Whether you use them to keep the flies at bay while you’re hacking or to muffle sounds at busy competitions, the best acoustic ears for horses should look smart and fit well. Ear bonnets are also known as fly veils or fly hoods, but they’re all the same thing – albeit will offer varying levels of sound muffling.
The fit is really important for your horse’s comfort and for them to function at their best. If your horse has particularly large or small ears, this is something you need to take into consideration before purchasing. A good fit will also help keep the bonnet in place and reduce any risk of it slipping off.
If style is important to you, search for a design and colour that you like — ear bonnets come in the brightest and discreet tones — or, if you are so inclined, you will find some come as part of a matchy-matchy set with matching saddle pads, protective boots or bandages.
Some ear bonnets are specifically designed to block out noise and the ears of these are usually made of dense sound-reducing foam or other fabric and contain additional layers to help muffle the sound. Different materials do this with varying levels of success. If sound reduction is your priority, it would be worth opting for an ear bonnet that incorporates a foam material in the ears.
If flies are your main issue, consider adding one of the best fly sprays to your fly defence kit or considering a ride-on fly mask (like this one from Equilibrium).
Best acoustic ears for horses
LeMieux Acoustic Pro Fly Hood
Colours: Black, brown or navy
Sizes: M or L
This ear bonnet uses dense soundproof micro-foam to absorb sharp or loud noises to help with increased concentration and relaxation. The ears are made of a four-way stretch fabric that contours the ears while the soft bamboo inner lining ensures maximum comfort. The hand-crocheted veil section features an embossed PU leather panel for an elegant touch. The latest design is also wider behind the ears, which makes it more secure under the bridle. It’s machine washable at 30°C.
Woof Wear Noise Cancelling Fly Veil
Colours: Black, black/grey or black/navy
Sizes: S–L
Featuring acoustic foam in the ears to soften the harshest sounds and keep your horse focussed, this ear bonnet is made from a soft, technical mesh fabric that keeps your horse’s head cool while preventing pressure points. It’s cut generously behind the ears to enable a secure fit under bridles, including those with anatomical headpieces. The ear bonnet is finished with satin and a smart rope binding. It’s machine washable at 30°C.
Shires Arma Calm Fly Hood
Colours: Navy, brown, white or black
Sizes: Cob or full
This bonnet is designed to keep distractions to a minimum. The ears have a micro-cellular foam coar that absorbs unexpected noises. They’re also ergonomic and not too bulky. The rest of the bonnet is crocheted to be breathable while protecting against flies.
Rhinegold Noise Muffler Fly Veil
Colours: Black, brown, plum, raspberry, red, tangerine or turquoise
Sizes: Pony, cob, full or extra-full
Made with breathable cotton-rich ears, cotton crochet details and contrast binding. This is the cheapest ear bonnet in our guide, so would make a good starter bonnet if you’re unsure how your horse will feel about wearing one.
WeatherBeeta Prime Ear Bonnet
Colours: 14 options
Sizes: Pony or full
H&H Review: 8/10
This bonnet has high-density cotton drill ears for noise reduction and features strings so that it can be secured to the bridle. It coordinates with the WeatherBeeta Prime range and is machine washable at 30°C. It can also be tumble-dried on a cold setting.
Read H&H’s independent WeatherBeeta Prime Ear Bonnet review.
Coldstream Marygold Fly Veil
Colours: Black, white, mulberry purple, blush pink, fern green or slate blue
Sizes: Pony/cob or full
This stylish ear bonnet is designed using a close-knit crochet to optimise fit, comfort and breathability. The smooth silk ears create a luxurious appearance and it’s elegantly finished with delicate golden braiding and logo pin detailing on a silk background.
Hy Sport Active Fly Veil
Colours: 13 options
Sizes: Pony/cob, cob/full or full
The handmade close-knit crochet design has a smart look and can be coordinated with the Hy Sport Active range. It features high-density ear fabric that softens sound. It’s also machine washable.
Fenwick Liquid Titanium Ear Bonnet
Colours: Black or grey
Sizes: L or XL
This ear bonnet is made from Fenwick’s therapeutic liquid titanium fabric, which generates warmth and boosts circulation with the aim of aiding relaxation. The fabric also has a four-way stretch and can be used on a wet or dry horse. It’s also machine washable.
Also available with acoustic ears.
Read H&H’s independent Fenwick Liquid Titanium Ear Bonnet review.
Can I wear an acoustic ears for dressage?
Yes. The British Dressage rule states that ear bonnets are permitted for all competitions, and may provide noise reduction. But they must not cover the horse’s eyes and should be discreet in colour and design.
Do horse ear bonnets work?
Horse ear bonnets are effective in providing protection and comfort. These bonnets shield horses’ ears from insects, which can cause irritation and distraction, particularly during rides and competitions. They also help to muffle loud noises, reducing stress and helping horses stay focused in noisy environments.
Ear bonnets are designed to fit snugly without causing discomfort. Made from breathable, lightweight materials, they ensure the horse remains cool while wearing them. Properly fitted ear bonnets can enhance a horse’s performance by keeping them calm and free from distractions.
What is the best ear bonnet for spooky horses?
The best ear bonnets for spooky horses are those that provide both comfort and noise reduction. Look for bonnets with soundproofing features, such as padded or double-layered ears, to help muffle loud noises that can startle horses.
A snug, secure fit is also crucial to prevent shifting during movement. Additionally, choose a bonnet with a design that covers the ears completely without causing irritation. These features collectively help reduce stress and improve focus, making them ideal for spooky horses.
Do ear covers help spooky horses?
Acoustic ears can help spooky horses by reducing stress and distractions. These bonnets often have soundproofing features that muffle loud noises, which can startle sensitive horses. By diminishing these auditory stimuli, the best acoustic ears for horses help keep them calm and focused, especially in noisy environments.
Additionally, ear bonnets protect against insects that can irritate horses and cause them to become jumpy. A comfortable fit will also ensure the horse remains at ease without irritation. Overall, ear bonnets can be a valuable tools in various settings.
You might also like:
Had enough of annoying flies? We’ve tested some fly sprays to find which really work
Fly fringes: cheap, simple and effective
12 great GP saddle pads for everyday riding
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access throughout the Olympics and more
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
