Let’s be honest, fly season in the UK is no joke. From head-tossing in the field to mid-hack meltdowns and itchy, grumpy horses, these bugs know how to ruin a good day. And while there’s no one magic solution, there are a few things that genuinely help.

Here are five tried-and-tested tips we use ourselves, based on real horses, real yards, and a healthy dose of summer reality.

1️⃣ Fly Rugs That Fit (And Stay On)

A decent fly rug is worth its weight in gold, if it fits properly. Look for lightweight mesh, breathable panels, a decent tail flap and belly flap, and leg arches that don’t restrict movement.

✔️ Adjustable fastenings matter, especially if your horse likes to roll.
✔️ Watch for rubs on the shoulders, withers and chest.

🧡 We rate the HY Equestrian fly rugs for quality, durability and a great fit, even on the awkward ones. Matching fly masks available too for the full bug-beating look.

2️⃣ Choose the Right Repellent (And the Right Application Method)

Some horses will stand quietly while you spray. Others act like you’re trying to poison them with citrus-scented fire.

That’s why it helps to have options:

🧴 Sprays for quick all-over coverage

🧽 Sponge-on or gel for sensitive types or fiddly areas

🌀 Roll-ons for faces, ears and legs

✋ Hands-on application for bonding time

Our picks this season:

Leovet Phaser PowerZone Spray – long-lasting & strong

NAF Off Citronella Gel – ideal for sensitive souls

Love the Skin range – garlic-based spray + gel combo

3️⃣ Support from the Inside Out

Fly management isn’t just what you put on your horse, it’s also what you feed.

Supplements like garlic, brewer’s yeast and soothing herbs can make your horse less appealing to flies and support skin health too.

🌿 We recommend:

Hilton Herbs Bye Bye Itch – herbal support for horses prone to sweet itch

Omega Equine Garlic Granules – simple and effective

Easy to feed, great results, and ideal as part of a long-term routine.

4️⃣ Don’t Forget Yard Hygiene

Flies love mess. And smells. And damp corners. The cleaner your yard, the fewer will hang around.

A few simple habits go a long way:

Clear muck heaps regularly

Keep bins sealed

Clean out buckets, corners and feed rooms

Use safe, pet-friendly disinfectant

🧼 Products like Aqueos disinfectant spray or Barrier V1 are great to have in the tack room.

Clean yard = fewer flies = happier horses.

5️⃣ Layer Up Your Approach

This is the bit most people forget, the best fly protection is layered.

A typical daily combo might look like this:

✅ Garlic in the feed

✅ Morning spray (choose your method)

✅ Fly rug and mask for turnout

✅ Top-up with gel or roll-on before riding

✅ Clean yard and stable each night

It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what works, consistently.

Final Thoughts

Flies might be inevitable, but suffering doesn’t have to be.
Whether your horse is spray-phobic, sweet itch-prone, or just a drama queen in the field, a smart routine makes all the difference.

🛒 Everything mentioned in this post is available now on the Four Hills Equestrian website, and don’t forget, students and graduates get 15% off with Student Beans!

💬 Got questions? Need help picking the right products for your horse? Just drop us a message — we’re always happy to help.