Over the years Ear Bonnets have become a staple in the training and competition wardrobe of riders across the disciplines of Dressage, Jumping and Eventing. In addition to the noticeable benefits, Ear Bonnets are very popular and come in many styles, sizes and colours in the name of fashion, and admittedly it does put the finishing touch on any matchy set. 

Some of the benefits of Ear Bonnets your horse may experience include: 

Improved Focus 

Excess noise, insects or wind can disrupt a horse’s focus, potentially reducing performance. I affectionally call them a ‘thinking cap’ as having an Ear Bonnet on allows a horse to focus on the task at hand which can lead to improved training and competition outcomes. 

Insect & Wind Protection 

Some horses, especially during the warmer months can be annoyed by insects such as flies. If an insect contacts the horse around the head or ear it may cause them to shake their head. An Ear Bonnet provides a physical barrier to keep insect pests at bay.  For wind sensitive horses, an Ear Bonnet reduces the sensation felt around the ears in such an environment. 

Reduced Noise 

Horses of all ages are sensitive to noise, all to varying degrees. Sudden, loud noises can startle or spook a horse causing a horse to react. Ear Bonnets add a layer of insulation in muffling external sounds, effectively ‘turning down the volume’.😊 

Use in Dressage Competition 

It is recommended you check the rules in your state or country for the latest gear rules. Within Australia, Ear Bonnets are dressage legal under the  Equestrian Australia National Dressage Rules with the following conditions that were current at time of writing: 

1. They are of the correct size and do not cover the horse’s eyes. 
2. They may be made of material that provides sound protection and do not have any additional insulation from the manufactured state. 
3. They must not be attached to the noseband. 

NextGen Equine have a range of Ear Bonnets in stock from various brands including E.A.Mattes, Plughz and Waldhausen or you can design your own via the E.A.Mattes Custom Order range.