Your horse is stomping and irritated, which has brought you in search of the best fly boots for horses. Fly protection for horses legs.
Good call that your horse will thank you for.
I’ve been in the same position and wanted to share my top horse fly boots picks with you.
Let’s find the perfect pair of equine fly boots for your horse!
This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.
Fly Boots for Horses Top Picks at a Glance
- Shoofly Loose Fitting Fly Boots (WINNER)
- Kensington Fly Boots with Fleece Trim - UV Protection
- Shires Airflow Fly Boots - Good Value
- Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Leg Guard- Contour Shape
- Tough 1 Zebra Mesh Fly Boots - Budget Friendly
Don't have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
6 Best Horse Fly Boots Reviews
After using different brands of horse fly boots and seeing how much happier they make my horses, I decided to put together a guide of my favorites.
Protection against flies is an important part of horse management. Some horses need more protection than others, like one of mine that has sensitive skin and gets hives from their bites.
Part of this protection is a good set of fly boots. Let’s dive in and find a pair that your horse will love.
#1 Shoofly Loose Fitting Fly Boots (WINNER)
Flies are a nightmare for horse owners and horses! They bit, irritate, and spread parasites and diseases.
With the warm weather comes flies. Small ones like midges, regular barn flies, and the extra horrible horse fly.
While it is impossible to completely get rid of flies, there are a few things we can do to help keep our horses comfortable, like using fly boots.
I really like these Shoofly boots because they have supports sewn in to prevent them from flopping down. This means they provide maximum lower leg cover. Some people refer to these particular boots as horse leggins.
They also have a trim on the bottom that helps prevent debris such as grass, leaves, and burrs from getting stuck on the boots.
Plus, they come in some fun colors! Who doesn’t love a splash of bright color in the summer?
Let’s take a closure look at the features of these leggings for horses.
Features & Attributes
- Breathable plastic mesh
- Plastic stays
- Two velcro hook and loop closures
- Comes in 3 colors - orange, pink, and blue
Measurements
- Comes in mini, pony, small, medium, and large sizes
Benefits Shoofly Loose Fitting Fly Boots
- Breathable
- Bottom trim prevents debris from getting stuck
- Sewn-in stays prevent sagging
- Strong velcro
- Protect horses from insect bites
Drawbacks Shoofly Loose Fitting Fly Boots
- Some horses got rubs
- Some users don’t find them durable enough
- No draft sizes
How it Compares to Others
These boots are a bit more expensive than other options, but the sewn-in support makes them a good option.
Expert Tips
Besides irritating your horse, flies also lay bot eggs on them. It is best to remove the eggs. This video will show you how.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmPAKGUJniI
What Other Horse Parents Say
Several horse parents have said these boots do a great job of keeping flies off their horse’s legs. They are seeing fewer bits and find the boots hold up well.
Take a look at this equestrian’s review of Shoofly Leggins.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6UNYYdu7mU
CHECK: How to Deal With Horse Flies
#2 Kensington Fly Boots with Fleece Trim - UV Protection
I’m a big fan of Kensington products, and they make some great fly protection gear, including fly sheets, fly masks, and of course, fly boots. These are super cute boots made with plaid pattern fabric.
They have fleece trim which will help prevent them from rubbing, making them good for horses with sensitive legs.
Features & Attributes
- 3 velcro fastening straps
- Textilene fabric
- Plaid pattern
- Comes in 8 colors - mint, purple, tan, blue, turquoise, and black
- Fleece trim
Measurements
- Sizes from small to extra large horse and extra large draft horse
Benefits Kensington Fly Boots with Fleece Trim
- UV protection
- Fleece trim prevents rubs
- Durable fabric
- Stay-Up Technology
Drawbacks Kensington Fly Boots with Fleece Trim
- Only come in pairs
- Expensive
- Some users find the slide down
How it Compares to Others
These boots are made with really durable fabric and they have fleece trim, which some of the others don’t have. However, you only get two for the price, which makes them more expensive.
Expert Tips
In this video, Kensington shows you how to correctly fit fly boots.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7L7Wyewb-QU
What Other Horse Parents Say
Users are saying since trying these boots their horses have not had any summer sores! Others have commented that they’ve seen a big reduction in constant stomping.
Check out this equestrians review.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KzwA9r2riY
READ MORE: Best Horse Boots for Jumping
#3 Shires Airflow Fly Boots - Good Value
You might recognize the brand Shires as they make lots of great horse gear. These are their fly boots, and they are pretty good value.
For the price, you get a set of 4 boots that have sturdy velcro straps and fleece trim.
Features & Attributes
- Airy mesh fabric
- Come with white, black, or white trims
- Come in grey or white mesh fabric
- Padded fleece edge
Measurements
- Come in pony, cob, and horse sizes
Benefits Shires Airflow Fly Boots
- Ergonomic shape
- Fleece edge reduces rubbing
- Wide straps keep them in place
- Good value for money
Drawbacks Shires Airflow Fly Boots
- Some users find the slip
- Not the most durable
How it Compares to Others
While some find these boots aren’t the most durable, they are one of the best options for value for money. They also have nice, soft, padded trim.
Expert Tips
Check out this vet’s tips on how to control flies.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_SRm42Xjjk
What Other Horse Parents Say
Horse parents find these boots a good length and like that they are lightweight than some of the others that their horse can’t tolerate.
#4 Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Leg Guard- Contour Shape
I really like how these boots are designed. They are shaped to fit the leg and give the fetlock extra room.
Features & Attributes
- 3 wide velcro straps
- Contoured shape
- Soft vinyl mesh
Measurements
- 7 sizes - mini, pony, Arabian, large pony, horse, warmblood, and draft
Benefits Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Leg Guard
- Reduce sun sensitivity
- Contour fit
- Great color choice
Drawbacks Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Leg Guard
- No fleece trim
- Some find the durability poor
How it Compares to Others
What I like about these boots is that they have a contour fit. This makes them less floppy than some of the other options.
Expert Tips
In addition to fly protection such as boots, sheets, and masks, it is a good idea to use fly repellent. Learn more about using fly sprays in this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRhafK3k1KU
What Other Horse Parents Say
This equestrian loves these boots; find out why in her review.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98tqKJnur7o
#5 Tough 1 Zebra Mesh Fly Boots - Budget Friendly
Tough 1 makes some great products. These boots look pretty cool with their zebra print, but the print also serves a purpose.
Studies found that the black and white stripes of a zebra confuse flies, so they don’t land on or bite them. So while you think your horse might look a bit funny in these boots, they do a good job of keeping flies away.
Features & Attributes
- Zebra print mesh
- Come in a set of 4
- 4 Velcro closures
Measurements
- One size
Benefits Tough 1 Zebra Mesh Fly Boots
- Great at deterring flies
- Budget-friendly price
- Prevent painful bites
- Breathable fabric
Drawbacks Tough 1 Zebra Mesh Fly Boots
- Loose fitting
- Too big for some horses
- Lack adjustability
How it Compares to Others
These boots stand out from other options for their zebra print and good price.
Expert Tips
If you have fly boots that slip down too much, I’ve seen some equestrians put bell boots with fleece lining on. This seems to help them stay up.
What Other Horse Parents Say
Users are pretty happy with these boots, but some wish they were more durable.
#6 Fly Free Boots for Horses - Best Loose Fit
If you like Shoofly boots, you will like these. They are quite similar. The boots have a loose fit but have vertical stays that are sewn into the mesh to help keep them up.
They come in five colors, white, blue, orange, red, and black.
Features & Attributes
- Vertical stays
- Bell boot style closure on bottom
- Adjustable bottom closure
Measurements
- One size
Benefits Fly Free Boots for Horses
- Made in the USA
- Loose fit, which some horses will prefer
- Stay up supports
Drawbacks Fly Free Boots for Horses
- Only one size
- Some users find them too big
How it Compares to Others
Some horses might like the loose fit of these boots and find them less restrictive than some of the other options.
Expert Tips
Horses tend not to like fly spray. I suspect it is the smell because, at least with my horses, other sprays are not a problem. Check out this video to learn how to get your horse used to fly spray.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5-ynyXjGh4
What Other Horse Parents Say
‘Best boots ever’, ‘resilient,’ and ‘tough’ are just a few of the things that equestrians have to say about these fly boots.
Do Fly Boots Work For Horses?
Yes, fly boots work for horses. Some equestrians have even called them a ‘game changer.’ They prevent flies from biting your horse's legs, avoiding summer sores and itchy marks.
The boots also prevent your horse from constantly stomping with annoyance from the flies. This is kinder on their joints and tendons. It also helps avoid your horse chipping or cracking its hooves.
Fly boots are often not considered when horse owners are looking for fly protection. I’ve made that mistake myself. However, they are actually really great, even if your horse looks a bit funny.
Ranvet says, “Many species of flies and biting insects take advantage of equine legs, causing anxiety and distress. The result is often pacing and stomping, which can lead to hoof cracks, loose shoes, tendon issues and joint problems, or for some horse’s results may even include allergic reactions.”
READ MORE: BEST Horse Boots for Trail Riding
What is The Benefit of Using Fly Boots For Horses Legs
There are several benefits of using fly boots for horses' legs. The boots are breathable, so the legs get plenty of airflow and won’t overheat in the summer.
They prevent flies and other irritating insects from landing on and biting a horse’s legs. Bites can cause allergic reactions, sores, and make your horse very uncomfortable.
The boots will prevent this from happening, which I think is terrific. If you’ve ever seen how worked up and upset a horse can get from the flies, you will understand why it is worth using fly protection.
Flies will also cause to stomp their legs to try and get rid of them. This isn’t good for the horse physically and mentally. Using fly boots will stop your horse from doing this.
In addition to boots, you might want also to check out the best fly sheets for horses.
Why Use Fly Boots for Horses?
The main purpose of using fly boots is to keep your horse happy, and who doesn’t want a happy horse?
The best horse fly boots will stop nasty fly bites. Many also have UV protection, which is great for horses with sun sensitivity. It gives them the chance to enjoy more time outside.
Another use that you might not think of immediately is protecting against a leg injury. If your horse has a cut on its leg in the summer, flies are a real nuisance. You can use fly boots to protect the injury and keep flies off of it.
Putting fly boots on a horse can be a challenging task, especially if your horse is not used to wearing them. If you're wondering about "how to put fly boots on a horse," our articles can provide you with helpful tips and tricks to make the process easier and less stressful for both you and your horse.
How To Choose The Best Fly Boots For Horses?
There isn’t a huge difference between the various types of fly boots. However, when looking for the best horse fly boots, there are a few things that will help you choose the perfect ones.
- Size
Because fly boots have a looser fit, it is important that you choose the right size. Otherwise, they are more likely to twist or slip down. Most options come in a variety of sizes.
It will help to measure your horse’s legs before buying a set.
- Durability
Some fly boots are more durable than others. If your horse is going to spend a lot of time wearing them, especially in a paddock, you want boots that will hold up to abuse.
- Shape and Fit
There are a couple of different styles of fly boots. Loose fitting and contoured are what you will find the most.
A looser style will allow more airflow, but not all horses will like them. On the other hand, some horses won’t like the more restricted feel of contour-style boots.
You will need to figure out what fits your horse prefers when choosing boots. Many equestrians find the contour boots are more adjustable and less likely to slip down.
- Fabric
All fly boots are made from a mesh fabric. However, you will notice that there are different types of mesh. Some are stiffer and heavier, while others are softer and more lightweight.
Some mesh fabric will also have UV protection. I like this feature for sensitive horses. You will also find that some boots have fleece trim.
While the fleece is a good way to prevent rubs, it can make your horse’s legs hotter in very warm weather.
FAQs
When Should I Use Horse Fly Boots?
You should use horse fly boots in warmer weather when there are flying insects out. Use them anytime your think your horse is being affected by flies.
How Tight Should Fly Boots Be?
Fly boots should be snug enough that they don’t slip, but you don’t want them tight. Because horses wear them for long periods, you want to avoid putting pressure on the lower leg. This can damage tendons and retain heat.
How Do You Put Fly Boots On a Horse?
To put on fly boots, place them so the top sits just below the knee and secure them snuggly. Make sure they aren’t too tight and that you can fit a couple of figures between the boot and the horse’s leg.
When securing the straps, ensure that you apply even pressure. Make sure the ends of the straps face back and are on the outside of the leg, just like putting on tendon boots.
How Do You Clean Fly Boots?
Fly boots are pretty easy to clean by spraying them off with the hose or soaking them in a bucket of soapy water. If they are very dirty with thick mud, soak them first so you don’t damage the mesh.
Leave them outside to dry in the fresh air, don’t put them in the dryer.
Conclusion
There are lots of different fly boots are available. Luckily, choosing the best fly boots for horses is pretty easy since there isn’t much difference between them.
My final recommendation of the Shoofly Fly Boots is one of the most versatile options that will suit many horses. They are extremely popular, and many equestrians love them.
Do you use horse fly boots? If so, what is your experience with them? I’d love to hear from you, so let me know in the comments.
Resources
- 1. Kerlin KE. How Zebra Stripes Disrupt Flies’ Flight Patterns . UC Davis. 2019. Available from: https://www.ucdavis.edu/curiosity/news/how-zebra-stripes-disrupt-flies-flight-patterns
- 2. Sarah. What are Fly Boots for Horses? - An overlooked alternative . Ranvet. 2021 . Available from: https://www.ranvet.com.au/what-are-fly-boots-for-horses/