Fly Rugs

Here at Unamari, we develop, design and manufacture equestrian equipment with the aim of optimizing the horse's well-being and comfort regardless of the season. One of the most uncomfortable times for horses and ponies is when they are grazing peacefully in a field in summer and are bothered by blood-sucking insects. That's why every spring we present new summer innovations in insect protection for horses, including the insect cover, which alleviates many of the discomforts of the summer heat. Our different types of insect covers are produced under our HorseGuard brand.

What is a fly insect rug?

An insect cover for horses is also called a fly cover. It is a specially designed rug that protects the horse from annoying insects such as flies, mosquitoes and gnats. These rugs are particularly useful during the summer months when insect activity is high and horses can be bothered by bites and stings that can cause itching, stress and in some cases allergic reactions.

When to use a fly insect rug?

Insect rugs are primarily used during the summer months, especially during periods when there are many insects that can bother the horse. It is therefore important to use insect protection. Insect covers are ideal for use both in the paddock and in the stable, depending on where the horse is most exposed to insects. Insect covers can be a great help in ensuring your horse's well-being and comfort during the warmer months and can make a big difference in protecting your horse from those pesky insect pests.

Features of insect rugs

Our insect covers are made of lightweight and breathable mesh fabric, which allows air circulation so your horse doesn't get hot, even on hot summer days. The fine mesh prevents insects from getting through to the skin to suck blood or lay eggs in the coat.

All our insect rugs cover the horse's body and also have neck pieces, tail pieces and belly plates depending on type. Our rugs can also help with UV protection if that's a problem your horse suffers from.

Our extensive experience in the production of riding equipment means you can be sure of a good fit on your new insect rug. The horse's comfort is also taken into account in the form of adjustable buckles and elastic straps that help ensure that the rug sits well on the horse's body without chafing or restricting the horse's freedom, both when grazing or eating and when moving around the paddock or box.

Benefits of using an insect rug for your horse

An insect rug not only protects against the irritation insects can cause the horse, but also against painful bites and stings. An insect cover can therefore help improve your horse's overall comfort and reduce stress. When the horse is free from insects, it can relax and focus more easily both in the paddock and during exercise. An insect cover can also prevent allergic reactions and skin irritations caused by insects. You can also combine the insect rug with fly masks if you want extra protection against insects and flies.

Which insect rug should you choose for optimal protection?

We have many different types of insect rugs to give your horse optimal protection against insects. We are always focused on creating products that have a great fit and give your horse optimal protection. Read more about the different variants right here.

HorseGuard Insect Cover

In our popular brand HorseGuard we offer different types of insect cover with neck and insect cover with belly flap, as insects on both the neck and belly are just as annoying for the horse as on the rest of the body. You'll find both insect rugs in solid colors and in a smart zebra print.

Insect rug for rain

Our HorseGuard rug models "Aiman" and "Honour" are very popular insect rugs for fickle summer weather. They are both lightweight and breathable neck insect rugs that are designed with a combination of a water-repellent top piece that covers the horse's neck and back and mesh at the sides.

This type of insect rug is exactly what you need in changeable weather that alternates between sun and rain. The horse is protected from a shower over the back and neck, while also being protected from insects and breathable thanks to the lightweight mesh on the sides. They also have a belly flap. The rugs are available in the full size range from 105-165 cm, so even the smaller ponies to the big horses can get good protection in changeable weather.

Echema rug

Some horses and ponies suffer from summer eczema. Summer eczema is an allergic skin condition that occurs as a reaction to midge bites. It is most commonly seen in the summer months and can cause intense itching, irritation and skin damage when the horse rubs to relieve the discomfort. Symptoms include hair loss, sores and thickened skin, especially around the mane, tail and belly. Summer eczema is extremely uncomfortable for the horse and can be prevented with an eczema blanket that protects against flies, midges and other insects.

Our HorseGuard eczema blanket is very popular. It has a full coverage neck and belly plate. It therefore provides excellent protection and can be a great help for horses prone to eczema. Use it as a preventative measure or put it on if your horse is unlucky enough to have eczema and has started to itch. The rug is lightweight and breathable. This rug is available from a small size 85 up to size 155.

Icelandic horse rug

The above rug is a popular choice as an insect rug for Icelandic horses. Some horses of this breed can be particularly challenged with summer eczema. However, our entire range of insect rugs for horses will fit Icelandic horses as our sizes of all products range so widely.

Insect rugs for riding

Enjoying a nice ride on a warm summer day can quickly be ruined by annoying insects. We offer a smart riding insect cover. The riding insect cover is made in two parts, so the neck piece is removable. There is a cut-out in the saddle bed so you sit directly on the saddle, not on a smooth cover. The Insect Riding Rug is made in a neutral grey color, which gives the rug a nice cooling sensation.

Care and Maintenance of Insect Rugs

Like all riding gear, your Insect Rug should be cleaned regularly to keep it free from sweat, dirt etc. HorseGuard insect rugs can be machine washed at 30 degrees. Remember to use a washing bag for your rug so the metal buckles don't damage your washing machine. You can buy a Horseguard washing bag for tires here