Air Vests for Equestrians: Safety, Benefits & Buying Guide
Riding is full of joy, but even the best rides come with risk. That’s where air vests come in. These wearable safety devices are becoming more common in the saddle, offering riders extra protection in case of a fall. Here’s what they are, why they matter, and how to choose the right one.
Riding horses is wonderful, but let’s face it: falls do happen. Air vests (or equestrian “airbag” vests/jackets) are becoming more common gear for riders who want extra protection — especially in disciplines like eventing, cross-country, and also in the hunter/jumper world. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is an Air Vest?
An air vest is a wearable safety device that inflates rapidly when activated, forming a cushion around the torso (and often neck / spine) to help reduce injury in a fall. Typically, a lanyard tethered to the saddle is used; if the rider is ejected, the lanyard pulls, puncturing or triggering a cartridge or mechanism that inflates the vest. Some newer designs also integrate air-vest compatible show coats or hybrid systems.
Key Safety Tips
- Make sure the vest is certified (look for standards like NF S72-800 in Europe, or other recognized equestrian safety/airbag standards).
- Ensure correct fit: the vest should cover your spine, ribs, important organs. It should not restrict movement in a way that could cause more harm.
- Replace the air/gas cartridge immediately after any deployment. Even a partial deployment or a fall that may seem minor could compromise safety.
- Inspect the vest regularly (seams, fabric, gas systems).
- Use in conjunction with other safety equipment: helmet, (if required) a body protector under or over depending on the vest design, appropriate boots, etc.
Why They’re Good to Wear
- Additional Protection for Vital Areas: They help guard ribs, spine, neck, internal organs — especially from compression or crushing if horse or rider lands awkwardly.
- Reduced Injury Severity: In some trials, measures like chest compression and risk of severe chest injury were reduced when air vests are used.
- Growing Acceptance & Better Designs: More comfort, better materials (lighter, more breathable), designs that can be concealed under show jackets or zipped in. Riders report more confidence.
Popular Brands & Price Info
Here are several air vests / airbag models, with approximate US prices and features, to give you a sense of what’s out there. Prices fluctuate, so check current sources.
*Prices as of latest listings in U.S. retailers; taxes/shipping may add to cost.
What To Consider When Choosing One
- Certification / Safety Standards: Make sure the vest is certified for equestrian use.
- Coverage Area: Does it protect the neck, spine, tailbone, ribs? How much of the torso?
- Deployment Speed: Faster inflation = better protection, but design needs to be safe and reliable.
- Fit & Comfort: You’ll be more likely to actually wear it if it’s comfortable and allows freedom of movement.
- Visibility vs Discretion: If you compete, you may want something you can wear under a show coat or zip into show attire.
- Maintenance & Replacements: Cost of replacement gas/cartridge, ease of resetting after a fall, durability of materials, warranty/repair service.
Downsides & What To Be Aware Of
- If inflation is late (due to mis-set lanyard, wrong fit, slow trigger), protection may be sub-optimal.
- Some riders report discomfort, bulkiness, restricted motion, or noise / alarm to the horse when the vest inflates.
- Cost is high; ongoing cost of cartridges or maintenance.
- Not a panacea: an air vest helps, but doesn’t eliminate risk. Good riding practices, well-trained horses, safe schooling environments, proper gear, etc., still matter a lot.
Bottom Line
If you ride seriously, especially in settings or disciplines where falls are more likely or more dangerous, an air vest is a strong consideration. Keep in mind though that falls can and do happen in any discipline, at any level, at any gait. It is a huge misconception to think that you do not need extra protection because you do not jump or do not ride at fast speeds. The extra protection can make the difference between a minor injury and something much worse. That said, picking the right vest (fit, coverage, certification, comfort) is essential, as is using it correctly and maintaining it.
Sources
Horse Tack & Supplies | Equestrian Shop - The Farm House – Farm House Tack