How to Repel Midges to Enjoy Outdoor Bite-Free Adventures

From May through to September, midges will emerge from hibernation and cause a range of problems for people and animals alike. Flying in cloud-like swarms and often biting anyone they come in contact with, these tiny flying insects are a true menace to hikers, horses, campers, travellers and livestock.

If anything is going to get in the way of your summer plans or outdoor working schedule, it's midges and their appetite for warm-blooded creatures. In our latest blog, here at Waterman's Country Supplies, we will explore what defines these nuisance insects, and most importantly, how to go about shielding yourself against midge bites.

What Are Midges?

A midge is a general term that encompasses a large number of small non-mosquito related fly species. They are found seasonally and almost everywhere on land, except areas that experience extremes of temperature such as deserts and arctic regions.

With a wingspan of only around 2mm, hundreds and even thousands of midges can swarm and bite exposed areas of skin.

While they lack visual and aural senses, midges have a strong sense of smell and can detect carbon dioxide and lactic acid emitted from the bodies of humans and animals. Once a midge or a few midges have honed in on a food source, they release pheromones that will cause other midges to swarm to the site and bite.

But why are midge bites so itchy? Most of the time midge bites will cause a small, red and itchy lump on the skin. The midge will cut into the skin using its jaws in a gyrating, sawing action before applying saliva to prevent clotting.

Although they won't pass on diseases, they can trigger an aggressive immune system response in some people. In fact, midges haven't evolved in millions of years, proving that they are one of the most perfectly adapted blood-feasting insects in nature.

How To Avoid Midges

1. Avoid warm, damp spring seasonal conditions where midges will surge in numbers.
2. Aim to work or plan activities in sunny conditions which will subdue midges. Wind and colder spring days will also be unfavourable to swarms.
3. Refrain or limit activity on particularly cloudy days as midge swarms are most active under cloud cover.
4. Remain in exposed locations and avoid pitching a tent or setting up camp near more shady or secluded areas.
5. Find cover when the sun is down as midges will go into a feeding frenzy around sunrise or sunset.
6. Stay away from environments that are damp underfoot, close to still water or high in moisture. High humidity conditions as well as bogs and any area that has had recent rainfall should also be avoided.

How To Repel Midges

Wear the Hoggs Midgemaster Protective Jacket to shield your body and head against midges on those summer days before the sun rises.

It comes with brilliant visibility, elasticated cuffs, adjustable hem and a zip up head cover to give you all-round protection against these flying and biting insects. 

Use essential oils as natural repellents. Citronella, peppermint oil, lavender and eucalyptus can all be used to repel midges by spraying your equipment or surroundings and even diluting for personal use. Citronella candles can be used to prevent midges from closing in on a localised area.

Cover up your extremities with long sleeves, full length garments and even gloves during peak times such as mornings and evenings. Our jumpers, sweatshirts, and coats are perfect for providing a physical barrier against those annoying midges.

Keep Your Animals Protected

Animals will hate dealing with midges as much as you. If you're out working on the farm, or out in the yard, we have some products which can help out your farm yard animals.

Our flymasks will help to stop those midges landing on your horses face and ears. The UltraShield Horse Fly Mask With Ears & Removable Nose is a great option for keeping horses cool, dry and comfortable, using high-tech fabrics originally developed for human performance clothing.

Protect your horse with Carr & Day Martin Fly guard Extra Strength Insect Repellent. This is an effective, powerful, and long-lasting repellent, formulated for extra strength, it effectively deters midges, mosquitoes, horseflies, and other pests, ensuring comfort during turnout or riding.

Designed for comfort and coverage, it features breathable mesh fabric, soft fleece edges, and a removable nose guard for adaptable protection. The built-in ear covers shield sensitive areas, keeping your horse calm and comfortable even during peak midge season.

It is ideal for use in hot, humid conditions where insects are most active.

We also stock midge repellent shampoo, as well as a range of powerful midge repellents to keep them at bay. See our range here.

If you're averse to dousing yourself in insect repellent, you could spray or soak a wristband in a suitable skin-friendly repellent to keep midges away.

You may need to continue to spray it during long periods outdoors but it's a far quicker and more agreeable alternative to spraying your entire body in repellent and may render similarly effective results.

By taking a few simple precautions and choosing the right repellents, you can enjoy the great outdoors without the constant irritation of midges.

Whether you’re out riding, walking, or working around horses, staying prepared makes all the difference.

Keep your skin protected, avoid peak midge times, and use trusted products for lasting relief. With the right approach, you can make every outdoor moment comfortable, bite-free, and enjoyable.

Shop with Waterman's Country Supplies to enjoy every outdoor adventure.