Horse Serious

Most equestrians are familiar and comfortable with a helmet, but it’s not just your head that needs protecting. Airbag vests are becoming more popular and even mandatory for certain events. Here is your guide to safety vests. 

These airbag safety vests are making appearances not only in cross-country courses but also in the show ring. They significantly reduce the risk of serious injury and help us enjoy the sport in comfort. Self-inflating air vests, just like all safety gear, are only effective when used properly. 

How Do Airbag vests work?

While there are several manufactures of air vests, Helite is one of the most well known and trusted for their equipment. Not only do they offer safety vests for equestrians but also for motorcycles and bicyclists. Their airbag system comes with a mechanical detection system that uses a lanyard, a saddle strap and CO2 cartridges. 

To activate the system, the rider hooks the lanyard in the saddle strap. In the case of a fall or accident, the lanyard will unhook and the CO2 cartridge deploys the airbag in less than 100 milliseconds. The air vest then absorbs the impact and stabilizes the body from head to tailbone. Once the airbag vest inflates, the system can be reused and reset in less than 2 minutes. All that needs to be changed is the CO2 cartridge. 

The Difference Between Safety Air Vests & Traditional Vests 

Many riders are familiar with traditional vests or body protectors. Some events require a safety vest of somesort in order to compete. How can you choose which is better for you, an air vest or a traditional vest? 

Traditional Vests 

Traditional body protectors or often made from foam that helps disperse the impact of a fall. They help reduce injuries and protect the abdomen, chest, inner organs as well as ribs. These vests have been used in cross-country riding for many years. However, these vests do not offer spinal protection or injuries that involve severe torsion, flexion or extension. 

Airbag Vests 

Helite airbag vests offer complete protection of the spine, internal organs, hips, abdomen and ribs. When deployed, they compress in order for better resistance to hyper-extension. Additionally, they help stabilize the head and neck. These vests are specifically designed to reduce the impact of hitting the ground.

It is important to note that in some disciplines, like cross-country, an airbag vest isn’t meant to replace the body protector. In events like cross-country a body protector must still be worn either in combination with an airbag vest or on its own. 

Care & Maintenance Of Your Airbag Vest

Depending on the model or manufacturer of your airbag vest, there will be different maintenance protocols. With Helite’s Zip’In Airbags do not require machine washing. To clean these vests, rub with a soft cloth and soapy water or baby wipes. Do not machine dry it either, simply let it air dry. 

To keep your Helite airbag vest in good condition, keep it in a safe area like with your show jackets or other riding gear. Ideally, hung up in a cool, dry area. Additionally, CO2 cartridges that are nearly depleted need to be disposed of properly and not with common household waste. Helite offers a recycling program where you can send used or expired cartridges. 

Should You Wear A Safety Vest? 

Airbag technology isn’t as new as some may suggest. For example, Helite has over 20 years experience in the airbag safety business. Many riders attest to the benefits of wearing their airbag vests and we will continue to see them in eventing. If you are curious about riding with an air vest, do your research and find a company that is trusted.