Best UV Fly Mask

[GraceLikeRain]

What is the best high UV fly mask available?

Guardian mask ($125) claims 95% UV coverage. I like that the eyes are structured but the one I had in the past was quite stiff all over: http://www.horsemask.com/Products.html

The equivisor ($39) claims 95% UV coverage as well. The design seems good for riding but I find it hard to believe it can withstand extended unsupervised time: https://www.amazon.com/EquiVizor-Horse-Fly-Mask-Protection/dp/B0713W1JWX

The UViator ($60) is 90% UV coverage. Does 5% make a noticeable difference? This one is most like a typical fly mask which seems encouraging for the likelihood of it staying on unsupervised: https://kensingtonproducts.com/products/uviator-protective-mask-90-uv-protection

ESV Visor ($50-130) has a range of products in the 70-90% range. Tons of customization options and sizing, which should make a true fit much easier: https://www.equinesunvisor.com/esvmaxx.aspx

[Iride]

I’ve owned both the Guardians and the Equivisors. Both do a great job for their purpose, with the Guardian of course being more extreme in its protection in most ways. Yes, it is stiff around the cups, but that is for a reason, to minimize the horse’s ability to rub its eye if it tries to (Guardians are often used for horses with uveitis, eye infections/scratches, etc., or who have a Subpalpebral Lavage placed in their eye for administration of eye medications. You don’t want a horse rubbing that, trust me.) Also, Guardian does offer choices / various levels of UV protection, I believe, in different cups and masks.

The Equivisor’s technique is to provide additional UV protection over the mesh of the mask itself, kind of like a visor would to a tennis player. They are very useful, while being less cumbersome than the Guardians (but also less extreme in their protection, which you may or may not need - couldn’t tell from your post).

I haven’t used the other 2 brands you mentioned so can’t speak to those…

[Pico_Banana]

I have one from Horsey Shades that I really like. But I just googled it and I can’t seem to access the website so maybe it’s no longer in business? Bummer if that’s true because I need a new one!

I didn’t love the Guardian. Caused rubs and was an awkward fit.

I tried the UViator but it was strange sizing. The cob was too small and the horse was too big.

Haven’t tried the others.

[MissAriel]

My two cents - the one your horse will wear. After my horse tore up all sorts of pricey fly/UV masks I found he much prefers the Shires fine mesh one. I know it is much lower UV rating, but he leaves it on. I figure 100% of the time x moderate UV protection is better than 100% UV protection for a few hours.

I did not try the Guardian or the ESV line. Far too much money to destroy in less than a day like other masks.