Every summer the same debate kicks off in Facebook groups: "Which fly spray actually works?" After years of trying everything from bargain supermarket bottles to premium equestrian brands, I decided to test five of the most popular options side by side over a full summer season. Here's what I found.
How We Tested
Each spray was used for a minimum of two weeks on the same horse under the same conditions — turned out during the day in a field with typical fly and midge pressure. I assessed longevity (how long does it actually last?), effectiveness (does it stop flies landing?), ease of application, smell, and coat condition after use.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price | Lasts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAF Off Citronella | Best Overall | ★★★★★ | £14.99 | 6-8 hrs |
| Carr & Day & Martin Flyguard | Best Premium | ★★★★★ | £22.99 | 8-10 hrs |
| Lincoln Fly Repel+ | Best Value | ★★★★★ | £8.99 | 4-6 hrs |
| Equimins Fly Free | Best Natural | ★★★★★ | £12.50 | 3-4 hrs |
| Global Herbs FlyFree | ★★★★★ | £16.00 | 3-5 hrs |
NAF Off Citronella
The clear winner. NAF Off Citronella delivered the best balance of effectiveness, longevity, and value. It kept flies noticeably at bay for a solid 6-8 hours and left the coat looking shiny rather than greasy. The citronella scent is pleasant without being overpowering — and it's one of the few sprays my horse didn't flinch at.
Pros
- Excellent 6-8 hour protection
- Pleasant scent, not overpowering
- Leaves coat shiny
- Great value at under £15
Cons
- Needs reapplication in heavy rain
- Trigger spray can clog if left
Carr & Day & Martin Flyguard
If budget isn't a concern, Flyguard is genuinely impressive. The longest-lasting spray we tested at 8-10 hours, and it handled midges better than anything else. The DEET-free formula is a plus for sensitive-skinned horses. The only drawback is the price — at £23 a bottle, it adds up over a summer.
Lincoln Fly Repel+
At under £9, Lincoln Fly Repel+ punches well above its weight. It won't last as long as the top picks (expect 4-6 hours of decent protection), but for a budget-conscious option that genuinely works, it's hard to beat. Ideal if you're happy to reapply at lunch.
Equimins Fly Free
If you want to avoid chemicals entirely, Equimins Fly Free is the best natural option we found. The essential oil blend smells lovely and does offer some protection — but be realistic: you'll need to reapply every 3-4 hours and it won't handle heavy fly pressure like the synthetic options.
Global Herbs FlyFree
A decent enough spray but hard to recommend at this price point when Lincoln does a better job for nearly half the cost. It offered about 3-5 hours of moderate protection and the spray mechanism was a bit inconsistent. Not bad, just not great value.
The Verdict
For most riders, NAF Off Citronella is the one to buy. It offers the best balance of protection, longevity, and value. If you've got a horse with sensitive skin or you're dealing with serious midge problems, it's worth spending more on Carr & Day & Martin Flyguard. And if you're on a tight budget, Lincoln Fly Repel+ does the job — just keep the bottle handy for a midday top-up.
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