Why it is necessary to have a safety vest for riding
It is never completely safe to get up on a horse and start to ride. It is with the equestrian sport as it is with all other sports; there is a risk of getting hurt. Therefore, it is necessary to take the proper precautions to prevent accidents or injuries. It is always a good idea to wear a safety vest, when you ride - this provides protection if you have an unlucky fall.
The safety vests for riding comes in a variety of models, and there is for sure one that will match your needs too
The safety has to be on point
It is a necessity that the safety is on point when riding. A safety vest for riding protects your back if you fall and is a recommended pieces of safety equipment for any rider. To be as safe as possible, you should, of course, also always wear a helmet, long trousers, safety shoes and safety stirrups. It is impossible to tell, if an accident will happen, and though far most rides go well, it is better to be safe than sorry.
The trust in the horse is not enough
No matter the level of trust you have in your horse, it is not enough to prevent accident and injuries. The horse can stumble and fall, or it can spook and jump to the side or run off in a way that makes it impossible for you to stay on.
The helmet is worn by everyone, and many riding clubs and yards have rules and regulation regarding - you are simply not allowed to ride without it. However, we do not have the same rules regarding the safety vest, and therefore not the same willingness to be wearing one, but it is a big deal, and it is important that your back is protected when you ride.
Safety vests for beginners
The likelihood of losing balance and falling off is greater, when you are less experienced. In most cases, the beginners are kids, and to increase their safety, you could consider demanding that they will use a safety vest in the same manner as they use the helmet.
No matter if the horse’s a schooling masters or not, it is always a good idea to wear a safety vest and other safety equipment as well
A safety vest for riding makes a difference only when it is being worn
It is not enough to have a safety vest lying in a locker somewhere at the stables. If you want to increase your safety, you need to wear it. A safety vest can prevent back injuries, and it will support your upper body whether you fall of or take a hit to the back. Again, it has no use if it is not being worn, though, so a good habit could be to put it on with the rest of your riding wear - before you even leave your home to go to the stables. In this way, you won’t forget to put it on before the ride.
Improve your posture with a safety vest
A safety vest is first and foremost designed to protect your back, chest and ribcage, if you are to fall of your horse. It has another relevant advantage, also. The safety vest will actively improve your posture on the horse, because it keeps your back straight. This is something many riders struggle with - there are so many things to concentrate on, while riding.
Instead of collapsing in the back due to non-consideration or just plain fatigue, you can wear a safety vest an instantly improve your posture.
Which safety vest to choose
A safety vest should be as discreet as possible and at the same time give a maximized protection. The design, the construction and the functionality are therefore all of importance, when you are to choose the right safety vest.
A safety vest made out of slats is the popular choice due to its adjustability and flexibility. It is comfortable to wear, and it can easily fit under at shirt, jacket or jersey. Furthermore, is is allowed in all disciplines.
Ventilation
A safety vest for riding needs to have some of the same qualities as your other riding wear. Therefore, ventilation and breathability are a necessity in safety vests as well. The safety vest needs to provide protection where it is needed, and breathability also - the comfort is important, and it is not comfortable to be sweating before getting wet and cold.
Size and fit
For the safety vest to work as promised, it is important that the size it just right. If the vest is too small, it will be uncomfortable and restrictive, and if it is too big, it will not protect your body as intended. The right size allows you to move freely without any contact between the vest and the saddle. There cannot be any restrictions in you forward movement - you should be able to lean forward with no resistance from the vest.
To make sure that you have the perfect size and fit, you should always try the safety vest before purchase.
Do not compromise when it comes to safety
There are places, you can compromise a little bit with you riding wear, but the safety equipment is not that.
If your safety equipment is of a wrong size or fit, or just not of a high enough quality, it will not be able to provide you with the intended protection in case of an accident. No matter the prize, you should always look for quality, safety, materials and size before the prize. Besides, you want a vest that is durable and can last for a long time - it can be viewed as an investment. Be aware that safety equipment should not be bought secondhand - wear and tear reduces the safety functions.