Body Protectors

[katie1]

I am switching schools and my new instructor requires body protectors at all times while mounted. I have never worn one before. Are the comfortable? They look rather bulky. Does anyones barn also require this? Seems a bit overboard. Perhaps someone could recomend a good lightweight vest. Thanks for any info.

Katie

[doris]

They can be uncomfortable to start with, but you do get used to riding in them, and they do mould themselves a bit to your body with a bit of wear! Unfortunately, if you are woman shaped with boobs, they tend to flatten you out a bit.
I can't recommend any specific one, but do go to a proper saddlery that can fit one for you as this is most important

[katie1]

I was considering borrowing one from a friend of mine to use during my 2 lessons a week. Is this o.k. to do, or does it need to be a custom fit? We are somewhat close in size.

[Skib]

It definitely needs to fit you properly.
The brands you have in the USA are different from the ones we have here in the UK but there have been previous threads on New Rider for which you can search.
But the important thing is the fit for your body shape and size. Brands vary so one cant simply chose the brand one would like, particularly if one is between sizes. The UK brand I would like to have does not fit me.

[katie1]

o.k. so borrowing one is out. How are they to be worn? Should it be worn under or over a coat? Or should you not wear a coat at all. Just wondering what to wear when I go get fitted for one.

[xxxkristinaxxx]

You could borrow one from a friend as long as it fits you properly.

You will not want one which is too long in the back as it will interfere with your riding and be VERY uncomfortable.

I usually wear it under my coat, so its closer to my body if i did have an accident.

[katie1]

Great Thanks. Would any of you recomend one over another. There are so many. Are some safer than others. I figure if I have to wear one, I might as well get the safest.

[Horsesaddle]

i don't think borrowing one from your mate would be a good idea

but i think a racesafe one would be a good idea

[Rojeth]

I dont know of the types over in the states, but over here there are 3 safety labels. the first isnt suitable for riding in, the second is only for jockeys, and the third is for general riding. i think that has a purple tag, and is a beta level 3. i would guess the safety tags in the states are different as i think the beta tests are european.

I have a Rodney Powell BP, and can wear it either over or under a coat. most are adjustable and elasticated. if you are doing jumping, i recommend a zip-up one, since the side velcro ones often come undone when you fold to jump, then they flap and spook the horse.

[Ross]

The side velcro ones shouldn't come undone, especially if you wear them under your coat/sweatshirt/whatever. I did have mine come undone once, when I was being lazy and threw it on on top of my sweatshirt (which was a bad thing to be doing anyway as it was fitted to go underneath!) and then clonked it on the saddle as I got off and nearly throttled myself!

The racesafe ones are really nice, as they have more panels than most, so are more flexible. they also customise them - one of my friends had one made a couple of inches shorter - now she can breathe during the cross country, which is quite handy for her :D

Ross

[raingodz]

I wear one, I have an Eclypse Eventair, it is quite solid when you put it on, but as it warms up it molds to your body shape and becomes more comfey. If I had the money I'd get a Champion Cobra.

[Fancy_mover23]

I only use one when jumping cross country, because , of course, it's more dangerous. They are kind of uncomfortable when you start wearing hem, but after a few rides they do mold to you, and are alot more comfy. I think they are a good idea.

[funkyfilly_sos]

My RS doesn't say I have to wear one but they prefer for me to do so. I just dont want to take any risks so I (well....my parents) bought one. They are rather uncomfortable to start with, but after I while you hardly notice them on. They should really definitely be worn when jumping and hacking out.

I wear mine under a coat if it is cold or without a coat if it is warm (with a T-shirt underneath).

Also, I wouldn't borrow one off a friend, it needs to be fitted properly. They arent usually as expensive or as bulky nowadays..... I think!

xxxKellyxxx