Lycra hoods are something that is often discussed in forums. They range from very cheap to pretty expensive. Whilst they are often used for keeping horses clean or perhaps for fly protection, some of the more expensive brands make claims such as:
- “….support your horse by aiding in concentration, eliminating fatigue and soreness, relieving tension, and enhancing energy.”
- “The breathable 4-way stretch titanium fabric, with soundless ears, assists with decreasing nervousness during competition, which naturally increases focus to enhance performance.”
- “Far infra-red therapy…which can help your horse relax & focus by reducing stress & anxiety naturally.”
- “…anti-UV & Anti-bacterial”
So, what evidence is there to support these claims?
There is good evidence that stockings or tights over the muzzle of some horses or ponies with trigeminal-mediated headshaking can reduce the frequency and/or severity of symptoms. We also know that contact with the skin can alter proprioception and that “Thunder jackets,” “Calming jackets,” or “Thunder shirts” can help reduce anxiety in some dogs and cats, although these cover the majority of the body, not just part of the head.
As far as I can see, NONE of the companies making claims to aid concentration, eliminate fatigue, relieve tension, calm horses, decrease nervousness, increase focus, increase relaxation, reduce stress or enhance energy have any EVIDENCE AT ALL. If owners perceive them to work and write testimonials, this may well be due to a placebo effect; that is, the owner hopes or expects that the mask will work and, therefore, imagines an improvement. There may also be a real change, but due to a change in the owner’s behaviour rather than a real effect of the mask.
I would not put owners off trying a lycra mask if they need the proposed benefits, but please do not pay £70 to £150 for one! You can forget the “magic” Far-infra-red therapy. This is pure pseudo-scientific rubbish!
I found plenty of “non-magical” lycra hoods for horses online in the £20-£40 range. Or see if you can borrow one from a friend to try.
