#WHITAKERWORLD

Horse riding safety and effective body protection

Whether you’re involved in eventing, hacking, or are a general riding enthusiast, consideration should always be given to your body protection. In fact, many competition organisers state it is compulsory for a body protector to be worn.  This will help minimise any serious injuries that you sustain from a fall and hopefully make you feel more confident and comfortable in your saddle.  With more modern, flexible and lightweight designs now readily available, body protectors are not only quick and easy to put on, they look great!
Body protection is designed to absorb the impact of a fall from your horse.  They are compulsory wear for many events.

A good fit is the key to comfort and safety

No one wants to wear a garment that is going to restrict their movement, particularly in high level equestrian sport.

Most equestrian suppliers will help you choose a protector that is a good fit for you and your body shape.  This is the key to comfort and safety while riding.  If you’re not sure if your body protector does fit you well, don’t buy until you have asked for help. It’s better to be sure of the fit, than to guess.

If you’re buying online, you can still speak to your supplier before you make a purchase.  And, of course, if it doesn’t fit, check that you can return it.

Body protectors should be replaced every 3 to 5 years

If you do have a fall, we recommend that you check your body protector immediately for any dents. The foam will immediately expand back into its original shape, but it is quite likely that this part of your protector will have lost is impact absorption properties and should be replaced before further use.

Taking care of your body protector and making sure it remains intact will ensure that it enjoys the lifespan indicated. 

When you’re not using your body protector, we recommend that it is hung on a hanger and remains zipped to maintain it’s shape. Keep velcro fastened too as it can become clogged with horse hair and hay!

Most body protectors are made from heat sensitive PVC nitrile foam.  Whilst it might feel a little tight at first, it will soften and mould to your shape quite quickly.  Try not to store it in a warm place, so that it remains flexible particularly for early morning rides.

Different levels of protection

The BETA 2009 Body Protector Standard meets all the requirements of the European standard (EN 13158:2009). A revised edition of the BETA 2000 standard was published and adopted by BETA in April 2009 as the new BETA 2009 standard.

The standard confirms that protectors should be colour labelled according to the level of protection they provide, ie: black, brown and purple.  Visit the BETA website, to find out which one is right for your riding discipline. Visit: http://www.beta-uk.org/pages/safety-equipment/body-protectors.php

Different types of body protector

Body or back protectors are worn over your riding clothes, but under your jacket. They come in a variety of colours, designs and even lengths, so have a good look at what’s available.

As with most riding gear, they come in a variety of sizes, often with length variations so you will need to measure up.  You will need to measure your chest, waist and the shoulder areas before you buy.  Your equine supplier can help you with this.  Sizes can vary between manufacturers, so be aware of this.

Avoid second hand protectors as their ongoing performance cannot be guaranteed. 

When you buy your protector you need to be sure that it’s going to do its job. If you buy from a friend, second hand etc, you cannot be sure it has been previously damaged.  It is best, therefore, to invest in a new protector so that you can be sure of maximum and ongoing protection and safety.

John Whitaker and the Whitaker family are well known in the equine industry, particularly within the show jumping circuit.  The exclusive Whitaker brand of equestrian clothing and products, including Brogini riding boots, are available through John Whitaker International (JWI).  Combining superior quality with exceptional performance,  the Whitaker brand has earned the respect of both amateur and professional riders across the globe.