Farnam SuperMask II Review: The Best Horse Fly Mask?
Estimated reading time: 11 minutes
Key Takeaways
- All-Encompassing Protection: The Farnam SuperMask II offers full coverage for your horse’s sensitive eyes, face, and ears against flies, gnats, dust, and debris.
- Comfort-First Design: Plush fleece-like trim prevents rubbing and chafing, making it ideal for horses with sensitive skin or for long hours of wear.
- Superior Durability & Fit: Built with strong materials and a secure double-latch closure system that stays put even on active horses.
- Unobstructed Vision: The see-through mesh with clever eye darts ensures clear visibility while keeping the material away from your horse’s eyes.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Buzz About Fly Protection
- Our Verdict: Is the SuperMask II a Winner?
- Key Features & Benefits In-Depth
- What We Liked
- Potential Drawbacks
- Who Is This Fly Mask For?
- Comparison to Alternatives
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion: A Clear Choice for Equine Comfort
Introduction: The Buzz About Fly Protection
Every horse owner knows the struggle: summer arrives, and suddenly flies, gnats, and biting insects are everywhere. They don’t just annoy your horse—they cause stress, constant head-shaking, painful bites, and even serious eye problems like conjunctivitis. Keeping your horse comfortable and safe is a priority, and while sprays, sheets, and ointments can help, nothing offers reliable daily protection quite like a quality fly mask.
That’s where the Farnam SuperMask II Horse Fly Mask with Ears comes in. Trusted by horse owners for years, this mask promises a balance of durability, comfort, and visibility that many competitors lack. In this detailed review, we’ll explore whether it lives up to the hype and why it might be the fly mask your horse has been waiting for.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN extends over horse’s face to provide extra…
- PROTECT & SHIELD flies and gnats from landing on your horse’…
- BUILT TO FIT and made to stay on! This product features a do…
- CARE WITHOUT COMPROMISING COMFORT by protecting your horse w…
Our Verdict: Is the SuperMask II a Winner?
After putting it to the test, we can confidently say yes. The Farnam SuperMask II delivers on its promises—it protects, it lasts, and it’s designed with your horse’s comfort in mind. While it costs more than budget-friendly masks, its durability and secure fit make it a smart investment that saves you money in the long run.
Key Features & Benefits In-Depth
Comprehensive Protection
The fine mesh shields against flies, gnats, and mosquitoes while also blocking dust and debris. Soft ear covers protect the delicate inner ear, ensuring all-around coverage.
Clear Vision with Smart Design
Eye darts keep the mesh lifted away from your horse’s eyes, preventing irritation and ensuring full visibility—so your horse feels confident and secure.
Comfortable Plush Trim
The fleece-like trim prevents rubbing and chafing, making this mask especially suitable for horses with sensitive skin or those wearing it for extended hours.
Durable & Secure Construction
Made from tough, tear-resistant mesh with reinforced stitching, plus a double-latch closure that stays put even during rolling or turnout play.
What We Liked
- Double-latch closure that resists removal.
- Soft fleece edging for comfort and skin protection.
- Eye darts that preserve clear, natural vision.
- Durable construction built to last multiple seasons.
- Comprehensive ear coverage without overheating.
Potential Drawbacks
- Sizing: Correct measurement is crucial for the best fit.
- Warmth: Ear covers may add slight heat in very humid climates.
- Price: Higher than budget options, but worth it for durability.
Who Is This Fly Mask For?
This mask is perfect for horse owners who value long-term durability, own playful or “Houdini” horses that love removing masks, or need a solution for sensitive-skinned equines prone to rubs. It’s also great for areas with heavy fly infestations where full coverage is essential.
Comparison to Alternatives
vs. Lycra/Pull-On Masks: Lycra masks are snug but tear easily and lack durability. SuperMask II is tougher and more secure.
vs. Masks Without Ears: Ear-free masks may feel cooler but leave horses vulnerable to biting insects inside the ears. SuperMask II offers fuller protection.
vs. Nose-Flap Masks: Masks with nose flaps provide extra sun protection, but for everyday turnout, the SuperMask II strikes the best balance of comfort, fit, and coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I size the SuperMask II?
Measure from poll to jaw and around the horse’s head. Compare with Farnam’s sizing chart to ensure a proper fit.
2. Is it washable?
Yes—close fasteners, place in a mesh laundry bag, wash on gentle with mild detergent, and air dry.
3. Does the mesh reduce vision?
No, the see-through mesh and structured darts ensure visibility, even in low light conditions.
4. Does it provide UV protection?
Yes—it blocks around 70% of UV rays, which helps prevent sun-related eye strain and discomfort.
Conclusion: A Clear Choice for Equine Comfort
The Farnam SuperMask II Horse Fly Mask with Ears stands out for its durability, comfort, and smart design. From the secure double-latch system to the fleece-lined trim and vision-friendly mesh, every feature is tailored to keep your horse happy and protected. While not the cheapest option, it’s a long-term investment that pays off in reliability and peace of mind.
