Summer trends in equestrian fly protection
As summer approaches, consumers begin to plan and prepare for the summer turnout ahead. Quality fly rugs are always a sought-after product throughout the season from as early as March through to October. For smaller stockists or stores with limited storage capacity, it is vital to think ahead and forecast customer requirements.
A huge range of styles and designs are available, but as growing trends suggest, customers may be more willing to purchase higher value rugs and fly protection when the technology has been proven in the field to provide reliable protection, durability, and an extended lifetime.
Contrary to replenishable products such as fly-repellent sprays and gels, customers require a prolonged lifetime from their fly rugs, masks, and boots. To achieve this, high-quality materials and expertise are the most valuable components in the market. From a functionality standpoint, UV protection and heat reflection are the priority. Lighter colours such as silver, white, and blue are often favoured as they naturally reflect light and heat in comparison to the darker options available on the market. With our range at PE offering fly rugs with UV protection from approximately 70% reflective – you and your customers can be confident in the quality you receive.
Size matters
Trends suggest that the most popular sizes of fly rugs are within the regions of 6’0” to 6’9” but you should always consider your existing market and stock rug sizes similar to your most popular sizes of turnout and stable rugs sold within your autumn/winter ’22 period to forecast the most reliable estimation of your specific customer base requirements currently.
Ranges
There are three main design ranges worth providing throughout the season. The most popular, mesh fly rugs with integrated neck covers provide full-coverage and effective protection for the large majority of horses. Incorporating extra length to the neck cover of the fly protection range allows for extended coverage to the poll whilst the horse is grazing. A tried-and-tested favourite is the Combo Mesh Air Fly Rug: made from lightweight and breathable sports mesh, this rug is available in three colours (blue, mint green, and wine) so you can select a variation based on your customer trends and preferences. For budget-conscious customers, the Fly Lite Bug Rug is the perfect alternative, offering effective, affordable protection.
Technological advances
Innovations in technology and design produced the Super Lite Fly Rug which is crafted from interlocking lightweight nylon material. Sheer in appearance, this fabric provides a durable and exceptionally breathable layer to protect against insects and midges whilst allowing for optimal airflow and heat dispersion. For customers looking for the best in summer protective technology – this is the ideal product choice. If abdomen coverage is a requirement, the popular choice would be the long-standing Bug Buster Fly Rug with Belly Flap – offering full coverage of a soft mesh; cut to contour the horse effectively.
For many horse owners, the unpredictable spring weather can be a worry. By providing your customers with hybrid options such as the Stay-Dry range of rugs, you can take away the stress of deciding whether a turnout rug or fly sheet is required on showery days. These rugs offer insect and fly protection as per our renowned range of fly rugs, whilst incorporating a waterproof topline to keep the equine guarded against unexpected showers throughout wear. The premier choice is the Buster Stay-Dry Super Lite Fly Rug: combining the ultra-lite nylon barrier with a 600D ripstop waterproof shield across the length of the topline, offering unparalleled protection. For those requiring the most economical alternative, the ShowerTex Fly Rug offers effective insect and shower protection. Both products are available in an assortment of colour variations to suit your needs.
In order to offer uncompromised protection, essential accessories would include the customer favourite Comfort Tech Lycra Fly Mask: a 360˚ insect protection solution with strapless pull-on design for a secure custom-like fit. The sensory zones are protected by flexible mesh which stands away from the face to prevent irritation. This mask is available in an array of colours and with or without an integrated nose net for further coverage. With 10,000s of fly protection products sold globally last year alone, Premier Equine International is the name you can trust for premium quality products this Spring/Summer Season.