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Should you wear a body protector when riding?
Body protectors are designed to offer protection to a rider when falling off, being kicked or trodden on by a horse. No body protector can prevent serious injury in every situation, but they can increase the chances of staying alive and reduce the severity of injuries.
How should a horse riding body protector fit?
The body protector should reach to your breastbone and cover your bottom rib. The shoulders and neckline of the body protector should lie flat against your body; if this fit cannot be achieved —if the vest pulls away from your body— then you may need to try a shorter length.
What does a horse riding body protector do?
What do they do? Body protectors are designed to keep us safe in the saddle and on the ground. They absorb the impact created when falling off, being kicked or getting stood on. Their role is to protect the internal organs, defend the chest and ribs and guard against soft tissue injuries.
How is Racesafe measured?
Start by locating the prominent C7 vertebrae at the base of your neck, you will then start measuring from the vertebrae below this. Then measuring straight down to where you want the body protector to finish.
Where should a body protector end?
At the front, the body protector should reach the breastbone at the top and cover the bottom rib at mid-chest by approximately 2.5cm, but should not cover the belly button.
When should I replace my body protector?
every three to five years
Replacing your body protector Body protectors should be replaced every three to five years, as the impact absorption properties of the foam may decline over time.
How often should you replace a body protector?
Do body protectors go out of date?
Body protectors should be replaced at least every three to five years, after which the impact absorption properties of the foam may have started to decline. Garments bearing the now obsolete Level 5 or 7, Class 1, 2 or 3 labels and BETA 2000 Level 1, 2 or 3 will no longer be effective and should be replaced.
How often should you replace body protector?
What size back protector do I need?
Back Protector Size Chart
| SIZE (In) | WAIST TO SHOULDER LENGTH | APPROXIMATE BODY HEIGHT |
|---|---|---|
| S | 13 ½” – 15 ½” | 3’11” – 5’3″ |
| M | 15 ½” – 17″ | 5’3″ – 5’7” |
| L | 17″ – 18″ | 5’7” – 5’10” |
| XL | 18″ – 20″ | 5’10” – 6’7″ |
Should you wear a body protector when jumping?
Wearing a protector is currently only obligatory for eventing. Nevertheless, even dressage, show jumping and leisure riders should be aware of the risks involved in riding. Wearing body protectors and back protectors when riding can reduce the risk of serious injuries to the torso.