Western Saddle? body protector?

[JoKim]

I'm doing a long trail ride - 35km a day for 7 days in the alps, but it is Western riding, which I've never done before!

Can anyone advise on body protectors - I always wear one, although I've never fallen off in 20-something years of riding. Someone said you can't wear one with a Western saddle, but I don't want my first fall to be unprotected. Neither do I want to lug it all the way there and not use it!

thanks!

 

[Jumperbabe]

I can't imagine any reason why you couldn't wear a body protector in a Western saddle. It's not that different from an English saddle, just make sure your BP fits correctly and isn't too long in the back. Your trip sounds amazing, have fun!

 

[Skib]

I always take my bp to the USA and wear it trail riding there.
I've ridden Western in a Champion Cobra and in my current airwear Zippa. Here is OH in his. Mine is hidden under my jacket.

A problem could arise in a Western saddle, if your bp is too long at the back. My impression is that early body protectors were worn longer than modern ones, and that many bps sold to women were too long for them. You need the correct clearance.

 

[JoKim]

thanks for this advice!!