Riding in a Flymask??

Everyone tells me not to put a flymask on my horse when riding then someone else tells me it's ok to put one on when riding.
I'm so confused.
Can you or can't you put a flymask when riding?
Does any one know?

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Geoffrey Pannell on December 4, 2008 at 4:56pm

Hi Tayla, I would say no to the flymask , I 'm not a big fan of them. Most of the time they don't fit very well and can rub the horse's eye's. If your horse shakes his/her head bacause of the flies, you can get some natural fly repelent and rub it on with your hands [ keep it away from Pippi's eyes' though ] whoroo Geoffrey

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Sandy on December 5, 2008 at 10:13am

Better to use a fly bonnet that's meant to be worn with a bridle than a fly mask, in my opinion. They can see out of a fly mask, but would think that it would obstruct their vision, and might be uncomfortable under a bridle.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Shannon on December 7, 2008 at 11:15pm

My first horse was slowly going blind. In order to protect his eye and save his sight I rode him in a special mask that he also wore in his paddock. I now use hat same mask on my second horse. Its has sunblocking properties but also keeps the flies at bay.
So, my response would be that its okay to ride with a fly mask over a bridle but consider the effects on your horse.
A dark mask may obstruct vision so jumping or moving over rough terrain might be a bad idea.
It could be uncomfortable, so watch for rubs or other signs from your horse.
Good suggestions have already been suggested, like fly repellent and a fly bonnet. You can also buy a "comfort ride" mask (i think its called) which is a fly mask designed to go over a bridle. Its made of a softer, more see through material.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Amber J. on December 11, 2008 at 5:13am

Yes i do but not in jumping if I'm just riding around at home i leave it on and he always has it on in the paddock and it does not rub him at all

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Chris Parkinson on December 11, 2008 at 6:29pm

hello all,
I have heard this debate before and I still say only when absolutely necessary.

I think the horse's eyes will adapt better without it, unless they have an infection you are treating maybe. But yes, I think it can both ways.

horses for sale