Sometimes a horse and rider just fit together. Heather Blitz and Paragon are a perfect example. They’re a fairy tale duo and an inspiration. Heather’s 17.3 hand chestnut shows it all off — the elegance, the extravagant movement and the blue fly bonnet. And not just any blue, electric blue — at the Pan Am Games, no less!
We’re seeing more and more dressage horses in fly bonnets, following on the heels of their showjumping compatriots. While a fly bonnet is a practical accessory when the insects become annoying, it’s also a great fashion accessory for your horse.
Despite how old-fashioned they sound (bonnets? veils?), there are some strikingly beautiful modern examples. I just heard about the De La Coeur line and all I can say is ooh la la. Well, I can also say abonimablement cher, but très ooh la la.
Adorned with three rows of hand-stitched crystals. Wow.
If this is a little over-the-top for you, the company also has more traditional, less “coming down the red carpet” bonnets, pony bonnets, and even a special edition bonnet that benefits thoroughbred rescue.
Pastel-trimmed pony bonnet (S,M,L)
Custom orders are welcomed and you can opt for soundproof ears. So much better than cotton balls — or, to stay with the old-fashioned bonnet/veil theme, cotton wool.
Reflections on Riding 
I have to admit I’ve never really liked the look of those things. I had one years ago that I’d put on my arab when we went for a trail ride, it kept the flies out of his eyes but those darn deerflies would bite right through the ears!
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Darn deerflies is right. And then there are those greenflies and the triangular ones that bite the split-second they land and hard.
Generally, I like to teach a horse to tolerate things — like bugs in the ears — but sometimes, it’s too big an attack and overly distracting for the horse and that’s when the fly bonnet comes out. More setting up for success!
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