Summer flies at the yard: what I use for Rebel

Flies bother my horse, Rebel, most when he’s in the field, especially around his face. The head-shaking and tail-swishing make it fairly obvious when they’re getting on his nerves. They can be annoying when we’re riding too.

My summer routine is quite simple: a fly mask, his fly rug and the EqWax solid balm I use. These are the things I actually go back to.

A fly mask for the field

The mask is the main thing I use for Rebel’s face in the field. It helps keep the flies away from his eyes, which is where I find they particularly bother him.

He also wears a fly rug through the summer. Premier Equine is my go-to because I find their rugs fit him well and last well. That’s really the reason I keep coming back to them.

The solid balm I use

I use an EqWax solid balm in the field and when we’re riding. I just wipe it on. I’m careful about where I apply it around his face.

For application, follow the instructions on your particular tin; EqWax also advises a patch test before first use.

Keeping summer yard life simple

Those are the main things I use through the summer, rather than adding lots of different products to the routine.

On my side of the stable door, it’s riding clothes, boots and a pair of Cool Horse Socks. A bit of colour among the practical summer kit, whether it’s a riding day or time spent around the yard.

Updated 15 October 2026. Seasonal archive date retained: 16 June 2026.