In summer, the fly sheet becomes indispensable. It protects sensitive horse skin from annoying insects, ensures peace in the pasture, and is often in use all day long. However, not every fly sheet meets the high standards of horse and rider—especially when temperatures rise. This is exactly when cotton reveals its natural strengths.
Cotton – the natural fiber for summer
Cotton is one of the oldest textile fibers in the world—and for good reason. It is skin-friendly, breathable, and pleasantly cooling. For fly sheets, this means:
- No heat build-up under the sheet
- Gentle on sensitive horse skin
- Environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and resource-saving
In contrast, many synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon may appear tear-resistant at first glance, but they have significant disadvantages:
- They trap heat and moisture
- Can cause chafing
- Made entirely from petroleum—far from sustainable
For riders who value natural materials and their horse’s well-being, cotton is clearly the better choice.
Wet it? Absolutely!
On particularly hot days, the cooling effect of a damp cotton fly sheet is unbeatable. Simply soak it with water or dip it in the trough, wring it out slightly, and place it on your horse. The evaporative cooling effect keeps your horse pleasantly refreshed—even in high temperatures.
But does it affect tear resistance?
Definitely not.
Cotton is an exceptionally robust natural fiber. When wet, the fibers swell and become even stronger. This means water does not reduce tear resistance—it actually improves it slightly in the short term. Perfect for use in the pasture, during transport, or in the stable.
Cotton vs. Synthetics – a direct comparison:
| Feature | Cotton | Synthetics |
|---|---|---|
| Breathability | High | Low to moderate |
| Environmental impact | Very high (renewable) | Low (petroleum-based) |
| Cooling effect | Yes (when damp) | No |
| Skin-friendliness | Gentle, natural | Potentially irritating |
| Tear resistance when wet | Stable to stronger | Often weaker |
Conclusion for discerning horse owners
If you want to offer your horse the very best—while valuing quality, sustainability, and functionality—a cotton fly sheet is the ultimate choice. It not only provides insect protection but also offers pleasant cooling on hot days. And all that without compromising durability.
For us at Chevaux Nature, cotton is the clear favorite for summer. Natural. Premium. Horse-friendly.
