not for the goose, only for the goslings
I never wear mine but insist that my children wear theirs (and their helmets) the minute they enter the stable. I'm not so concerned about falls, but am worried about hoof blows to spleen and liver - though all this interesting information about increased fall injury, especially from lack of mobility, IS giving me pause. My main concern is related to kicks on the ground and hoof impact during falls. (I'd love to know if anyone has info on the latter - how common is it for people to be struck by hooves during falls?)
In terms of fall injuries, I realize that it's more than a little silly to demand that my son wear his protector when he has all of, uh, 40" to tumble from the Shetland he rides! But I'm a paranoid mother. I also insist on Peacocks though I'm not entirely convinced they work. (Now, being dragged IS a serious fear of mine and I'd appreciate any opinions on how to avoid or reduce this kind of event. I almost always ride without stirrups, even for rising trot, unless told to do otherwise in lessons.)
An interesting phenomenon has occurred around our stable concerning body protectors. Where a couple of months ago my kids were ridiculed mercilessly by other young riders for being "overly" protected, now every single one of those taunters is wearing a body protector. In this case, it's a parent-driven fashion. But it offers an interesting insight into how marketing trends arise, and it supports Wally's opinion about band-wagoning.