Is Your Horse’s Fly Gear Actually Protecting Against UV? Why Fabric Really Matters.
As temperatures rise and UV indices hit record-breaking levels across North America this summer, horse owners are taking a hard look at the gear they rely on to keep their animals safe. And while fly masks and sheets are a staple in every barn this time of year, not all of them deliver the UV protection your horse truly needs.
If your current gear isn’t cutting it, the consequences aren’t just cosmetic. From sunburn to coat bleaching to long-term skin damage, inadequate UV protection can have lasting effects on your horse’s health and comfort.
The Hidden Danger: Not All Fly Gear Blocks UV
Many fly masks and sheets claim to provide "UV protection"—but the truth is, those claims vary widely in accuracy and effectiveness. The biggest differentiator? Fabric.
Cheap mesh products may offer airflow and insect protection, but they often let in large amounts of UV radiation, especially if the weave is too open or the material degrades under sun exposure. Over time, this leaves your horse exposed, even if they’re fully covered.
So how do you know if your fly gear is actually doing its job?
What to Look for in Real UV-Protective Horse Gear
-
Tight, Durable Weave
A tighter weave blocks more UV rays. But it also needs to remain breathable—which is where superior engineering comes into play. -
Proven UV Ratings
Look for fly gear that lists specific UV-blocking percentages. The best UV fly masks for horses will block 70% or more of harmful rays. If the brand doesn’t disclose its rating, chances are, it's not a priority. -
Sun-Stable Materials
Inferior materials break down in the sun, reducing effectiveness. Long-term exposure should never mean lower protection.
Why Kensington’s Textilene® Fabric Sets the Standard
At Kensington, we don’t just claim UV protection—we back it with science and real-world performance. Our patented Textilene® mesh is engineered to offer:
- Up to 78% UV protection
- A tightly woven yet breathable structure
- Industry-leading ripstop durability
- Fade and mildew resistance in all climates
That means your horse stays cooler, safer, and better protected, even during the hottest, brightest days of summer.
And unlike some fly gear that’s practically disposable by season’s end, Kensington’s products are built to last—offering UV protection that doesn’t quit when the weather gets tough.
It's Time to Re-Evaluate Your Horse’s Gear
This summer, with the sun stronger than ever, now’s the time to ask:
Is my horse’s fly gear really doing enough?
If your answer is “I’m not sure,” it’s time to upgrade to proven protection.
Explore our full line of UV-protective fly masks and sheets featuring Kensington’s exclusive Textilene® fabric. Your horse deserves the best defense—against flies and the sun.
Stronger sun. Smarter gear. Superior protection.