Safety vests are par for the (cross country) course in the world of eventing, but they’re still uncommon in the equestrian disciplines of show jumping and hunt seat. Why? While eventers are galloping at top speed over solid obstacles, accidents can still happen any time you’re riding a horse, whatever the discipline.
Horse riding body protectors and air vests are starting to break out of the eventing world and become more acceptable in all other disciplines, even in the tradition-focused hunter ring. But if you’re still on the fence about wearing an equestrian safety vest, these answers to common questions will help.
My horse and I are experienced. Do I really need one?
This is perhaps the most common question when it comes to whether or not you need to wear an equestrian safety vest or horse riding body protector. “My horse and I know what we’re doing. I hardly ever fall off. I don’t event. Is it worth the investment?” Accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of your experience level or what level you’re competing at.
Kevin Babington is an Irish equestrian who rode in two different Olympics. Needless to say, he’s about as experienced as it gets. Still, he had a terrible accident that resulted in a life-changing injury. According to the Kevin Babington Foundation, “In late August 2019 Kevin suffered a complete spinal cord injury after a fall during the 2019 Grand Prix at the Hampton Classic Horse Show in Bridgehampton, NY.”
Every horse and rider pair is unique. Just because you haven’t fallen off in a long time doesn’t mean that you won’t fall off the next time you get on. You may be more likely to wear an equestrian safety vest on a green or unfamiliar horse, but anything can happen any time you swing a leg into the saddle, no matter what discipline you ride. Falls and accidents are not limited to the cross country course. Why limit the best safety equipment to event riders?
Are my ribbons at risk?
Many hunter and equitation riders worry that they’ll take themselves out of the ribbons by wearing an equestrian safety vest or horse riding body protector. It’s important to know that judges are not allowed to reduce someone’s points because they’re wearing a safety vest. In 2020, you may have gotten some weird looks for wearing a safety vest, but they’re much more widely accepted today. As Geoffrey Hesslink told Noelle Floyd, “Sometimes we feel like a negative comment or a funny look is the end of the world. It’s not. But in this sport, one serious accident could very well be.”
Major governing organizations have also thrown their support behind safety vests and similar innovative safety technology. In 2023, the USHJA announced an $825,000 campaign to research equestrian safety vests in conjunction with the Virginia Tech Research Lab. The campaign is still in the fundraising stage, however USHJA kicked it off with a $100,000 donation. Both USEF and the USEA have expressed support of horse riding body protectors and air vests by publicly promoting the study.
Will professional riders look down on me?
For young professionals or young riders who hope to have a professional career one day, your connections in the industry can make or break your career. So, what should you do if you worry that established professional riders will look down on you for wearing an air vest? First, this concern is largely unfounded. Consider the fact that if a professional looks down on you for prioritizing your safety, you probably don’t want to be associated with them anyways. Second, there are many professionals who have paved a path to accepting safety vests in competition and at home.
For example, hunter rider Sandy Ferrell became known for wearing a vest back in 2017. Chronicle of the Horse even interviewed her with regard to her safety equipment. According to the article, Ferrell said, “At first I thought people might be a little bit, I don’t know if disapproving is the word. But so many people have said, ‘Kudos to you.’ If you have a dark jacket on, you can’t even really see it, so it’s not like it takes away from ‘the look.’ I know I’ve crushed my body enough times now that it’s got to help me. We have our helmets, but I think anything you can do to protect yourself is good.”
Ex-eventer Doug Payne also wears equestrian safety vests, air vests, and horse riding body protectors in the show jumping ring. He made the change after a fall in an .80 meter class at the start of a two-week long horse show made him consider the financial and organizational implications of getting hurt.
“Safety and your health is the most important thing. It was a pretty natural transition to add the vest in for show jumping as well. It’s been a great addition,” Payne said on Facebook.
Equestrian safety vests are expensive. How can I afford one?
Historically, safety vests, air vests, and horse riding body protectors have required a large financial investment from the rider. As this innovative safety technology has become more widely manufactured and produced, companies like Breeches.com have found new ways to make these vests more accessible to the majority of riders.
For example, the Spark Air Vest is an advanced safety vest that offers optimal protection without compromising comfort. Lightweight and adjustable, this vest ensures freedom of movement during rides. Unlike more traditional body protectors, the Spark Air Vest rapidly inflates upon detecting a fall, providing immediate cushioning to reduce injuries. If you’re feeling self-conscious about debuting a safety vest, the Spark Air Vest has a low-profile design, so you can wear it over or under riding attire– just make sure it has enough room to expand!
Alternatively, the TuffRider Back Protector is perfect for riders who aren’t ready to commit to bulkier full body protectors or who don’t like the inflation of air vests. Meticulously crafted and engineered, this back protector offers lightweight protection and complete freedom of movement in the saddle. Its ergonomic construction adapts to your body, while the adjustable side Velcro closures guarantee a personalized fit.
Shop our collection of equestrian safety vests on Breeches.com.