Protective vests for riders

What are protective vests for?

Chest and spine protection: They reduce the risk of rib fractures, internal organ injuries and spinal damage in falls.

Impact absorption: Special foam or material padding absorbs the energy of the impact.

Safe riding support: They provide a sense of security, which improves concentration and riding technique.

Comfort and flexibility: Modern vests allow free movement of the arms and torso in all riding disciplines.

Competition protection: In many disciplines, such as cross-country, dressage or western competitions, some vests are mandatory.

How to use vests

Choosing the right size: The vest must fit snugly against the torso, but must not restrict movement.

Putting on and fastening: Close all zippers, Velcro fasteners or buckles and check that the vest fits evenly.

Comfort Check: Move your arms and torso to make sure the vest does not restrict movement or breathing.

Riding Use: Always wear when riding off-road, cross-country, or performance riding.

Maintenance: Most vests can be hand or machine washed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Some have removable lining.

Replacement: Vests that have been subjected to impact during a fall should be replaced immediately, even if there is no visible damage.

3

Types of Vests

1. Foam Vests

The most common type, made of foam panels.
Advantages:

Lightweight and flexible

Comfortable for longer rides

Affordable

Disadvantages:

Less resistance to very hard falls

Foam padding can compress over time and lose its protective ability

2. Airbag vests

Modern vests that automatically inflate an air bag around the chest and spine when you fall.
Advantages:

Highest protection in falls

Reduces the risk of fractures and internal organ injuries

Ideal for cross-country and off-road riding

Disadvantages:

Higher price

Requires replacement of the CO₂ capsule after inflation

Occasional need for servicing the mechanism

3. Certified competition vests (EN13158, Level 3)

Meet strict safety standards and are designed for competitions.
Advantages:

High protection of the chest and spine3

Resistant to impacts and falls

Mandatory for some disciplines

Disadvantages:

More expensive than regular vests

Can be less flexible when moving

4. Winter and thermal vests

Vests with warm padding for riding in cold weather.
Advantages:

Keeps the rider's body warm

Combination of protection and comfort

Disadvantages:

Can be bulkier

Less breathable, which can cause sweating

5. Ultralight and flexible vests

Designed for comfort and freedom of movement, suitable for dressage or free riding.
Advantages:

Maximum flexibility and movement

Lightweight for long rides

Disadvantages:

Less impact protection compared to thick foam or airbag vests

Advantages of protective vests

Significantly reduce the risk of serious chest and spine injuries

Absorb the energy of a fall

Increase safety when riding off-road, cross-country or in competitions

Provide comfort and confidence to the rider

Modern materials are light and flexible

Disadvantages

Higher price of quality models (especially airbag vests)

Some models may be less breathable

After a fall or damage, the vest needs to be replaced

They may restrict movement with some types of vests

How to choose the right vest

Size: The vest must fit tightly, must not move during a fall, but allows free movement of the arms.

Purpose: Training, competition, cross-country, recreational riding or winter riding.

Material: Foam, airbag, combination of foam and textile - depending on the required protection and flexibility.

Certification: EN13158 or Level 3 (especially for competition and cross-country).

Comfort: It is recommended to try the vest in motion to ensure freedom of the hands and torso.

Maintenance: Some vests are washable, airbag vests require service of CO₂ capsules and mechanisms.

Accessories: Some vests have adjustable panels, removable lining or ventilation for better comfort.

Usage Tips

Always wear a vest when riding off-road, cross-country or when training new horses

Check fit and fastening before riding

Replace the vest immediately after a fall or impact

Keep the vest clean according to the manufacturer's instructions

For airbag vests, regularly check the mechanism and replace the capsules

Most common mistakes

Wearing the wrong size

Ignoring certification and safety standards

Using an old or damaged vest after a fall

Failure to maintain and clean

Incorrect fastening or adjustment with the buckle

A protective vest is an essential safety device for the rider, significantly reducing the risk of serious chest and spine injuries. The right choice depends on size, purpose, material, certification and comfort, while regular inspection, maintenance and replacement after a fall are key to maintaining safety. Modern vests combine protection, flexibility and comfort, allowing for safe riding in every discipline and during every training session.