Paddock & Field

Fly and Turnout Boots

The fly boots and turnout boots protect your horse's legs during turnout in the paddock or pasture. Fly boots are made of light and breathable mesh and keep flies, horseflies, and other insects at bay, allowing your horse to graze peacefully without irritation. Turnout boots are ideal in wet or muddy conditions and help prevent mud fever and skin problems. Thanks to the good fit and breathable materials, the legs remain comfortable and clean.

At DocHorse, you will find a wide range of fly boots and turnout boots from top brands such as Horseware, Rambo, and LeMieux.

7 Items

Protectors in the pasture and paddock – fly boots & turnout boots

When horses are in the pasture or paddock, their legs are often exposed to insects, UV radiation and moisture, mud and friction. Fly boots and turnout boots (also known as mud boots) are specially designed to protect the legs against insect bites, mud fever (poor skin in wet conditions) and damage.

Why use fly boots or turnout boots?

  • Protection against insects: flies, horseflies, and other biting insects can cause irritation, rubbing, and excessive stomping. Fly boots use breathable mesh or textile and provide a barrier against insects and UV radiation.
  • Preventing mud fever: in wet, muddy pastures, skin problems such as mud fever often arise. The protectors reduce direct contact with wet ground, moisture, and dirt.
  • Maintaining comfort & freedom of movement: good models fit snugly, are lightweight, and limit heat buildup in the leg.

Important features to look out for

  • Material & ventilation: choose mesh or breathable material that allows air circulation to limit heat and moisture buildup.
  • Fit & closures: snug fit, adjustable Velcro or other closures that do not come loose during movement.
  • Reinforcement in vulnerable areas: areas around the fetlock, cannon, or shins can be extra reinforced for protection against friction.
  • Ease of maintenance: easily washable, quick-drying material.

Tips & usage

  • Gradually build up use: start with a short period and increase this as the leg gets used to it.
  • Regularly check the skin under the protection (to rule out irritation or chafing).
  • In wet weather: choose protectors with better drainage, so water can flow away.
  • Clean the boots frequently so that dirt, mud, or insect traps do not cause skin problems.

Advice from our specialist

Choosing the right protectors for the paddock or pasture depends on your horse's needs:

  • Does your horse suffer a lot from flies or horseflies? Then choose fly boots made of breathable mesh. These keep insects at bay without the legs getting too warm.
  • Is your horse often in wet or muddy conditions and sensitive to mud fever? Then turnout boots or water-repellent paddock protectors are ideal. They protect against moisture and dirt and reduce the risk of skin problems.
  • Looking for extra comfort or protection against rubbing? Choose models with fleece or soft linings, for example from LeMieux or Horseware.
  • Do you want long-term use (day and night)? Pay attention to breathability and light materials, so that no excessive heat or irritation occurs.

Always regularly check the skin under the boots and clean the protectors frequently to avoid dirt and bacteria. Doubting? Our specialists are happy to help you choose the right type of fly boots or turnout boots for your horse.

    Frequently asked questions about turnout and fly boots

  • What are fly boots and turnout boots?

    Fly boots are lightweight, breathable protectors that protect your horse's legs from flies and horseflies. Turnout boots are paddock protectors that protect the legs from moisture, mud, and mud fever during turnout.
  • When do I use fly boots?

    Fly boots are mainly used in the summer months when insects are active. They prevent irritation, stomping with the legs, and wounds from insect bites. They also protect white legs from sunburn due to UV radiation.
  • Do turnout boots help against mud fever?

    Yes, turnout boots protect the legs against wet and muddy conditions in the paddock or pasture, reducing the chance of mud fever and skin problems.
  • Can fly boots stay on all day?

    Yes, but regularly check your horse's skin and ensure the boots remain clean and dry. Always choose models made of breathable mesh to prevent heat buildup.
  • Which materials are best for paddock protectors?

    Breathable mesh is ideal against insects, while water-repellent or quick-drying material is better for wet conditions and mud fever sensitivity.
  • Are fly boots and turnout boots suitable for all horses?

    Yes, they are available in different sizes and designs. Horses sensitive to flies or skin problems benefit most from them.
  • Which brands of fly boots and turnout boots are popular?

    Popular brands include Horseware, Rambo, LeMieux, and Eskadron, with models in mesh, fleece-edged, and water-repellent variants.
  • Where can I buy fly boots and turnout boots for horses?

    At DocHorse, you will find a wide range of fly boots and turnout boots from top brands, always competitively priced and directly available from stock.
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