What are the advantages of an airbag vest over a protective vest?

The biggest advantage of an airbag vest over a level 3 protective vest is the ability to move freely. The airbag vest can be worn like a normal riding vest and therefore does not restrict the movement of the upper body. The Helite airbag vests Zip in 2 can, for example, also be zipped into a matching tournament jacket or worn without an upper vest.

In addition to freedom of movement, protection is of course particularly important. Airbag vests inflate in seconds and protect you in the event of an impact with bulging air cushions. These reduce the forces acting on the body by a multiple. In addition to the spine and chest, the neck, rump and pelvis are better protected compared to conventional protectors.

What are the disadvantages of an airbag vest?

Airbag vests are comparatively expensive to buy. At first this can be a deterrent. In addition, the zip cord of the airbag vest must be released manually from the saddle before dismounting. If you forget this, the vest can be triggered and you have wasted a cartridge. You should also handle your airbag vest with care so that you do not accidentally make holes in the material that impair its function.

Unfortunately, airbag vests are not yet officially approved as equipment in tests. Therefore, you still have to use a level 3 vest in off-road tests. Many cross-country riders in difficult tests also wear an airbag vest over their level 3 vest.

How do airbag vests work?

After getting on, the airbag vest is connected to the saddle with a rip cord. If the rider falls, the rip cord is stretched and the mechanism of the cartridge is released. The gas it contains now flows into the chambers of the airbag vest in a fraction of a second. This protects the rider from the force of the impact. A few minutes after inflation, the airbag vest slowly releases the air and the triggered cartridge can be exchanged for a new one. In case of doubt, you should always have a replacement cartridge with you or at least close by so that you can immediately make the vest ready for use again.

Is it worth buying an airbag vest for me?

The purchase is definitely worthwhile if you ride many cross-country jumps or complete high and difficult jumping courses. Acquiring young horses certainly makes sense as they can still be very jumpy and unpredictable. In dressage, an airbag vest is advantageous because you can move much better with it than with a level 3 safety vest.

Isn't the trigger terribly loud and frightening my horse?

The deployment of the airbag vest is not silent. The volume can be compared to a strong clap of hands. So it's not quite as loud as you would think. Throwing poles when jumping can be significantly louder. Whether your horse is frightened by the noise depends of course on how scared it is. Some horses are already on the watch out for small noises, others are not interested in a tractor pushing manure right next to them. If you are unsure about your horse, use a cartridge and let the vest deploy in a safe environment. This will give you a better idea of ​​your horse's reaction.