A fly sheet only works if it fits. Too small and it rubs the shoulders and withers. Too big and it slips sideways, gaps at the chest and can tangle legs in the paddock. The good news: measuring takes two minutes with a soft tape and a helper.
What you need
- A soft sewing tape or a piece of string and a ruler
- A helper to hold the end of the tape
- Your horse standing square on flat ground
Step 1: find your starting point
Place the end of the tape at the centre of the chest, where the neck meets the front of the chest.
Step 2: run the tape along the side
Bring the tape around the widest point of the shoulder and along the side of the body, keeping it level and flat against the coat.
Step 3: stop at the point of the buttock
Finish at the back of the hindquarters, at the point of the buttock, roughly where the tail would hang if you drew a line straight down. That number is your horse's rug size.
Reading the size
Rug and fly sheet sizes are listed in different systems: centimetres, feet and inches or letter sizes, depending on the brand. Always compare your measurement with the size details for the exact product you are buying. If you are between two sizes, the larger one is usually the safer choice for a fly sheet, as long as the chest strap can be adjusted to close the gap.
Checking the fit once it is on
- Chest: you should be able to fit a flat hand between the front buckles and the chest.
- Withers and shoulders: the sheet should sit in front of the withers without pressing on them. Check for rubbing after the first few days.
- Cross surcingles: adjust so you can fit a flat hand between the straps and the belly. Too loose and a hind leg can get caught.
- Tail: the tail flap should cover the top of the tail without pulling.
Daily checks in fly season
Take the sheet off regularly to check the coat underneath, look for tears and make sure straps have not loosened. On very hot days, keep an eye on your horse for signs of overheating and make sure there is shade and plenty of water.
Complete the fly kit
A fly sheet works best together with a fly mask with ears and good paddock management. Read our guide on how to keep flies off your horse in an Australian summer, or see our breathable mesh fly sheet.
Not sure of the size? Email us your measurement at tailvia.shop@gmail.com and we will help you choose before you order.