or best fly masks.
Best ride-on fly rugs
Bucas Buzz-Off Riding Fly Sheet
Colours: Navy/silver or zebra
Sizes: S–XL (5ft6in – 6ft9in)
RRP: £85 (navy/silver), £96 (zebra)
Reasons to buy
- Two part rug with detachable neck
- Cutaway section by riders legs
- Heat reflective material to prevent your horse getting hot
Reasons to avoid
- Higher price point, but technical fabrics are worth it
This lightweight mesh, two-part riding rug has a detachable neck piece. The hood protects the neck, chest and shoulders, and features an elastic brow-band to help keep the rug in position up the neck. It attaches with touch-tape to the body at the withers and in front of the saddle.
The body part covers the back, sides and tail. There is a cut away section for the saddle and a touch-tape fastening at the wither for easy removal.
Gallop Mesh Hi Viz Ride On Detachable Neck Fly Rug
Colours: Yellow
Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft
RRP: £44.99
Reasons to buy
- Detachable neck
- Shoulder pleat for freedom of movement
- Hi-vis and reflective taping great if you ride on the roads
Reasons to avoid
- Velcro straps are not as wide as others
This hi-vis rug is made of a lightweight breathable mesh to offer fly protection during summer hacks, but doubles up as a winter exercise sheet with reflective taping for darker rides. It has a cut-away saddle area, nylon-lined chest and neck cover, elasticated detachable leg straps and large tail flap.
HKM Exercise Detachable Neck Fly Rug
Colours: Navy, red or aqua
Sizes: 4ft3in – 7ft3in
RRP: £37
Reasons to buy
- Wide size range
- Detachable neck
Reasons to avoid
- Does not offer as much coverage as others
Available in a wide range of sizes, this ride-on fly rug has a detachable and Velcro-adjustable neck cover that also has a Velcro bridle attachment to prevent slipping. It has a cut-away saddle area and tail guard for added protection.
Horseware Amigo Flyrider
Colours: Yellow, chalk/navy
Sizes: S–XL (5ft6in – 7ft3in)
RRP: £89.95
Reasons to buy
- Easy to use Velcro closures
- Detachable neck
- Provides UV protection
Reasons to avoid
- No sizes for smaller ponies
This hi-vis fly rug is contoured to fit around your saddle without interfering with your leg aid positioning. It covers your horse from top to tail in a UV protective breathable fabric, with easy-to-use Velcro closures for a secure fit. It has a detachable hood with an integrated loop that attaches to the bridle. The rug also features a generous tail flap as well as reflective safety strips and trim throughout.
Busse Fringe Exercise Combo Ride-On Fly Rug
Colours: Navy, grey, teal
Sizes: 5ft3in – 7ft3in
RRP: £57
Reasons to buy
- Tassels around the bottom for an extra level of protection
- Cut out space for saddle
Reasons to avoid
- More Velcro fastenings than others
This wrap-around ride-on fly rug is trimmed with a long fringe to add an extra level of insect defence. The neck is not detachable, but has Velcro closures and can be rolled back and fastened if not needed. It also has Velcro loops for attaching to the bridle.
The rug has a cut-out for the saddle and is cutaway at the sides to allow for clear leg aids. It fastens at the chest with lightweight plastic snap buckles.
Gee Tac Riding Fly Rug
Colours: Blue
Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in
RRP: £29.99
Reasons to buy
- Can also be used as a fly rug
- Cut out design for rider’s legs
- Extra coverage with belly panel
Reasons to avoid
- Fixed neck design
This ride-on rug can also be used as a normal field fly rug. It connects straight to the top of the bridle to keep the neck high, while the belly panel helps to keep the rug stable. It has a deep design, elasticated straps and a cotton-lined neck.
Cashel Crusader Quiet Ride Bug Armour
Colours: Black
Sizes: One size (15.2–16.2hh)
RRP: £70
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight material
- Attached to the bridle and saddle for a secure fit
Reasons to avoid
- Limited to one size
This ride-on rug is made from a lightweight, soft mesh material to provide a cool, comfortable shield from flying insects. It attaches to the bridle and saddle for full coverage without affecting the horse or rider’s movements. Two-piece set.
How to choose the best ride on fly rug
The best ride-on fly rugs will offer your horse additional protection, without getting in his way or making him hot. Riding is hard work as it is and the warmer weather doesn’t help matters.
As with the best fly rugs, there are a few different designs when it comes to ride-on fly rugs – some have detachable necks, while others have some level of belly protection. It’s important to weigh up what’s most important to you when it comes to protecting your horse from flies. Some are hi-vis, too, which makes them great for hacking in.
You might also like:
Fly fringes: cheap, simple and effective
8 rugs to help protect horses who are prone to sweet itch
11 waterproof fly rugs – perfect for summer showers and sunshine
12 fly rugs to suit every shape, need and budget
Fly masks to protect your horse
Had enough of annoying flies? We’ve tested some fly sprays to find which really work
Fly protection on a budget: 6 fly rugs under £50
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