As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, your horse’s care routine needs a summer update. The right gear can make all the difference between a comfortable season and one filled with irritation, heat stress, and sunburn.
Here’s our guide to the essential summer horse gear that every owner should have on hand, all available at Nags Essentials.
☀️ 1. Fly Masks
Flies love to target a horse’s eyes, ears, and face, and that irritation can quickly lead to headshaking, stress, or even infection. A well-fitting fly mask protects your horse from insects while allowing clear vision and airflow.
🛡️ Look for: Durable mesh with UV protection, Soft fleece trims for comfort, Ear and nose coverage for extra-sensitive horses
☀️ 2. Fly Sheets and Rugs
Fly rugs provide full-body protection from biting insects and often offer UV-blocking materials to prevent sunburn or coat bleaching, especially in greys and light-coloured horses.
🛡️ Look for: Lightweight, breathable mesh fabrics, Secure belly straps and tail flaps, Designs with neck and chest coverage for maximum protection
☀️ 3. UV-Protective Cream or Horse Sunblock
Horses with pink skin on their noses, around their eyes, or white markings are prone to sunburn. Apply a horse-safe sunblock daily to keep them protected.
🛡️ Great for: Pink noses and light-skinned areas, Horses with white blazes or bald faces, Preventing soreness, cracking, and peeling
☀️ 4. Electrolyte Supplements
Sweating in hot weather means horses lose important salts, which need to be replaced to avoid dehydration and fatigue. Electrolytes can be added to water or feed to support healthy hydration.
🛡️ Top tip: Always provide a plain water option alongside any treated water.
☀️ 5. Cooling Washes and Sponges
After a ride or a hot day, nothing beats a cooling rinse. Use a gentle cooling wash or herbal rinse to refresh your horse’s skin without the need for harsh chemicals.
🛡️ Recommended: Non-rinse formulas that are gentle, soothing, and suitable for daily use
☀️ 6. Lightweight Saddle Pads
Traditional saddle pads can trap heat and moisture. A breathable, moisture-wicking pad helps regulate temperature and keep your horse’s back cooler during summer rides.
🛡️ Choose: Pads with mesh panels, airflow channels, or moisture-wicking linings
☀️ 7. Fly Sprays and Natural Repellents
Layer your protection by using fly sprays or roll-ons before riding or turnout. Natural options are perfect for horses with sensitive skin.
🛡️ Use alongside: Fly masks, sheets, and other gear for full coverage
☀️ 8. Summer Grooming Kit
A summer grooming routine should include: A sweat scraper for post-rinse, Soft brushes to remove dried sweat and dust, Mane and tail detanglers to prevent knots caused by sweat and flies
Conclusion From keeping flies at bay to protecting against the sun, having the right summer gear is essential for your horse’s comfort and health. Whether you're hacking out or managing turnout, small investments in the right kit can make a huge difference.
👉 Explore our full summer range at Nags Essentials and make sure your horse is summer-ready.
