How to Keep Your Horse Comfortable and Protected: Essential Gear and Tips

As any rider knows, a horse’s comfort and well-being are crucial for their performance and overall health. Whether you’re working on groundwork, training, or simply turning your horse out for some free time, providing the right equipment can make a big difference in keeping them comfortable and safe.

Here’s a guide to some essential gear that helps maintain your horse’s comfort and protection—allowing you to focus on training and performance without worrying about discomfort or distractions.

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1. Fly Masks: Protecting Your Horse’s Eyes and Face

Flies and other pests are a common nuisance for horses, and they can cause major discomfort if not addressed. A fly mask is an excellent piece of equipment designed to protect your horse’s face and eyes from flies, dirt, and debris. These masks not only reduce irritation from insects but also provide relief from the sun and wind.

Why Use a Fly Mask?

• Fly protection: A fly mask provides a physical barrier that keeps flies away from sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, and ears.

• UV protection: A fly mask with UV-blocking fabric protects your horse from harmful sun exposure, which is especially important for horses with lighter coats.

• Reduced stress: Flies can cause anxiety and irritation. A fly mask helps your horse stay calm and focused during training or turnout.

At Harrison Howard, we offer a range of fly masks that cater to different needs, from those offering UV protection to breathable designs perfect for everyday use.

👉 Explore our range of fly masks

2. Fly Boots: Essential Protection for Your Horse’s Legs

Just as a fly mask protects your horse’s face, fly boots are designed to protect your horse’s legs from flies, debris, and minor abrasions. During turnout or training, flies often gather around your horse’s legs, particularly near the fetlocks, causing irritation and distraction.

Why Use Fly Boots?

• Fly protection: Fly boots act as a shield against flies, preventing them from landing on your horse’s legs.

• Prevents abrasions: Fly boots can also protect against small cuts, scrapes, and debris that can irritate the horse’s legs.

• Comfort and breathability: Fly boots are made from lightweight, breathable materials that keep your horse’s legs cool while providing protection.

The Harrison Howard Fly Boots are crafted from durable, breathable fabric that offers maximum protection while keeping your horse comfortable.

👉 Discover our Fly Boots collection

3. Saddle Pads: Comfort and Performance for Every Ride

A well-fitting saddle pad is essential for your horse’s comfort, especially during longer rides or training sessions. A high-quality saddle pad helps distribute the weight of the saddle evenly and absorbs sweat, reducing the risk of chafing or soreness.

Benefits of Using a Good Saddle Pad:

• Pressure distribution: Evenly distributes the saddle’s weight, helping prevent discomfort or sores.

• Sweat absorption: Helps keep your horse dry, preventing skin irritation from moisture buildup.

• Breathability: Choose a saddle pad with breathable materials to allow air circulation and reduce overheating.

The BreezyFit Saddle Pad by Harrison Howard is designed with these factors in mind, making it perfect for training and long rides, ensuring that your horse stays comfortable and protected.

👉 Shop for breathable saddle pads here

• ComfortCore Mesh Bareback Pad with Matching Fleece Girth $105.99
• Equi-Poise General Purpose English Saddle Pad $50.99
• CoreRide Mesh Riding Half Pad $24.99
• Equi-Poise Square Quilted Western Saddle Pad WT $52.99
• ComfortCore Equestrian Bareback Pad with Girth $94.99

4. Grooming: Keep Your Horse Clean and Healthy

Regular grooming is an important aspect of horse care. It helps remove dirt, sweat, and loose hair, preventing skin irritation and discomfort. Grooming also promotes blood circulation, which can improve your horse’s overall well-being.

Proper grooming ensures that your horse stays clean and reduces the risk of infections or irritations caused by sweat or dust.

5. Hydration: Keeping Your Horse Cool and Refreshed

Whether training or resting, it’s important to ensure your horse stays hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, reduced performance, and even health problems. Ensure your horse has access to clean, fresh water at all times, particularly after training or long hours in the pasture.

Hydration Tips:

• Offer fresh water regularly: Horses should have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

• Add electrolytes: In hot conditions or after strenuous training, adding electrolytes to your horse’s water can help replenish the minerals lost through sweat.

Keeping your horse hydrated helps prevent fatigue and promotes better performance in training and competition.

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6. Sun Protection: Don’t Forget the Sensitive Areas

Horses with lighter coats or pink skin are particularly vulnerable to sunburn. It’s important to protect areas like the nose, ears, and muzzle, especially when out in the sun for extended periods. A fly mask with UV protection is one of the best ways to keep your horse’s sensitive areas protected.

According to the British Horse Society, protecting your horse from sunburn and UV exposure is crucial for their health, especially in horses with white markings or pink skin.
👉 British Horse Society on Sun Protection for Horses

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Conclusion: The Best Gear for Keeping Your Horse Comfortable

By combining the right fly mask, fly boots, and saddle pads, you can ensure that your horse is comfortable, protected, and focused on training. Whether you’re working in the arena or turning out in the field, investing in high-quality gear will enhance your horse’s comfort and performance.

At Harrison Howard, we provide premium products designed for your horse’s comfort and well-being. From fly masks to fly boots, our gear is built to last and ensure your horse’s comfort.

👉 Shop our full collection of horse care gear