Epic Equestrian Fly Rugs Tailored Summer Protection for Every Horse
Every horse deserves a fly rug that truly fits. At Epic Equestrian, we’ve revolutionised summer horse care with our dual-fit Fly Rug Collection, offering both Regular Fit for light-to-medium builds and Broad Fit for medium+-to-heavy and muscular horses. This ensures that whether you own a fine-framed thoroughbred, a native pony, a chunky cob, or a towering draft, your horse receives a fly rug that delivers comfort, protection, and durability all summer long.
What is the best fly rug for my horse?
The best fly rug is one that matches both your horse’s build and their individual needs. Unlike one-size-fits-all brands, Epic offers two tailored ranges:
- Regular Fit Fly Rugs – Shaped for lighter, finer horses such as Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Warmbloods, and standard ponies. They provide a snug yet comfortable fit that won’t slip, pinch, or rub.
- Broad Fit Fly Rugs – Designed for chunkier and broader horses such as Cobs, Draughts, Welsh Section D’s, Fjords, Irish Draughts, Iberians Shires and other broader breeds. With extra depth and generous cuts across the shoulders, chest, and neck, they prevent pressure, rubbing, or mane loss while giving freedom of movement.
By choosing a rug that is shaped specifically for your horse’s body type, you not only improve comfort but also extend rug life and reduce the risk of sores or damage.
What are the different types of fly rugs and when should I use them?
Epic Equestrian offers a range of fly rugs to suit different conditions, coat sensitivities, and turnout routines:
- Zebra Fly Rugs – Scientifically proven to deter flies and biting insects by confusing their vision. Perfect for everyday summer turnout.
- Zebra Fly Rugs with Belly Piece – Enhanced protection that shields the sensitive belly area, ideal for horses who live out or are particularly prone to insect bites.
- Ride-on Zebra Fly Rugs - Innovative fly deterring pattern protecting your horse against biting insects and flies whilst you ride.
- Sweet Itch Rugs – Full-coverage protection for horses prone to allergic reactions, midges, or sweet itch. Designed with breathable mesh and secure fastenings for all-day comfort.
- Dri-Fly Rugs (Waterproof Hybrids) – The ultimate rug for unpredictable climates. Combines breathable mesh sides with waterproof panels, keeping your horse cool and protected from sudden summer showers.
With five key options, Epic ensures that there is a fly rug solution for every horse, every build, and every climate worldwide.
Do horses get hot in fly rugs?
This is one of the most common concerns horse owners have. With Epic rugs, the answer is no. Our fly rugs are made from advanced breathable mesh fabrics that encourage constant airflow, wick away sweat, and prevent heat build-up. Unlike cheaper fly sheets that trap heat and cause discomfort, Epic fly rugs are engineered for summer turnout, ensuring your horse remains cool, calm, and insect-free. Even our Dri-Fly waterproof rugs balance rain protection with breathability to avoid overheating. However, in extreme heat, just like you and me, horses will get hot with or without wearing a fly rug.
Do fly rugs protect against sunburn and UV rays?
Absolutely. Horses with pale coats, pink skin, or sensitive areas are highly vulnerable to sunburn, coat bleaching, and UV damage in summer. Epic fly rugs offer UV reflective approx. 70% to shield your horse while still allowing airflow, making them an essential choice for horses turned out during the hottest part of the day.
Why choose Epic Equestrian over other fly rug brands?
Many horse owners struggle with generic rugs that don’t fit their horse properly, leading to:
- Shoulder pinching and sores
- Chest fastenings too high
- Mane rubbing and hair loss
- Rugs slipping sideways during turnout
Epic is the only equestrian brand that has engineered correctly fitting fly rugs by build type, ensuring both Regular Fit and Broad Fit options. This means no compromise on comfort, no restricted movement, and no unnecessary rubbing.
Every Epic fly rug is designed with:
- Ergonomic shaping for freedom of movement
- Reinforced stitching for durability during turnout
- Secure fastenings that prevent slipping
- Strategically placed chest fastenings to prevent pinching, pressure points and sores
- Antibacterial linings for hygiene and coat health
- Advanced breathable mesh that keeps horses cool in hot weather
When you invest in an Epic fly rug, you’re not just buying protection against flies you’re investing in a rug that is scientifically designed, build-specific, and made to last season after season.
Summary of Benefits
- Available in Regular Fit (light–medium builds) and Broad Fit (medium+ to heavy builds)
- Options include Zebra, Sweet Itch, Belly Piece, Ride-on and Dri-Fly waterproof hybrids
- Breathable mesh prevents overheating even in hot climates
- Provides UV reflective protection to prevent sunburn and coat bleaching
- Sweet Itch rugs deliver full coverage for sensitive horses
- Tailored fits prevent slipping, rubbing, and mane loss
- Built to last with reinforced stitching & premium materials
- Trusted worldwide for comfort, durability, and summer protection
