How to Measure: Fly Sheets

A fly sheet is your first line of defense against insects, UV rays, and summer heat. But its effectiveness is entirely dependent on the fit. A sheet that is too small can restrict your horse’s movement and cause painful rubbing on the shoulders, while one that is too large can twist, snag, and become a hazard.

Here is the essential guide to measuring your horse for a fly sheet to ensure maximum protection and comfort.

What You'll Need

  • A flexible tape measure (preferably a soft tailor's tape)
  • A pen and paper
  • A horse standing quietly on level ground

Step 1: The Essential Measurement (Center of Chest to Tail)

Most major fly sheet brands, especially those using U.S. and international sizing (measured in inches or centimeters), rely on a single, continuous measurement.

  • Start Point: Place the end of the tape measure in the center of your horse’s chest, where the neck meets the chest.
  • Path: Run the tape measure along the side of the horse, over the widest point of the shoulder and barrel.
  • End Point: Extend the tape until it reaches the point of your horse's buttocks/tail. This is often called the "tail dock."
  • Recording: Record the measurement in inches (or centimeters), which is the number you will use to match the brand’s sizing chart.

Step 2: Understanding Sizing Systems

Once you have your measurement, you need to understand how different brands label their sheets.

Always check the brand’s specific size chart. If your horse measures 77 inches, and the sheet comes in sizes 76 and 78, it is generally safer to size up to the 78 to prevent shoulder rubbing, but a tight fit can sometimes be better if the sheet runs large.

Step 3: Checking for Proper Fit

Before removing the tags, check these areas to confirm a good fit:

  • Shoulder Gussets: The gussets (the folded areas at the shoulder) should sit right at the point of your horse’s shoulder. If they are too far back, the sheet is too small. If they fall below the point of the shoulder, the sheet is too big.
  • Neck Line: The neck opening should not pull or gap. You should be able to slide your hand comfortably under the sheet at the withers.
  • Length: The hemline of the sheet should drop to the bottom of the barrel, about midway down the leg. The sheet should end right at the point of the tail—not draping over it.
  • Belly Straps: The cross-surcingles should cross centrally and allow about a hand's width (4 inches) of space between the strap and your horse's belly. If they hang lower, the sheet is too loose.


A correctly sized fly sheet is more than just a piece of fabric; it's an investment in your horse's health and comfort during the warmer months. By meticulously taking that essential measurement from the center of the chest to the point of the tail, you guarantee a sheet that fits like a glove—preventing the painful shoulder rubs caused by ill-fitting tack and eliminating the dangerous shifting or snagging of oversized sheets. This attention to detail ensures your horse benefits from full UV protection, constant relief from irritating flies, and a longer life for the sheet itself. Ultimately, a perfect fit translates directly into a happier, calmer, and healthier horse out in the paddock.

Shop Fly Sheets

  • Product Image

    Cashel Crusader Fly Mask with Ears

    From $29.99
    From $29.99 Was: $32.99 Save: 9% off
  • Product Image

    Amigo Mio Combo Flysheet

    From $51.32
    From $51.32 Was: $99.99 Save: 49% off
  • 5-888513-white-a.jpg

    TuffRider Comfy Mesh SNeck Fly Sheet

    From $39.99
  • Product Image

    Sale

    WB ComFiTec Ripshield Plus DetachNeck

    From $98.00
    From $98.00 Was: $149.95 Save: 35% off
  • Product Image

    Amigo Mio Combo Fly Sheet

    From $51.26
    From $51.26 Was: $80.00 Save: 36% off
  • 4-216455.jpg

    TuffRider Comfy Mesh Combo Neck Fly Sheet

    From $46.00
    From $46.00 Was: $57.99 Save: 21% off
  • 4-247659.jpg

    Sale

    Kool Coat Airstream Detach-A-Neck Fly Sheet

    Starting at: $62.29
    Starting at: $62.29 Was: $79.95 Save: 22% off
  • Product Image

    Cashel Patterned Fly Mask

    From $25.99
    From $25.99 Was: $28.99 Save: 10% off
  • Product Image

    Kensington 73% UV Protective Fly Sheet

    From $179.00
    From $179.00 Was: $249.99 Save: 28% off
  • Product Image

    Sale

    Rambo Protector Plus Fly Sheet

    From $126.47
    From $126.47 Was: $210.00 Save: 40% off
1 10
View all