John Whitaker Rastrick Mesh Fly Rug with Fixed Hood – White

Full-Coverage Fly and UV Protection

The John Whitaker Rastrick Mesh Fly Rug is designed to provide extensive protection against flies, biting insects and harmful UV exposure during spring and summer.

Unlike a standard-neck fly sheet, the Rastrick features an integrated fixed hood that extends coverage along the horse’s neck. This helps reduce exposed areas where flies can reach the skin and eliminates the gap that can sometimes develop between a separate neck cover and the main rug.

A generously sized tail flap provides additional coverage across the hindquarters and top of the tail, helping protect areas that are frequently targeted by insects.

The lightweight mesh creates a physical barrier between the horse and irritating flies while allowing air to move through the fabric. This makes the rug suitable for everyday warm-weather turnout when protection is required without the weight or insulation of a turnout rug.

It is a practical choice for horses that stamp, swish their tails or become unsettled when insect activity increases.

Lightweight Mesh for Warm-Weather Comfort

Warm-weather horse rugs must provide protection without causing the horse to become unnecessarily hot. The John Whitaker Rastrick uses a lightweight mesh construction that allows air to circulate around the horse’s body.

This breathable design makes the rug suitable for use during warmer spring and summer conditions. It provides a protective layer against flies and insects without the heavy filling found inside stable and turnout rugs.

The white finish helps reflect sunlight rather than absorbing as much heat as a darker fabric. It also gives the rug a smart, clean appearance while making dirt, damage and insect activity easier to identify during daily checks.

The Rastrick is particularly useful for horses that need regular fly protection during turnout but still require good airflow around the body and neck.

As with any summer rug, the horse should be checked regularly. Remove the rug periodically to inspect the coat and skin, and ensure your horse is not becoming too warm during changing weather conditions.

Secure Fit with Freedom of Movement

The John Whitaker Rastrick Fly Rug combines adjustable fastenings with movement-friendly features to help provide a secure and comfortable fit.

Double buckle chest fastenings allow the front of the rug to be adjusted around the horse’s chest. Three hook-and-loop fastenings secure the integrated hood along the neck, helping maintain consistent coverage while the horse is turned out.

Shoulder gussets provide additional room through the front of the rug. This allows the horse’s shoulders to move more freely when walking, grazing or moving around the field.

Underneath the horse, two crossed surcingles help prevent the rug from shifting or lifting during normal activity. The distinctive Whitaker-branded centre section also helps stabilise the rug and maintain its position.

At the rear, a large tail flap extends protection across the hindquarters without preventing the horse from moving its tail naturally.

Correct adjustment is essential. The fastenings should hold the rug securely without becoming tight, restrictive or loose enough for the horse to catch a leg.

Choosing and Fitting the Correct Fly Rug

A correctly fitted fly rug will provide better protection and reduce the risk of rubbing, slipping or restricting the horse’s movement.

To choose a rug size, measure your horse from the centre of the chest, around the side of the body, to the furthest point of the hindquarters where you want the rug to finish. Keep the measuring tape level and follow the natural line of the horse’s body.

When fitted, the front of the Rastrick should close securely without pulling tightly across the chest or shoulders. The shoulder gussets should sit in the correct position, and the fixed hood should extend comfortably along the neck when the horse lowers its head to graze.

Adjust the crossed surcingles so they sit securely underneath the horse without hanging excessively low. You should normally be able to place approximately a hand’s width between the straps and the horse’s belly.

Check the rug after the first few periods of wear and inspect the shoulders, chest, withers and mane for signs of pressure or rubbing.