Body protectors for horse riding provide an extra level of protection in the event that you fall from your horse. Usually associated with the sport of Eventing, body protectors provide additional protection against potential injury from either falling on an object or being stepped on by the horse should the horse and rider be parted.

The use of helmets has grown a great deal in recent years through education and rules applied by riding clubs and at competitions. It’s been firmly established that the use of a helmet greatly reduces the risk of serious brain injury and even death when a rider falls from a horse. However, little attention has been given to the rest of the rider’s body which is particularly vulnerable should a fall occur.

The purpose of the body protector is to provide additional protection to other areas of the body such as the chest, spine, back and internal organs from trauma. Of course it won’t prevent all injuries, but the goal is to minimize serious injury that could potentially kill or permanently disable the rider.

Not all body protectors for horse riding are created equal and some are rated for higher protection than others. This is based on color-coding with black being the minimum amount of protection required and is often used by jockeys. The second level of protection is brown and is considered to be suitable for average activities on a well-trained horse such as a trail ride on dirt. The highest level of protection, purple, is designed with the serious equestrian in mind. This high level of protection is made with jumping and other competitive sports in mind.

Regardless of the level of protection you choose, the body protector should fit appropriately and be worn in a snug fashion without being too tight or causing discomfort. When riding a horse, you still need relative freedom of movement and a well-constructed body protector should provide protection without limiting movement of your arms and shoulders.

Children are particularly vulnerable while on horseback because of undeveloped balance and leg strength. This is why it’s even more important for children learning to ride to wear a body protector as well as an ATSM certified helmet. Horse riding should be safe as well as fun and body protectors for horse riding give parents added assurance for their child’s safety.

Although riding a horse can be a risky activity, being prepared for the unexpected is key to riding safely. By using body protectors for horse riding and a qualified helmet, you can enjoy the ride knowing your doing it as safely as possible.