Summer Horse Care Essentials 2026: Fly Masks, Grooming & More
Summer Horse Care Essentials 2026: Keep Your Horse Cool, Protected & Looking Great
Summer is one of the most demanding seasons for horse owners. Rising temperatures, biting insects, heavy shedding, and long riding days all take a toll on your horse's comfort and health. The good news? With the right gear, you can keep your horse protected, cool, and performing at their best all season long.
Here's our complete guide to summer horse care essentials โ all available in our Horse Supplies collection.
๐ด Fly Masks: Your Horse's First Line of Defense
Flies aren't just annoying โ they can cause eye infections, skin irritation, and serious stress for your horse. A well-fitted fly mask is one of the most important summer investments you can make.
Our Top Fly Mask Picks:
Jeffers Expression Lycra Horse Fly Mask with Ears
A lightweight, breathable Lycra construction that fits snugly without restricting vision. The ear covers add full-head protection against gnats and flies. Ideal for horses sensitive to fabric weight.
Best for: Sensitive horses, everyday summer wear
Jeffers Expression Deluxe Mesh Fly Mask with Ears and Nose
Maximum coverage with mesh panels over the ears and nose โ perfect for horses in high-insect environments or those prone to nose fly irritation. The mesh allows excellent airflow while blocking insects.
Best for: High-insect areas, horses with nose sensitivity
Smooch Horse Fly Mask โ White
Clean, classic, and effective. The Smooch fly mask offers reliable protection with a comfortable fit and easy on/off design. The white colorway reflects heat, helping keep your horse cooler.
Best for: Everyday use, heat-reflective protection
Card Room Cowgirl Horse Fly Mask โ Red
Who says protection can't be stylish? This western-inspired fly mask delivers solid fly coverage with a bold, eye-catching design. Great for show days or just standing out at the barn.
Best for: Style-conscious riders, western aesthetic
TuffRider Comfy Plus Zebra Print Fly Mask
The zebra print isn't just fun โ research suggests zebra-like patterns may actually confuse and deter flies. Comfortable, durable, and a conversation starter at the barn.
Best for: Fly deterrence, fun barn style
๐ Shop all options in our Fly Masks for Horses and Horse Fly Masks & Veils collections.
๐งด Grooming Essentials: Summer Coat Care
Summer means sweat, dust, and shedding. A solid grooming routine keeps your horse's coat healthy, skin clean, and your bond strong. These are our go-to tools:
Jeffers Dual-Sided Horse Grooming Mitt/Brush
Two tools in one โ a rubber curry side for loosening dirt and a brush side for finishing. Perfect for quick post-ride grooming sessions when time is short.
Jeffers Double Track Shedder
Even in summer, horses shed. This double-track shedder pulls loose hair efficiently without irritating the skin โ a barn bag essential.
Jeffers Double Shedding Blade
For heavier shedding or sweat removal after a hard ride, the shedding blade is unmatched. Flexible and easy to use across the body and legs.
Jeffers Expression Horse Grooming Tote
Keep all your summer grooming tools organized and portable. This tote is roomy, durable, and easy to carry from stall to crossties.
Jeffers Expression Trailer Door Grooming Caddy
Heading to a show or trail ride? This trailer-door caddy keeps your grooming kit accessible and organized on the go โ a must for summer travel.
๐ Browse the full Horse Grooming Supplies collection.
๐ Saddle Pads: Breathability Matters in Summer
Hot weather means more sweat under the saddle โ which makes breathable, moisture-wicking saddle pads essential for your horse's comfort and back health.
Lettia Coolmax Western Saddle Pad
Built with Coolmax fabric specifically designed to wick moisture and promote airflow โ one of the best summer saddle pads for western riders. Keeps your horse's back drier and cooler during long rides.
Best for: Western riders, hot climates, long trail rides
TuffRider Jumping Saddle Pad
A reliable, well-priced jumping pad that holds its shape and washes easily โ important when you're riding multiple times a week in summer heat.
Best for: English/jumping riders, frequent washing
YeeHaw Wool Saddle Pad
Wool is a natural temperature regulator โ it wicks moisture and keeps the back from overheating. The YeeHaw pad is a premium choice for riders who want natural materials and superior performance.
Best for: Natural material preference, temperature regulation
๐ Shop all saddle pads in our Horse Tack collection.
โ Summer Horse Care Checklist
Before the heat peaks, make sure you have these bases covered:
- โ Fly mask โ fitted and ready for daily turnout
- โ Grooming kit โ curry, brush, shedder, and shears organized in a tote
- โ Breathable saddle pad โ moisture-wicking fabric for summer rides
- โ Halter โ properly fitted for daily handling
- โ Trailer caddy โ grooming on the go for shows and trail rides
Shop All Horse Supplies
Everything your horse needs this summer is in one place:
- All Horse Supplies
- Fly Masks for Horses
- Horse Grooming Supplies
- Horse Tack
- Horse Fly Masks & Veils
- Horse Shoes, Boots & Wraps
Questions about what's right for your horse? We're here to help โ reach out anytime.