6 Best Fly Boots for Horses

That relentless thump, thump, thump of a horse stomping in the pasture is a sound every horse owner knows. It’s not just an annoying noise; it’s the sound of discomfort and, over time, potential damage. Gnats and biting flies drive horses to distraction, and the constant stomping they cause can lead to cracked hooves, shoe loss, and unnecessary stress on joints and ligaments.

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Stopping Constant Stomping from Painful Gnat Bites

The problem starts with the smallest of pests. Gnats, no-see-ums, and biting flies tend to swarm a horse’s lower legs, delivering painful bites that cause intense irritation. A horse’s only defense is to stomp, shake, or kick, trying to dislodge the tormentors.

This constant, repetitive impact is hard on the body. It can lead to everything from soreness and stocking up to serious long-term issues like ringbone or sidebone, especially in older horses or those with pre-existing conditions. While fly sprays offer temporary relief, they wear off quickly with sweat and weather, but a good set of fly boots provides a physical barrier that works 24/7.

ShooFly Leggins: Airflow and a No-Sag Design

If your biggest complaint with fly boots is that they end up bunched around your horse’s ankles, ShooFly Leggins are the solution. Their design uses a stiff, porous plastic mesh that holds its shape, promoting fantastic airflow while keeping the boot upright. You won’t find these sagging.

The key is the sewn-in plastic stays and the unique shape that flares out at the bottom, covering the coronary band without rubbing the pastern. This makes them a great choice for horses turned out for long periods, as they stay put and don’t trap heat. The tradeoff is that they are bulkier than fabric boots, but for a no-fuss, stay-in-place option, they are hard to beat.

Cashel Crusader Leg Guards for Sensitive Skin

Some horses have skin as delicate as a flower petal, and stiff mesh can cause rubs and sores. For these sensitive types, the Cashel Crusader Leg Guards are a go-to. They are made from a softer, more pliable mesh and often feature fleece trim along the edges for extra comfort.

This softer construction allows the boot to conform more closely to the leg, reducing the chance of chafing on thin-skinned horses. The main consideration here is fit. Because they are less rigid, an improper size is more likely to slide down, so careful measurement is non-negotiable.

Kensington Fly Boots: Durable and UV Protective

For the horse that is tough on its wardrobe, Kensington boots are built to last. They are constructed from Textilene®, a woven PVC-coated polyester fabric famous for its durability and resistance to fading, mildew, and tearing. These boots can handle a horse that likes to play hard in the pasture.

A significant bonus is the fabric’s ability to block up to 73% of harmful UV rays. This is a game-changer for horses with chrome, white socks, or pink skin that is prone to sunburn and photosensitivity. While they might feel a bit stiff out of the package, they break in nicely and provide rugged, long-lasting protection.

Pro Choice Boots: Secure Fit for Active Horses

If you have a pasture athlete—a horse that gallops, bucks, and rolls with abandon—you need a boot that can keep up. Pro Choice Fly Boots are designed with a contoured, anatomical fit and robust hook-and-loop closures that keep them securely in place. They are less likely to twist or be kicked off during vigorous activity.

This secure fit is their main advantage, ensuring the boot stays where it’s supposed to be, protecting the cannon bone and sensitive tendons. The compromise for such a snug fit can sometimes be reduced airflow compared to more open-mesh designs. It’s a choice between maximum security for an active horse versus maximum ventilation for a quieter one.

Shires Arma Airflow Boots: A Breathable Option

In hot, humid climates, trapping heat around the leg is a real concern. The Shires Arma Airflow Boots tackle this head-on with a 3D mesh construction that maximizes air circulation. This helps keep the legs cool and comfortable, even on the steamiest summer days.

These boots are exceptionally lightweight and flexible, which many horses appreciate. They also feature soft fleece edging to prevent rubbing. The only potential downside is that ultra-lightweight, breathable materials may not stand up to a destructive horse as well as a heavier-duty boot like a Kensington.

WeatherBeeta Insect Shield Wraps: Built-in Repellent

WeatherBeeta takes a two-pronged approach with its Insect Shield Wraps. Not only do they provide a physical barrier, but the fabric is also treated with a bonded permethrin repellent. This technology repels flies, gnats, and ticks before they even have a chance to land and bite.

This dual-action protection is fantastic for horses that are extremely sensitive to bugs. The repellent is odorless, invisible, and remains effective through dozens of washes. While you’re still relying on the physical wrap, the added repellent gives you an extra layer of defense that other boots just don’t have.

How to Measure Your Horse for the Perfect Boot Fit

A fly boot that doesn’t fit is worse than no boot at all. A boot that’s too tight can restrict blood flow and cause rubs, while one that’s too loose will sag, collect debris, and fail to protect your horse. Getting the right fit is everything.

To measure, grab a soft fabric measuring tape. First, measure the circumference of your horse’s cannon bone at its widest point. Second, measure the length from just below the back of the knee down to the coronet band (where the hoof meets the hair). Always compare these two measurements to the manufacturer’s specific sizing chart, as a "Cob," "Horse," or "Warmblood" size can vary dramatically between brands.

Choosing the right fly boot comes down to knowing your horse and your environment. Whether you need the no-sag structure of a ShooFly, the durability of a Kensington, or the built-in repellent of a WeatherBeeta, the goal is the same. The right pair will bring quiet back to your pasture, protecting your horse’s legs and your peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do fly boots for horses do?

Fly boots for horses protect lower legs from biting flies, prevent painful stomp-induced concussions, and shield delicate skin from harsh UV rays. By creating a physical barrier from the coronet band up to the knee or hock, these boots stop stomping that causes chipped hooves and loosened shoes. Most designs also reduce bot fly egg attachment on the cannon bone. Use them during peak fly season between spring and early autumn.

What are fleece-lined fly boots for horses designed for?

Fleece-lined fly boots for horses are designed to prevent chafing, cushion delicate skin, and block biting insects from crawling beneath the top and bottom rims. The plush fleece trim seals gaps against small gnats and dirt while distributing pressure evenly across the pastern and tendon areas. Horses with sensitive pink skin, thin coats, or scarring particularly benefit from this added padding. Look for synthetic fleece because it dries faster and holds less moisture after rain.

How do I measure a horse for fly boots?

Measure your horse’s lower leg circumference around the widest point of the fetlock and determine height from just below the knee down to the coronet band. Use a flexible cloth tape measure in inches or centimeters, keeping the horse standing squarely on flat ground. Compare those two measurements against the manufacturer’s sizing chart, which typically ranges from small pony up to warmblood. Note that hind legs frequently require one size larger or a taller cut than front legs.

How do you clean muddy fly boots for horses without ruining the velcro?

Fasten all hook-and-loop straps completely before washing, then scrub away dried mud using cold water and a stiff-bristled dandy brush. For heavy grime, soak the boots in a bucket of cold water mixed with mild dish soap or horse shampoo for 20 minutes. Avoid hot water, bleach, and machine dryers, which warp plastic stays and melt nylon hook fasteners. Always hang the boots out of direct sunlight until thoroughly dry before placing them back on your horse.

Which is better mesh fly boots or solid fly wraps for horses?

Mesh fly boots are generally better for hot summer turnout because their open weave allows continuous airflow while still blocking biting flies and ultraviolet rays. Solid wraps or quilted standing bandages retain body heat and sweat, which can quickly scald sensitive skin and weaken tendons in high temperatures. Mesh boots also shed water quickly after rain or dew instead of absorbing moisture. Choose solid wraps only when you need medical compression, poultice coverage, or wound protection rather than daily fly defense.

How much do fly boots for horses cost for a full set of four?

A full set of four quality fly boots for horses typically costs between $35 and $90, depending on the brand, materials, and built-in stays. Basic soft mesh sets without rigid supports fall into the $25 to $40 range, while heavy-duty boots featuring plastic stays, contour shaping, and fleece lining run between $50 and $90. Premium antimicrobial sets can occasionally exceed $100. Investing in durable Textilene or ripstop mesh usually saves money over cheaper pairs that tear or sag within weeks.

Why do fly boots for horses keep sliding down the leg?

Loose hook-and-loop straps, broken internal plastic stays, accumulated mud, or purchasing a size too large cause fly boots for horses to slide down and bunch at the fetlock. Check the vertical stays sewn into the seams, as bent or snapped stays eliminate the upright structure needed to resist gravity. Clean hair and debris out of the velcro teeth with a wire brush so closures achieve full grip. If the boot overlaps excessively around the cannon bone, downsize by one size to get a secure fit.

Is it safe to leave fly boots on horses in wet muddy turnout?

Leaving fly boots on horses in deep mud or soaking rain is unsafe because trapped grit and moisture cause severe rubs, fungal scratches, and skin infections. Wet mud forces abrasive dirt under the fabric, where leg movement acts like sandpaper against the pastern and heel bulbs. When pastures turn saturated, remove the boots until the footing dries, or swap wet pairs daily for clean, dry ones. Inspect your horse’s legs every 24 hours for heat, swelling, or missing hair under the boot line.