Should Your Horse Wear a Fly Mask While Shipping? Here’s What to Know
- By Brett Lieb
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- 11 Sep, 2025
Whether you're traveling to a local show or hauling long-distance, keeping your horse comfortable and protected during travel is a top priority. While most horse owners focus on leg wraps and hay nets, fly masks are an often-overlooked piece of travel gear, and they can make a big difference.
🕶 Why Use a Fly Mask During Travel?
Shipping can be stressful on horses, and their eyes are particularly vulnerable in trailers.
Here’s how a quality fly mask can help:
1. Protect Against Dust and Debris:
Trailers, especially in dry conditions or on gravel roads, can kick up a surprising amount of dust. That dust often blows back into the horse’s face, irritating their eyes and leading to watering, rubbing, or squinting. A fly mask acts as a barrier against airborne debris, keeping your horse’s eyes clean and comfortable.
2. Block Harsh Sunlight:
If you’ve ever ridden in the passenger seat with the sun glaring through the window, you know how intense it can be. Horses traveling in open-sided trailers or stock trailers are exposed to that same sun. A fly mask with UV protection helps reduce glare and squinting, especially for light-eyed or sensitive horses.
3. Prevent Eye Injuries:
Shipping often involves quick stops, turns, or sudden movement. Horses may bump their heads or rub their faces out of stress or boredom. A well-fitted, structured fly mask can provide a layer of protection to the delicate eye area.
🐴 Choosing the Right Mask for the Job:
Not all fly masks are created equal, especially when it comes to trailering. Here's what to look for:
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Structured Fit: A mask that maintains shape around the eyes helps prevent rubbing and pressure during long rides.
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Secure Closure: Strong, wide Velcro ensures the mask stays put, even if your horse moves or tosses their head.
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Durable Design: The road can be rough. A quality mask holds up to hours of wear and doesn’t sag or collapse.
- UV Protection: Look for masks that block at least 95% of UV rays, especially if you’re hauling in the heat or over long distances.
Our TUFFTEQ Fly Masks are designed for more than just pasture use. With built-in visors for added UV protection, reinforced structure, and secure fit, they’re ideal for keeping your horse comfortable and protected, even on the road.
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Sep 11, 2025 - by Brett Lieb