Learn about the best body protectors for horse riding: What they are, how they work, and which are worth wearing.
Wearing a quality helmet is the #1 way to stay safe horse riding. But, there are additional steps you can take to increase your (or your loved ones) likelihood of walking away from a fall. Body protectors are one of the best options to prevent injury.
Here are 6 of the best horse riding body protectors on the market:
| Body Protector | Type | Description |
| Tipperary Eventer Vest | Foam | Tipperary’s middle ground offering. Lightweight and comfortable, but still appropriate for more advanced riders. Not certified. |
| Tipperary Eventer Pro Vest
| Foam | Tipperary’s high-end option. A little bulkier than their other vests, but offers more protection and carries safety certifications. On the pricier side. |
| Tipperary Ride-Lite Multi-Discipline Safety Vest | Foam | Inexpensive entry level foam option that is suitable for beginners, casual riders, and flatwork. |
| Ovation Air Tech Vest | Air | Affordable air vest option providing extended coverage. No certifications available and a newer offering on the market. |
| Hit Air LV Equestrian Light Weight Airbag Vest | Air | A pricier option, but a reputable option that is well liked in the equestrian community. Provides extended coverage and is very lightweight. |
| Intrepid International Kid’s Safety Supraflex Vest Protector | Foam | Affordable, safety certified option. Maybe less comfortable than Tipperary options and tends to run small. |
Thanks to Sarah Harris for our feature photo!
A Quick Note About Safety Standards & Fit
There is no required testing for a riding body protector. There are, however, multiple certifications that companies may opt to seek.
In order to market their products as “certified,” the manufacturer must prove that they meet certain quality and safety standards. Three common ones worth watching out for are EN 13158:2009, BETA:2009 and ASTM F2681.
While an uncertified is not necessarily less safe, purchasing a certified version ensures that you are getting a quality item that will help keep you safe.*
*Air vests (vs. foam) do not undergo traditional types of testing, as they are not designed to function in the same way as static body protectors.
Any time you are buying safety equipment for riding, fit is also incredibly important. Comfort is another factor to consider when purchasing. If your equipment isn’t comfortable or doesn’t fit well over or under riding clothes, there’s a high chance it won’t get used.
Be sure to visit our Frequently Asked Questions at the end, too!
Tipperary Eventer Vest
This vest comes in a variety of colors and is available in both youth and adult sizes.
Click to see it on Amazon
PROS:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Multiple ways to adjust for a better fit
- High-quality materials
CONS:
- Finding the appropriate size can be a challenge
- Not ASTM/SEI certified
Read Customer Reviews on Amazon
Tipperary Eventer Pro Vest
Click to see it on Amazon
PROS:
- ASTM and SEI Certified
- Antimicrobial fabric prevents smells
- One of the most breathable options
- Also available in a youth size
CONS:
- More expensive than the non-certified version
- Heavier than some options, but still lightweight
Read Customer Reviews on Amazon
Tipperary Ride-Lite Multi-Discipline Safety Vest
The Ride-Lite version of Tipperary’s body protectors is their affordable, lightweight option.
While it isn’t enough protection for a more advanced rider, this is an excellent choice for someone who only rides occasionally on a trusted horse.
Click to see it on State Line Tack
PROS:
- Very lightweight
- Affordable
- Suitable for beginners and casual riders
CONS:
- Not suitable for advanced riders
- Less protection than other options
- Velcro closures that can wear out quickly
- Not ASTM/SEI certified
Read Customer Reviews on State Line Tack
Ovation Air Tech Vest
Air vests are lightweight and offer more coverage than foam alternatives. The Ovation Air Tech vest is an affordable option that is available in both youth and adult sizes.
Click to see it on State Line Tack
PROS:
- Lightweight
- Does not the restrict range of motion of the individual
- More coverage during falls
- Affordable air vest option
CONS:
- Will not protect against kicks
- Cannot be tested for certification like foam alternatives
Read Customer Reviews on State Line Tack
Hit Air LV Equestrian Light Weight Airbag Vest
While it is on the pricier side, it is a reputable product that offers a great deal of coverage and has adjustable fastenings to fit a range of sizes
Click to see it on Amazon
Chief Rookie Aside: Read our detailed Hit-Air Equestrian Vest review.
PROS:
- Lightweight
- Does not the restrict range of motion of the individual
- More coverage during falls
- One size fits all
CONS:
- Will not protect against kicks
- Cannot be tested for certification like foam alternatives
- Expensive
Read Customer Reviews on Amazon
Intrepid International Kid’s Safety Supraflex Vest Protector
It’s considered a Level 3 vest, meaning it will protect against falls that may have caused bruising or some rib cage damage (ie. more ).
Click to see it on Amazon
PROS:
- Affordable
- BSI Level 3 Certified
CONS:
- Run small
Read Customer Reviews on Amazon
Horse Riding Safety Vests Infographic
You’re welcome to use this infographic on your own website *as long as you link back to horse-rookie.local.*
Feel free to share on Pinterest, as well by hovering over it and clicking the Pinterest icon. #knowledgeishorsepower
Learn about the differences between body protectors and air vests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a horse riding body protector?
Body protectors cover a majority of the rider’s torso and are specially designed to absorb the impact to protect your vital organs and ribs against falls and hooves.
They are lightweight and designed with the range of motion used in riding in mind to allow riders to move comfortably, while staying as safe as possible.
How often should a body protector be replaced?
At least every three to five years, even if no visible damage has occurred. After any major fall, you should examine the body protector for indentations.
It’s normal for the foam to compress during a fall or kick, but if after 30-60 minutes, you can still see dents or compressed areas, the foam is no longer usable and it needs to be replaced.
Remember, technology and design are always advancing. So it’s likely that every five years, you may find an upgrade of your existing vest has become available.
How do you choose a body protector?
The two most important things to consider are quality and fit. For the most part, the more you spend, the higher quality and better protection you will get. However, an ill-fitting vest is never a good choice.
You’ll want to find something that fits well, meaning your ribs are completely covered and the bottom allows enough room that the saddle does not push the body protector up on your neck or off your shoulders.
Choosing a manufacturer with a safety certification is always a wise choice.
Body protector vs. air vest: What’s the difference?
A standard body protector uses foam that compresses under pressure, protecting your body from impact.
An air vest is like an airbag for your body. It connects to the saddle with a cord. If the rider falls off, the cord is disconnected, triggering the inflation of the vest.
These vests offer more coverage than a foam body protector and expand up the neck and down the hips, providing additional protection for your neck, spine, and pelvis.
Should I wear a body protector when riding?
While not all riders wear them, body protectors do tend to keep you safer when you ride. You should always wear one when dealing with less predictable horses or riding situations.
When learning a new, difficult skill or performing at a high level, the extra padding is a great way to avoid too much extra risk. They are also an important piece of safety equipment when training horses.
However, even a predictable horse can be spooked or react unexpectedly, so everyone, especially children, can benefit from wearing them even with trustworthy horses.
What’s the best body protector for a child?
Many body protectors come in youth sizes. Determine the level of protection you need, the type of riding your child will be doing, and your budget. Make sure whatever you choose fits your child well.
What is the best cheap body protectors for horse riding?
For a certified option, Intrepid International Kid’s Safety Supraflex Vest Protector is affordably priced.
While not certified, the Tipperary Ride-Lite is a popular choice for casual riders who don’t need as much protection as eventers might and is known for being comfortable for most people.
How to fall off a horse properly?
Believe it or not, there’s a correct way to fall off a horse. Never splay your hands out in front of you to break your fall (you’re more likely to break one or both wrists). Keep your head tucked down (think chin to chest).
While not everyone has an option to aim, if you can, aim to land on the back of your shoulder. This gives you the widest landing space and may even let you roll to lessen the impact.
Most importantly, don’t tense up. Fold your arms across your chest and stay relaxed. This will help your muscles absorb the shock of the impact better.
What does falling off a horse teach you?
Falling off a horse teaches you how to make the best of an imperfect situation. No one wants to fall, but at some point, you will. It can quicken your reflexes and help you learn to respond calmly under pressure.
Falling off also teaches you the importance of not giving up. As any good trainer will say, it’s important to get right back on as soon as you fall. Falling off teaches you that failure isn’t the end, it’s just another brick in the road.
Finally, falling off teaches you how unpleasant falling is. It will inspire you to be a stronger, better rider to avoid more falls in the future. Also, vests are invaluable!
Protect & Defend (Yourself!)
Ultimately, choosing the perfect safety vest is a personal decision. You’ll need to consider your riding style and level, budget, risk aversion, and even the weather you’ll be riding in.
Whatever you choose, wearing a safety vest consistently can make you safer and prevent avoidable injuries that might keep you out of the saddle.
P.S. Enjoy this article? Trot on over to:
- Hit-Air Equestrian Vest Review: My Favorite Fall in 30 Years
- How Do Safety Stirrups Work?
- Sit Tall & Kick On (Equestorian Back Brace Rider Review)
- 5 Best Horse Riding Back Braces, Protectors & Posture Correctors
- 9 Best Helmets for Eventing to Stay Safe and Stand Out
- 7 Best Safety Stirrups for Adults (Uses, Features, Reviews)
- How Often to Replace a Horse Riding Helmet
- How to Overcome Fear After a Fall
