“You’ve only got one life and one head – and you can’t really put a price on that.”

This was Laura Collett’s take on rider protection, shared in a discussion at the first British Equestrian Trade Association safety conference on 21 April.

The European champion, Olympic gold medallist and five-star winner, who is sponsored by Uvex helmets and Racesafe body protectors, gave “an eventer’s perspective on safety” during the conference, the aim of which was to reduce risks to help make riding safer.

Laura suffered serious injuries in a rotational fall in 2013; she was asked whether this had changed her perspective on safety equipment.

“I think I’ve always been very pro safety,” she said. “After I had the bad fall, I was just very grateful I was already slightly a step ahead. I was wearing the air jacket on top of a good body protector, and was told by doctors at the time that they thought the air jacket did save my life.

“The horse landed directly on top of me and I did have a few injuries but all things considered, when you hit the ground and have a horse land on top of you, the fact I was able to walk away from that without any hugely significant injuries meant I was very grateful for all the equipment I had on. I’ve not changed my thought process from that day, other than I continue to be grateful and continue to try to wear the very best there is around.”

Laura said that before that incident, she had been “very, very lucky” and had not even broken a bone in a fall.

“You do slightly think ‘It won’t happen to me’ but at the same time you know you’re riding an animal with its own brain and we gallop towards solid fences,” she said. “The reality is that accidents can happen, and freak accidents can happen; it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re riding a ‘bad’ horse.”

Laura said the fall made her slightly change her mindset in the horses she rides, but that this will not prevent all falls or accidents.

“The very best horse can make a mistake and you don’t know when it’s going to happen,” she said. “It’s not like you can just say ‘I’m going to wear a body protector at the big events’ or anything.

“Years ago, you saw a lot of people riding without hats; there seemed to be a perception that it was cool. I personally never thought it was cool to ride without a hat, because the horse can spook or trip or anything can happen, and you can fall off. Even if you’re the best rider in the world.

“It’s often a case of how you fall too; you see other people, and I’ve had falls myself, that look very dramatic but you get up and walk away, no bother. You see another one that you think looks insignificant but just the way the person falls, they can have a worse outcome.”

Laura said she wears the same protective equipment at home as for competitions; the same cross-country helmet and body protector with built-in air jacket.

Improved design

She said design has improved; a body protector with an air vet on top could feel too bulky but from her perspective, her gear has no impact on her riding.

“I have full faith in the products I use, and I have very much tested them over the years!” she said. “And I’m very grateful they’ve stood up to the test.”

Laura said the improvement in technology means protectors and helmets are more comfortable now. And although she said this does not bother her, there are some who may not have worn them before owing to their appearance.

“You can have whatever colour air jacket you want now,” she said. “All those things I think make it so people can’t come up with excuses for not wearing them. I’m sure some people still do! But I think if they were honest with themselves and tried them, they’d realise they don’t really have a leg to stand on, saying they’re uncomfortable or they impact them in a negative way.”

Laura considered changes in safety over the years; she was one of those who preferred a top hat for dressage but now would think that “looked wrong”.

“Times do change and people have to accept they’re actually changing for the better,” she said. “It just sometimes takes a little while for people to realise, but I think you look back at old photos, when people were barely wearing a helmet, not attached, and you just think ‘What were they thinking?’”

Laura said her first priority for safety equipment is the standard of protection, then comfort; she advised anyone who may not feel comfortable to try different brands and find what works best for them, stressing the need to have equipment fitted professionally.

Laura Collett on safety equipment

And asked about her view on anyone who might be reluctant to spend large sums of money on safety equipment, she said: “You’ve only got one life.

“At the time, it can seem like a lot of money having to replace the helmet or something that’s broken, but you’d rather spend that money than have another fall with the same helmet, and it be compromised in a way you can’t see. Something will have happened in that fall and you can’t take that chance.

“With head injuries we know it’s often the second that can be a lot worse, even if it’s less impact, so you want to have as much protection as you can and I don’t think that’s something you take lightly. You’ve got one life and one head and you can’t really put a price on that.”

Laura added that were she to speak to her younger self, or a younger rider, she would advise them not to take the risks.

“Don’t try to think you’re cool by not wearing safety equipment,” she said. “A big part would be to always replace the hat. That’s one thing that’s slightly changed for me; even the smallest of falls. If you hit your head, even though you’ve not been concussed, you walked away, still replace the hat.

“When I had my bad fall, my hat had a tiny little crack, and we thought nothing of it. But they took it apart and the difference in the cushioning, the impact it had on the inner shell of the hat that you couldn’t see from the outside, was pretty scary. That hit home for me; the hat can do its job without you realising but it means you need to replace it.

“Everyone who saw my fall was really shocked I didn’t have an injury; I hit the ground and the horse fell on top of me so to come away without a brain injury was pretty impressive, and that’s something you really appreciate. You realise that you can’t be taking chances when it comes to your head.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Best air jackets for the ultimate protection, comfort and performance – options to suit every rider

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Whether you’re schooling at home or galloping across country, one of the best air jackets can make all the difference when things don’t go to plan. Designed to inflate on impact, these high-tech vests offer an extra layer of protection without weighing you down or restricting movement.

If you’re competing cross-country, you’ll need to wear one of the best approved body protectors as standard – an air vest can then be worn over the top for added safety. In dressage and showjumping, air vests can be worn without a body protector, and they’re also gaining popularity in the hunting field for their discreet protection and comfort.

So, whether you’re buying your first air jacket, upgrading to a newer model, or looking for one that fits better over your competition gear, we’ve picked out some of the best options available, plus the key things to know before you buy.

Best air jackets: H&H’s quick guide

Best all-rounder: Helite Zip’In 2 Airbag Vest

Best for custom fit and tech features: Seaver Safefit Airbag Vest

Best value pick: Felix Bühler by Spark Air Vest

Best premium option: EquiAirbag EAB V4 Pro

It attaches to the saddle via a lanyard on the stirrup bar, and if triggered, it’s quick to reset – just swap the CO₂ cartridge, secure the neck flap, and you’re good to go. The adjustable waist belt helps dial in the fit, and while it only comes in black and the cartridge is sold separately, it’s a smart, safety-focused choice for riders who want serious protection without fuss.

The vest inflates rapidly in less than 0.097sec upon activation, providing immediate protection. While it requires the Motion3 body protector for use, the two together provide a truly comprehensive safety solution for all riders. Also available in children’s sizes.

For riders who want smart design and strong safety in one sleek vest, the Vita is a reliable option.

Air jacket safety standards

The most recognised certification for equestrian air vests is NF S72-800:2022, the only official standard created specifically for horse riding airbags. It covers inflation time, impact protection, coverage (neck, spine, chest, pelvis), and reliability. If a vest meets this, it’s been through rigorous, equestrian-focused testing.

You may also see this standard referred to as CE NF S72-800:2022 — the “CE” marking indicates that the product complies with European Union safety directives, while NF S72-800:2022 is the specific airbag testing protocol within that framework. In short: if you see either, it means the vest has passed the most up-to-date and relevant air vest safety testing for equestrian use.

Some vests are also tested to EN 1621-4 (for motorcycle airbags) or EN 1621-2 (for back protectors). These aren’t riding-specific but still confirm a high level of impact absorption, particularly for the spine and torso.

You may also see references to EN 13158:2009, the standard for traditional equestrian body protectors, not air vests. While air jackets don’t typically meet this standard, some brands use it for comparison to show their vest offers similar or better protection.

Lastly, SATRA M38 is a respected test protocol used to assess air vest performance. It’s not an official standard, but it’s run by SATRA – a leading independent testing lab – and is often used to evaluate how well an air jacket reduces impact in simulated riding falls.

Do equestrian airbag vests work?

Yes, when used correctly, the best air jackets are highly effective at reducing the risk and severity of injury during a fall.

They’re designed to inflate in milliseconds when triggered, cushioning vital areas such as the neck, spine, chest, and pelvis. Independent testing has shown that air vests can significantly reduce impact forces, especially to the chest and back – areas commonly injured in riding accidents.

While no vest can prevent all injuries, air jackets are a proven way to add an extra layer of protection for riders across all disciplines.

Are air jackets worth it?

For many riders, yes, the best air jackets are well worth the investment. They offer rapid, targeted protection in the event of a fall, inflating in milliseconds to help reduce the impact on key areas like the spine, chest and pelvis.

While they can be pricey, especially compared to traditional body protectors, many riders value the added peace of mind and freedom of movement they provide. Whether you’re schooling, hacking or competing, an air jacket adds an extra layer of safety that could make a big difference in a serious fall.

Do I need to get an air jacket fitted?

Yes, a proper fit is important to ensure your air jacket works as intended. Ideally get one fitted at your local saddlery and ask them for a demo on how it works too. Most brands offer size guides based on height and chest measurements, but it’s worth trying on different models if possible, especially if you plan to wear it over a body protector or under a show jacket.

A well-fitted air vest should feel snug but not restrictive, and sit close enough to your body for the airbag to deploy effectively. Some models are adjustable or available in long/tall options to help get the right fit.

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British safety brand Racesafe has launched its first lightweight, slimline inflating gilet – the VeloAir air jacket.

“Protection shouldn’t be something you constantly notice – it should simply be there when it’s needed,” said Racesafe managing director James How. “We’ve gone to great lengths to develop an air jacket that meets the Racesafe standard that delivers confidence without compromising comfort, movement or style.”

The VeloAir meets the safety standard for equestrian airbags (NF S72-800:2022) and promises rapid inflation (in 0.095 seconds).

The bespoke airbag pattern has been designed to help maintain a slim, unobtrusive silhouette and a lighter more streamlined fit, while maintaining maximal impact absorption.

Racesafe VeloAir

The VeloAir air jacket comes in black or midnight blue, in young rider or adult sizes, and has an RRP of £355 (young rider) and £425 (adult). It is designed with a water-repellent, wipe-clean fabric that can be worn in all weathers.

Event rider Piggy March said: “I’ve really enjoyed riding in the VeloAir, it’s so subtle and the colour choices match my show jacket really closely.”

Showjumper Chloe Winchester has found it comfortable, breathable and flattering. She said: “I find it fits really well, and I don’t find myself adjusting it throughout the day.”

For more information, visit racesafe.co or visit a Racesafe retailer for a professional fitting.

Are air jackets worth it?

Though more expensive than standard body protectors, many riders consider air jackets to be a worthwhile investment.

They offer rapid, targeted protection in a fall, whether you are schooling, hacking, or competing, inflating in milliseconds to help reduce the impact on key areas, such as the spine, chest and pelvis.

Air jackets can be worn on their own, or over body or back protectors. If you are competing in cross-country under British Eventing rules, it is compulsory to wear a body protector of the appropriate standard, but an air jacket can also be worn over the top.

Do I need to get an air jacket fitted?

Yes, a proper fit is important to ensure your air jacket works as intended. Ideally you should get one fitted at your local equestrian store where they can also demonstrate how it works.

Most brands offer size guides based on height and chest measurements, but it’s worth trying on different models if possible.

If you intend to wear your air jacket over a body or back protector then ensure you take that to your fitting appointment.

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Air jackets vs body protectors: what’s the difference, and which should you wear?

Best air jackets for the ultimate protection, comfort and performance – options to suit every rider

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

An air jacket or body protector can make all the difference in a fall, but knowing how they work and when to wear them is key. They’re often grouped together as rider safety gear, but the protection they offer is very different.

So, which one do you actually need, and when should you wear both? Here’s everything you need to know about choosing between the best air jackets and the best body protectors – or using them together – depending on how and what you ride.

Air jacket vs body protector: What’s the difference?

A body protector is a foam-filled vest designed to absorb impact and reduce blunt trauma in the event of a fall, kick, or collision. It offers constant, passive protection to your back, chest, ribs and internal organs. Once it’s on, it’s ready – no activation needed.

By contrast, an air jacket is an inflatable vest that only deploys when triggered. It’s worn over your clothing (and usually over a body protector) and attaches to the saddle via a lanyard. If the rider is thrown from the saddle, the lanyard pulls a cord which activates a CO₂ canister, inflating the jacket in a fraction of a second. This creates an air cushion around key areas including the spine, neck, pelvis and sometimes the chest.

So while a body protector reduces impact force using dense materials, an air jacket reduces it by creating a pressurised air buffer – but only after a fall is in progress.

Which should you wear – and when?

Body protectors are essential for high-risk riding and mandatory in certain competitions, such as:

• Cross-country (and are mandatory in British Eventing for the cross-country phase, and over solid fences in arena eventing)
• Riding young, green or unpredictable horses
• Schooling in potentially hazardous situations

To meet current competition rules, your body protector must be BETA Level 3 (2018) standard – look for the blue label. Most governing bodies won’t accept older body protector standards (e.g. purple 2009) or lower protection levels. It’s also worth noting that body protectors should be replaced every three to five years, even if they haven’t been involved in a fall.

Air jackets, while offering excellent protection for certain injuries (such as spinal compression or internal bruising), are not a substitute for a BETA-approved body protector in any discipline where one is required, like eventing. They’re an optional, additional layer.

Air jackets are commonly worn by:

• Eventers, over the top of a body protector for cross-country
• Riders schooling or hacking who want extra peace of mind
• Experienced riders working with sensitive or high-level horses
• Riders with previous injury history seeking more upper-body protection

Some air jackets offer additional neck and pelvis protection that body protectors don’t. But remember: they only work if they inflate – and that requires separation from the saddle. In situations where you fall with your horse, or aren’t fully separated, some may not trigger in time.

Pros and cons

Body protectors:

✔ Constant protection – no need to “arm” or trigger

✔ Approved for use in affiliated competitions

✔ Protects torso, ribs and organs from impact and kicks

✔ Offers coverage even in close falls or entanglements

✖ Can feel bulky or warm, especially in hot weather

✖ Some riders find them restrictive, especially to start with

Air jackets:

✔ Lightweight and unobtrusive when not deployed

✔ Inflates to offer neck, spine, chest and pelvis protection

✔ Often more comfortable for long hours in the saddle

✔ Can reduce whiplash-type injuries

✖ Must be worn with a body protector in most competitions

✖ Requires rearming after deployment (usually by replacing the gas canister)

✖ Won’t inflate if the rider isn’t fully separated from the horse

Air jacket vs body protector: How to choose

Choosing the right safety gear depends on the type of riding you’re doing – and whether you’re competing or not.

If your discipline requires a BETA Level 3 body protector, that’s non-negotiable. Air jackets can be worn over the top for additional protection, but they don’t meet the criteria on their own and won’t be accepted in competition without a body protector underneath.

For everyday riding where safety gear is optional, the choice depends on what you’re doing and the level of protection you want. Some riders stick with a body protector for its consistent coverage, others go for the lighter feel of an air jacket, knowing it only activates during a fall, and many choose to wear both. There’s also the option of a back protector for riders who want minimal coverage without the bulk.

Fit is critical, especially if you’re combining an air jacket with a body protector. They need to work together without restricting movement or interfering with inflation. Most brands provide compatibility guidelines, and a professional fitting can make a big difference. If you can, try the gear on while mounted to check that everything moves with you in the saddle, and check that lanyards are properly adjusted.

Body protectors and air jackets offer different types of protection – one constant, one reactive – and together, they cover more scenarios than either can alone. If you’re unsure what’s right for you, a BETA-trained retailer can help you make a smart, safe choice.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

A rider who broke both legs when her horse was spooked by loose dogs, but was more worried about the horse – and her boots – than herself, has paid tribute to the flying paramedics who came to her rescue.

Anne Wooley has been recovering from her injuries and is riding her 17-year-old gelding Ted again. She told H&H she does not know how she would have been rescued without the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) after her fall on a bridleway in February.

Anne, who celebrates her 71st birthday this month, said it was a beautiful morning and she and Ted had enjoyed a canter in the woods, slowing to pass under some overhanging branches.

“We went round a corner and suddenly there were these loose dogs, and a person appeared,” she said. “Ted was taken by surprise; it all happened so quickly. I remember I was coming off, thinking ‘I’ve got my air vest on, I’ll be fine’. But the air vest went off and poor Ted ran back the way we came. I said to this lad ‘Please catch him’ but by then he was coming back – and I knew by then that I couldn’t move. I couldn’t get up.”

Anne managed to call 999 before she lost phone signal, and the YAA critical care team was sent to her aid; doctor Dave Driver and paramedic Matty McCabe.

“The information we had was limited, just that a lady had fallen from a horse and had potentially fractured her leg,” Dr Driver said. “While en route, we received updates that the location was inaccessible by road, so we also deployed our Topcliffe-based helicopter to the scene.”

Anne had also managed to call her husband Kevan, who met them on the edge of the woods, and they followed Ted’s hoofprints to Anne, who was in severe pain. Dr Driver said that they could not rule out internal bleeding as “injuries like this can be so distracting that patients may not realise there’s something else going on”.

Urgent intervention

Paramedics Chris Gibbins and Tammy Williams arrived by helicopter, and the team stabilised Anne’s condition, including “urgent intervention to protect circulation in her lower limbs”.

She was given gas and air, then ketamine, and her legs were secured in a vacuum splint for the journey to hospital.

“She kept asking if someone was looking after her horse,” Dr Driver said. “That was her main concern at the time.”

Anne was flown to Pinderfields Hospital, where scans showed she had fractured both legs. She underwent surgery to plate her right ankle and pin her left leg from ankle to knee, and spent three weeks in hospital before she was allowed home.

“I was more or less bedridden,” she said. “Luckily, I keep Ted at home so my husband could look after him; I was sitting on the sofa, peering out of the window to see what he was doing! Luckily the weather’s been good, but he’s had to put him out, bring him in, do his rugs and hay – I told him how much hay he had to have, and to steam it, and his supplements!”

By about Easter, Anne was back on the yard, and able to look after thoroughbred/cob Ted, whom she had owned for under a year by the time of the accident, and they have since gradually built up the ridden work.

“This wasn’t going to stop me riding again – I’ve already been back on,” she said.

And she can still ride in her boots.

“I just remember telling the paramedics not to cut off my riding boots and that they have zips,” she said. “Any rider would have said the same, I certainly didn’t want to lose them!

“It was such a shock when I fell. I’d landed in such a remote spot, and all I could think was that no one would find me, especially when I lost phone signal. I was so relieved when I saw the YAA team walking up to me. I can’t thank them enough for how kind and professional they were.

“I’ll be for ever grateful to the YAA for getting me the help I needed. I can’t think how I’d have got out of there without them; the more publicity they can get, the better.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Leading doctors, biomechanic specialists and manufacturers are among experts taking a deeper look at whether safety vests – including body protectors and air vests – reduce injury severity.

The FEI has formed a new equestrian safety vest working group, which aims to improve rider safety through scientific research and innovation in protective equipment.

The announcement from the federation said this comes “amid a steady rise in the use of safety vests […] across a wide range of equestrian disciplines, and growing concern about the lack of independent data to support their effectiveness in reducing athlete injuries”.

Chair of the FEI medical committee Mark Hart will also chair the working group. Its first job is to “examine the current state of knowledge around thoracic and spinal injuries in equestrian sport, with a focus on understanding how and when these injuries occur, and whether safety vests play a significant role in reducing the severity of athlete injuries”.

Dr Hart said: “While there is growing support for the use of body protectors and air vests in both sport and recreational riding, there is still minimal data to fully understand their effectiveness.

“We lack critical data on how and what specific injuries occur during falls and how protective equipment performs under real-world conditions.

“Athletes and others in the community are asking important, constructive questions relating to how air vests perform in real-world settings, how they affect the athlete’s movement, and whether their use might influence the horse’s behaviour. These insights are essential and are helping to drive the discussion toward more effective and evidence-based safety solutions.”

He added: “This is why the FEI has tasked the working group with undertaking a comprehensive review of current safety standards and will include developing improved testing protocols that more accurately reflect the realities athletes face in both training and competition environments.”

The group has two arms: a scientific panel and a national federation advisory panel.

The scientific panel includes the British Horseracing Authority’s chief medical advisor, Jerry Hill, and features international experts in biomechanical engineering, injury modelling, medicine and safety vest manufacturing, and international standards bodies.

An FEI spokesperson said the panel has “diverse expertise” in areas of the body most at risk during a fall, such as the head, neck, spine, ribs and chest.

British Equestrian Trade Association executive director Claire Williams is among the experts on the national federation advisory panel. This group’s job is to “support open communication with the wider equestrian community in their regions” and to help co-ordinate additional fundraising for research.

The working group’s aims include collaborating closely with riders, manufacturers, international standards organisations and other sports with similar injury risks, such as racing and motocross.

It is expected to propose modifications or new testing protocols to promote safer design and encourage wider adoption of best practice. It will also make recommendations to the FEI and national federations on how to improve data collection and injury reporting, to better link fall mechanisms with injuries.

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Helite Zip’In 2 Airbag

The discreet and close-fitting Helite Zip’In 2 Airbag is designed so it can be worn alone, or under an approved outer layer. It has a lanyard trigger system that you attach to your saddle via a supplied strap, which slips over the stirrup bars. This provides a D ring in front of the pommel that I could quickly and easily attach the lanyard clip to using one hand, while holding my reins in the other.

The air jacket is activated when you are separated from the saddle by sufficient distance and velocity to extend the elasticated lanyard to its full length, pulling the keyball out of the trigger, which leads the vest to inflate in less 0.1 second.

*Update: 30 April 2023* I have now tested the air vest when parting company with my horse during a jump training session. The vest inflated as expected, and I was able to remount and continue with my jumping lesson after my fall. I felt the air vest protected my torso from bruising when I fell directly on to the jump. I did not feel winded by the air vest activating.

*Update: 31 October 2023* Having fallen off a number of times while wearing this vest, I now don’t ride my horse without it – whether that’s out hacking, schooling at home, jumping or competing – and in all weathers. It gives me extra confidence while in the saddle to know that I have this added protection should the unexpected happen. The cost of having to replace the air cannister (around £20 each time) is enough to encourage me to try my utmost to stay in the saddle, but on the occasions when I’ve passed the point of no return, I do feel less concerned about hitting the deck and have suffered no serious injuries (only wounded pride and the odd bruise!) as a result of my falls.

Starting with the vest on its own, I was impressed with how lightweight and comfortable it was to wear. My previous experience with an airvest has been wearing a body protector and airvest together, so this feels much less restrictive and far lighter by comparison. However, if you are intending to compete in cross-country competitions, you would need to wear an approved body protector, then you can add an airvest over the top for added protection if you wish. For dressage and showjumping competitions, the airvest can be worn without a body protector. Airvests are also becoming a popular option for the hunting field.

The air canister that inflates the airvest when triggered is concealed into the vest on the right-hand side under a zip (shown below) and, although there is a little weight to it (about 150g for the 50cc cannister), once I was wearing the vest, I didn’t notice it.

The vest is fastened with a front zip and has elasticated mesh sides for a neat fit. It is made from a lightweight technical fabric with a breathable mesh lining, containing the inflatable airbags.

I am a UK size 8 and I am testing the XS size, which carries the 50cc canister. Other size vests require different sized canisters. The canisters are the screw-in type. I found it straight forward to replace the canister following the instructions in the user guide. I recommend keeping both the Allen key and a spare canister to hand so you can replace it as needed following an activation.

For the purpose of this review, I have also been supplied with a selection of outer layers to try. Some of these are designed so the airvest and the outer can be quickly and easily integrated into one garment, via the Zip’In system, which makes them both comfortable and very easy to wear.

Helite Airshell Prestige Vest Outer

This gilet is made from a softshell material, which is water repellent and windproof. I am testing the navy gilet with red/white trim, but it is also available with a black/white trim, and in sizes child L to adult XXL. The RRP starts at £117 for child L.

It has an attractive, sporty appearance that makes it ideal for daily wear outside the competition environment, whether riding at home or out training. I have received positive comments from fellow riders in both situations. It has a soft collar with matching material around the hips and smart piping over the shoulders. There is a discrete opening that the lanyard can be passed through to secure it easily to the saddle.

As one of Helite’s own brand outers, the airvest zips quickly and easily into the gilet, making it a breeze to use as a single piece of clothing. The gilet provides external protection to the airvest and is washable at 30°, which the airvest is not. The gilet has washed well in my washing machine, coming up looking as good as new.

I have worn this outer with the airvest combined for showjumping training, flatwork schooling and hacking. It was very comfortable in all cases. At no time did I feel impeded by the lanyard, or restricted by the vest/gilet. I liked the smart appearance and felt confident knowing that were I to part company with my horse, I would have the protection of the airvest to help me avoid injury. This helped me to remain relaxed in the saddle on occasions when my horse felt a little more spicy than usual!

It was far less restrictive than wearing a combined body protector with airvest and after riding I was cooler than I typically was having had a similar ride while wearing the combined option. I have also worn this outer with the airvest over my body protector while cross-country schooling successfully.

Helite Airjump Jacket Outer

This smart Helite-branded black show jacket is also designed so the airvest can be quickly and easily zipped inside to make it into a single item of clothing. It’s available in black, in child L to adult XXL, with an RRP of £320.

The jacket is fastened with a hidden zip, plus three H-branded brushed silver buttons/press studs in front, with a small disk on the back of the collar.

The jacket has pipped edges, two outside pockets with discrete zip fastenings, and there are two riding vents at the rear. There is a perforated section of material under the arms to improve breathability. It also has the small opening on the front to allow the airvest lanyard to pass through.

My initial impression is that it looks smart and is comfortable to wear. It is machine washable at 30degrees. I have not yet tried it in the saddle.

LotusRomeo for H show jacket

This stylish ladies show jacket is made from an extremely stretchy and lightweight soft mesh material. It is designed to be worn over the top of the Helite Zip’In 2 Airvest, but is not attached to it, leaving two separate garments.

The jacket is fastened by a concealed zip behind four plastic buttons. It has open-topped pockets on the front on both sides, double vent to the rear and the all-important opening to the front to allow the lanyard to pass through.

The fashionable cut is very close fitting, which is further accentuated by the material, meaning it is an attractive choice for a slim figure, but it is less flattering for anyone with natural lumps or bumps that they prefer not to show to the world. It also shows the slight extra bulk of the air jacket more than the black jacket with the thicker material.

I expect this jacket will be a great option for the summer months, thanks to its excellent breathability. It can also be worn on its own without the air jacket if you wish. Although Helite recommend that you wear the same size outer to the air vest, as this jacket is worn as a separate outer, I would recommend sizing up if you prefer a less closely fitted jacket.

Verdict

H&H Approved – Even without the outers, the Helite Zip’In 2 Airbag is a stylish option for anyone wanting extra protection while riding with the minimum of bulk and no restriction. The range of outers, which is far more extensive than those outlined above, makes it a great option for both leisure and competition riders. The only downside I can see is the price, but I believe it is an investment that will pay back in spades when it comes to rider confidence and safety.

Who tested the Helite Zip’In 2 Airbag with outers?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She has an Irish Sport Horse kept at livery, who she is training with grassroots eventing in mind and rides most days.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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A new standard for equestrian air jackets is in the pipeline, with hopes it will give additional confidence to manufacturers and riders.

Air vests from reputable brands already undergo significant safety testing and product development. All safety products marketed in the EU must be CE certified to show they comply with personal protection standards. The same applied for Britain, where at present, they must be CE or UKCA certified.

But there is not as yet a British or European-wide CE standard specific to equestrian airbags, in the same way as there is for body protectors and riding hats. The CRITT (Regional Centre for Innovation and Technology Transfer) in France published an equestrian-specific standard in 2022 (NF S72-800-2022), which is part of its CE certification testing process for riding air vests.

The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA), as part of a European standards committee, has now drafted a standard specific to equestrian air vests, which drew from a number of sources, including the motorcycle and CRITT standards and British test house Satra Technology’s own air vest testing standard, with new input. It will harmonise protocols for testing equestrian air vests and will be an add-on to existing body protector standards, as part two of the European standard EN 13158.

European and BETA body protector standards are closely linked, and air vest standards will work in the same way.

“A standard gives manufacturers a benchmark and gives users an assurance that the garment has been tested like for like with other garments and meets the standard,” BETA chief executive Claire Williams told H&H.

The incoming standard features a combination of requirements, including inflation speed, maximum pressure, deflation rate, parts of the body it covers and lanyard length. This involves a complex table to take into consideration the differences between a child falling off a pony and an adult coming off an 18hh horse.

Option to test to new standard

Manufacturers will have the option to test to the standard. To do so, they will be required to supply their range of sizes, and testing will involve a variety of methods. The vests will also be measured for ergonomics as well as “innocuousness”, which means ensuring elements designed for protection will not accidentally hurt someone.

“When we are writing a standard, we have to be very careful to not be design-restrictive – that means putting something in the standard that would prevent innovation,” added Ms Williams.

The final draft has been submitted and is expected to take two to three years to go through the consultation, approval, publishing and harmonisation process.

Peter Riley, UK managing director of air jacket company Helite, told H&H the company is “fully behind the standard”.

He added that education – from fitting to care and more – is the brand’s big focus, adding that the company is keen to work with BETA on education programmes, with the standard a part of that process.

Rachel Ricci, managing director of Hit Air UK, told H&H the company welcomes any harmonisation of standards for equestrian use, although it hopes this will mean that BETA uses its influence to harmonise CE and UK equestrian certification rather than adding another layer of testing for a separate BETA label.

“The CE certification we currently undergo is already painstaking and requires rigorous testing of inflation time, pressures, deflation time, lanyard length, sizing and canister size, indeed a complex matrix of criteria,” she said, adding that process takes innocuousness into account.

She added that Hit Air UK chose to certify two of its latest models last year using the “very strict” French equestrian CRITT standard, and two more go through this month.

“We have been lobbying BETA for many years for certification to be made specific to equestrian use in the UK, so that it can be regulated by bodies such as British Eventing and British Showjumping,” she said. “We were, however, hoping that this wouldn’t take an additional two to three years.”

US research under way

In the United States, a separate two-year, multi-part project by the US Hunter Jumper Association and Virginia Tech Laboratories to look at equestrian safety vests is under way.

The campaign will review current equestrian vest protection standards, investigate the most common types of torso impacts and injuries, and evaluate current testing methodologies.

It will also develop a biologically modelled impact protocol for evaluating air and standard protective vests, and test and rate the performance of current chest protection systems.

Dr Stefan Duma, one of the lead researchers, told H&H the ultimate goal is to establish a ratings or evaluation system for consumers.

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THE “stigma” around wearing body protection in showjumping shows signs of decreasing – but more people need to follow suit, an A&E doctor believes.

A number of top riders have been seen wearing air jackets this summer, including at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) and the World Showjumping Championships.

But doctor Kate Ward, who has jumped up to 1.40m level, told H&H that in her day job, in the trauma unit of a Kent hospital, she sees people hurt in horse-related incidents every day. And although, she said, all those injured in falls had been wearing safety helmets, “the thing that astounds me is that only one patient I’ve seen in the last two years was wearing any kind of body protector”.

“I am not sure if this is coincidence or maybe the people wearing body protectors don’t come to A&E as much,” she said, adding that the one rider who was wearing one was unharmed, although she was in her seventies.

Kate herself started wearing a body protector first, after “a couple of near misses; falls where I couldn’t believe I wasn’t hurt”, then started looking into air jackets.

“I thought if they’re good enough for people coming off motorbikes, they’re probably quite a good idea if you fall off a horse,” she said, adding that the vests are far less bulky than early versions, to the point people now say they cannot see she is wearing hers.

Kate added that the turning point was when a horse’s bit snapped at home and he “bolted towards the concrete” from her unfenced arena. The horse turned left instead of right and she baled out onto the soft surface, but “after that thought ‘I’m going shopping.’”

She now does not like riding without it, but feels the stigma about body protection is still there in jumping.

“Why is there still this stigma regarding safety in this country?” she said. “Do people deem it demeaning to wear more protection? Are we stuck in the dark ages regarding tradition? There may be no clinical trial data that I know of regarding air jackets, but the logic speaks for itself. People need to take safety seriously. My conclusions are all observational, I just feel passionately about safety in equine sports, and if you saw the injuries I am faced with on a weekly basis, you would understand why. It can do no harm, only good, and anything that reduces the risk of serious injury should be considered essential.

“You are never too good to take safety seriously.”

Kate hopes to conduct an audit at work, to try to find some statistics and trends in riding falls.

One of the riders wearing an air vest at the RIHS was US-based Irishman Andrew Bourns, who told H&H that there is less stigma around wearing them in the US.

“A good friend of mine, [fellow Irish showjumper] Kevin Babington, broke his neck and was paralysed in a fall,” Andrew said. “After that happened, my mum insisted I started wearing one and Freejump [which makes his air vest] gave me full sponsorship. It gives you an enormous amount of protection.”

Andrew said he “very strongly” promotes the wearing of the vests. He uses his whenever he is jumping, including at home.

“All my clients wear them and anyone I’m close to,” he said. “My mum broke her neck in a horse accident and was in a wheelchair for eight years before she died, so it’s a very close-to- home subject for me. I’m very thankful for Freejump’s support and it’s important to draw attention to it. If it saves one life, or someone being badly injured, it’s totally worth it.”

Jodie Hall McAteer, who is also supported by Freejump and was wearing one of the company’s vets at Hickstead, told H&H: “It’s a dangerous sport and it’s easy to forget the risk involved every time you canter into the ring, so to have that extra level of protection and security is definitely worthwhile. I wasn’t sure at first, I was a bit sceptical, but you can’t really feel it when you’re wearing it. It’s so comfortable and light.

“You don’t see it so often, especially competing at the higher levels, but in January, I had a bad fall and wasn’t wearing one. I really hurt my neck and I thought, if I’d had something, had this [perhaps I wouldn’t have been injured]; I’d be silly not to.”

Zara Dickson, equine safety specialist for manufacturer Helite, told H&H there has been an increase in sales of vets to showjumpers this year.

She agrees there has been a stigma, also in the dressage and showjumping phases of eventing.

“It seems to be, ‘You need protection across country and nothing else,’ but there have been studies showing you’re more likely to have an accident schooling or hacking, and a lot of showjumpers have been buying them for schooling young horses at home,” she said. “We’ve seen a sharp increase.”

Ms Dickson added that as a company, Helite does not want people to feel they have been “sold a product”, but instead explains why they need the protection and how they will benefit.

“We’ve got testimonials from people saying the [jackets] have saved their lives,” she said. “I had one mother who’d bought one for her child and the first time out, she fell off showjumping. She messaged to say, ‘Thank you so much.’ It’s difficult trying to get the safety message across without sounding like you’re trying to sell to them, but people are choosing them now in showjumping, from Pony Club to top riders, which is nice to see.”

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One of the riders flying the flag for wearing body protection in top-level showjumping says that if one person can be saved from death or serious injury, that will be worth it in itself.

A number of the competitors in the international classes at last week’s Royal International Horse Show were seen in body protection. They are not compulsory for showjumping under national or international rules, but those riders H&H spoke to believe they are the future.

Andrew Bourns, who represented Ireland in the Nations Cup on Friday (29 July) and jumped a superb round for just one time-fault in Sunday’s King George V Gold Cup, told H&H that there is less stigma around wearing them in the US, where he is based, than there is here.

“A good friend of mine, [fellow Irish showjumper] Kevin Babington, broke his neck and was paralysed in a fall,” Andrew told H&H. “After that happened, my mum insisted I started wearing one and Freejump [which makes his air vest] gave me full sponsorship. It gives you an enormous amount of protection.”

Andrew said he “very strongly” promotes the wearing of the vests. He uses his whenever he is jumping, including at home.

“All my clients wear them, and anyone I’m close to,” he said. “My mum broke her neck in a horse accident and was in a wheelchair for eight years before she died so it’s a very close to home subject for me.

“I’m very thankful for Freejump’s support and it’s important to draw attention to it. If it saves one life, or someone being badly injured, it’s totally worth it.”

Jodie Hall McAteer, who is one of the British reserves for next week’s World Showjumping Championships, believes wearing body protection for jumping is “the way forward”.

“It’s a dangerous sport and it’s easy to forget the risk involved every time you canter into the ring, so to have that extra level of protection and security is definitely worthwhile,” she said.

Jodie is also sponsored and supported by Freejump, which makes the air vest she wears.

“I wasn’t sure at first, I was a bit sceptical,” she said. “I’d never worn one before but you can’t really feel it when you’re wearing it. It’s so comfortable and light, and easy to slip on and off.

“You don’t see it so often, especially competing at the higher levels, but in January, I had a bad fall and wasn’t wearing one. I really hurt my neck and I thought, if I’d had something, had this [perhaps I wouldn’t have been injured]; it’s definitely worth doing, and I’d be silly not to.”

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Air vests are officially recommended for cross-country in international eventing fixtures for the first time in 2022.

This new recommendation is just that – it is not a compulsory requirement, and body protectors to the correct standard must still be worn.

“We can’t make it mandatory yet for two reasons,” FEI medical committee chairman Mark Hart told the eventing risk management seminar (22 January).

“One, we don’t have enough definitive evidence to show the beneficial effect, and if there is any potential downside.”

He added that the FEI has started to contact other sports, including motocross and car racing in this area, as it looks further towards protection for the neck, chest, back, abdominal organs and shoulders.

“I think more research needs to be done. I think the preponderance of evidence is that air vests probably do help a majority of the time,” said Dr Hart.

“As we know from seat belts, there are rare cases where seat belts actually are deleterious. You have to look at the overall benefit of a particular safety measure, knowing that it’s not going to work in every situation.”

H&H has contacted British Eventing to ask whether it will be recommending air vests for cross-country in national classes.

Dr Hart also spoke of upgrades to the FEI rules for provision of medical services at events. In essence, this is moving towards ensuring qualified professionals with certain skills are on duty for each phase, rather than choosing medical cover based on job title. These are recommended for two years, before they have to be followed, and will become mandatory from 2023.

There is also a move towards continued monitoring of riders who have had a fall, throughout their time at a venue. At the moment, riders must be checked by the medical officer after a fall – regardless of whether they fell in training or competition – before they get back on a horse or leave the venue.

With concussion in riders “high on the radar”, Dr Hart said there is a responsibility “to check in on” riders throughout their time on site.

“We know that a lot of concussions are missed,” he said. “The hard part is that we cannot always diagnose a concussion in the first five minutes. Sometimes concussion symptoms come on 30 minutes later, even that night or the next day.”

He added that bleeds on the brain also “don’t always present right away”.

“I think we need to get two parts of this concept. One, we do have measures to immediately assess whether somebody has had a serious concussion or not,” he said.

“But secondly, [realise that] this is a dynamic process and I think we have to change the medical response to those people who fall, who possibly had a concussion, [and that they] have to be evaluated throughout their time on the venue.”

He said time-frames have not been specified; the key message is that someone can “look great after a fall”, but there remains a “responsibility to check in on them”.

Dr Hart also indicated that the FEI is looking at the potential of concussion blood tests in the near future.

“It’s fascinating,” he said. “My day job is as a cardiologist and we use blood tests to look at damage to the heart every day.”

He added that there are tests already, some of which look for markers indicating brain injury immediately after suspected concussions, and some used hours later.

“I think blood tests will be very important, but there’s a lot of research that has to happen to correlate that with the clinical scenario that’s happening, and what we do with the results once we have them,” he said. “We are definitely working on that.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A rider whose horse rolled on her when they fell while cross-country schooling has spoken of the importance of wearing an air jacket.

Madeleine Hubel, from York, was taking part at a training camp over 90cm fences on Saturday (28 September) when her 16hh Irish mare Holly caught her back legs over a jump.

“I jumped a drop down into water and was really pleased with Holly and then the last thing I remember is taking off at a jump coming out of the water,” Madeleine told H&H.

“I was told by my friend, Charlotte, Holly jumped really boldly and ended up straddling the fence. I nose-dived to the ground and Holly followed, landed behind me then rolled on my legs and pelvis.”

Madeleine said the next thing she remembers is the noise of the Midlands Air Ambulance landing.

“I was vaguely aware of where I was but Charlotte said I wasn’t making much sense. My instructor, Niki de Macedo, looked after me until the paramedics arrived and I was taken to the hospital,” she said.

“I had a CT scan and X-rays to check my pelvis but the doctors eliminated any serious injuries quite quickly. I had a gravel rash down my cheek, a burst lip and I broke both my wrists.”

Madeleine had surgery to insert pins in her wrists on Sunday.

“I can’t ride for six weeks and feel a bit useless having two arms out of action. Holly is kept at Charlotte’s yard so she is going to look after her. Thankfully Holly was absolutely fine after the fall and will have a holiday while I can’t ride. She’s a tough cookie and she’s such an easy horse, you can pick her up and put her down,” she said.

“I will miss riding but it’s one of those things. I’m looking forward to getting back on and hope to go cross-country schooling in spring. At the moment I don’t have any nerves about getting back on because I know it was a freak accident wasn’t anyone’s fault.”

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Madeleine said the doctors believed the air jacket prevented Madeleine suffering any further injuries and she has urged others to consider wearing one.

“The combination of my air jacket, body-protector and hat really helped and I’ve been very lucky. Niki thinks it saved my life. If I hadn’t had the air jacket things would have been a lot worse,” she said.

“Air jackets provide an additional safety level and what’s a few hundred of pounds for safety? Some riders competing at lower levels think they might not need one but it doesn’t matter if you’re jumping 50cm or a metre – you’re still putting yourself in danger – you hope not, but there are still risks.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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Point Two has clarified the servicing situation over its older-style screw-in canister air jackets after customers expressed confusion on social media.

Some people were worried they would no longer be able to get the right type of canisters to fit their jackets.

There was also concern from some that their jackets would no longer be able to be serviced or would require an expensive upgrade.

Point Two has now set the record straight.

A statement from chief executive Lee Middleton said the company will “always continue to supply screw-in canisters”.

It will also continue to service all its jackets this year, but from 2018 it will no longer service the older-style screw-in canister jackets.

However, it is offering discount options to riders to upgrade their old jackets instead of having a service.

These older-style jackets with a screw-in canister previously sold by Point Two were manufactured by a French company called Helite — which also sells jackets under its own name.

Charlie Morris, of Treehouse Sporting Colours, the UK supplier of Helite jackets, confirmed to H&H that the company will still offer servicing of older style Point Two jackets.

He said Treehouse sends a box of air jackets for servicing to Helite on a weekly basis.

Point Two is working to help create a recognised safety standard to which all airbags would be tested.

It has been working with SATRA — a notified body for various European directives including personal protection equipment that is recognised by the British Equestrian Trade Association.

“Point Two launched the new ProAir2 bayonet airbag system in October 2012 – this system is tested to the SATRA M38: July 2012 – requirements for air-vests for use in horse riding, intended to give protection in the event of a fall to ground,” added Mr Middleton’s statement.

“SATRA along with the Injured Jockeys Fund, Dr Michael Turner [former British Horseracing Authority chief medical officer and leading committee member of the International Concussion & Head Injury Research Foundation] and Point Two, carried out extensive research to develop the M38 & M39 (jockey vest) standard which we believe all air vests should be tested to so that you, the customer are purchasing a safe and reliable product.

“If you choose to have your old air vest serviced by another brand, please ensure they are replacing your airbag.”

Mr Middleton also stressed the importance of riders ensuring their air jackets are serviced “annually, after every six inflations or a particularly heavy fall”.

“Even if your air vest hasn’t inflated since purchase, years of UVA, salt, sand etc, can degrade the internal airbag system,” he said. “Even if it does seem to be inflating correctly that does not necessarily mean that it will withstand a heavy fall, which is why when we service our air jackets we replace the airbag every time we service your vest.”

Click here to read the full statement from Point Two.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

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As Kate Flynn's daughter and her new pony become regulars on the hunting field, she decides to scrape together the pennies to invest in an air jacket

I think it must be something to do with my age. Or perhaps it’s a “being a mother” thing, that my focus on safety has become greatly heightened over the years.

Now, I say “greatly heightened”, if I am brutally honest what I really mean is “of paramount concern”.

It started with my own riding, not long after having my first child. That sense of carefree “point me at a fence and I’ll jump it” was almost overnight replaced with an uncertainty and self-doubt that resulted in me eventually stopping riding altogether.

One tip-up too far and I hung up my spurs in favour of a quieter, safer life with two feet firmly on the ground. Disappointing? Yes, but I know I’m not the only one out there to have experienced this Mother’s Anguish Syndrome, a self-preservation reaction.

However, when it comes to the safety of my “babies”… well, that’s a whole different set of anxieties.

So, perhaps it’s no surprise then that when Daughter and I went on the hunt for a new pony, it took so long to find the right one, when niggling away at the back of my mind was the question of whether I could really trust this unknown animal with my precious cargo.

An acceptable safety rating

Regular blog readers will know that many ponies failed the test, and Munch was the only one who managed to convince me of his safety rating.

Of course, his subsequent party piece of bucking at will stuck two fingers up at my “Flynn Kitemark Certification”! Nevertheless, we bottomed that one out, and his aptitude for fearless hunting prompted a further round of safety considerations on my part.

The idea of an air vest for Daughter began when a friend of mine declared herself oblivious to any mocking by her hunting peers when sporting her air vest on the field.

I found it amazing that anyone should even question someone’s attempts at self preservation in such a notoriously hazardous sport as hunting.

Style over safety? Not for my girl! Unwittingly, my friend had planted a small nugget of an idea in my mind and I began researching the air vest market. Having picked myself up off the floor after seeing the price of them, it appeared there were two main contenders.

I asked around and the feedback I got was that people all thought they were a great idea, but were put off by the price. Indeed, I had noticed on a fence-judging stint at a hunter trial last season that more and more riders were starting to wear them.

I broached the subject with Daughter who expressed an indifference to wearing one for cross-country and hunting, but categorically wouldn’t entertain the idea of wearing one for anything else.

Fair enough. A little more Googling later, I had identified the one that I felt had the best protection system. Scraping the pennies together, I invested and it duly arrived the day before a meet.

‘You’ll be wishing you were wearing one of these…’

“What are you wearing that for?” called a young lad at the meet, eyeing Daughter’s vest with disdain. Daughter turned towards him from atop her pony.

“When you fall off you’ll be wishing you were wearing one of these bad boys,” she retorted calmly. Nice one! The boy grinned, firmly put back in his place, and they all set off at a steady walk towards the first gate.

Now, unless you’ve been lucky enough to have spent the last few months in Barbados, you’ll know it’s been ever so slightly wet here this winter.

To say the going was deep would be a major an understatement. Following on foot, we spotted Daughter and friends at the top of a field going full pelt.

Like this? You might also enjoy reading these:

Ouch! Hunting thrills and spills in pictures

The (challenging) diary of owning a pony: model hunting pony behaviour

A few minutes later as we walked in the direction of the gate they had been heading towards, we caught sight of three ponies standing in the gateway. I raised my binoculars, “No, that’s not Munch, that’s a roan,” I stated flatly to hubby who clearly had better eyesight than me, because as we got closer, I could see the roan was in fact Munch with Daughter, both completely plastered in deep, rich brown mud. It was dripping from every quarter, including Munch’s face.

“We slipped at a gallop, face planted and both Munch and I came down in the mud,” declared Daughter who had been thrown clear of the pony in the ruck.

“Can you deflate me?” she asked, her air vest having instantaneously detonated as she and Munch parted company. Within a couple of minutes, the vest was deflated, poppa’d back into place and a new gas canister fitted.

Neither pony nor rider were any the worse for their mud-wrestling experience, and without a care in the world, they set off again to join the field. Did the vest save Daughter from injury, we’ll never know. Did it buy me peace of mind? Yes, £400-worth to be precise!

Read more of Kate Flynn’s blogs about the ups and downs of owning a new pony

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More tests into the efficacy of air jackets are in the pipeline as a manufacturer seeks to find further proof that the devices have a “significant effect on reducing injuries” in everyday falls.

Hit-Air is meeting with the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) and British Eventing (BE) later this month.

In November H&H reported on findings by TRL on behalf of BE. The research focused on rotational falls, and concluded that air vests can reduce the risk of serious injury by 13%.

A series of controlled tests were carried out, in which an equine cadaver was dropped on to a crash test dummy wearing a BETA 2009 Level 3 body and shoulder protector, and an air jacket. The results showed that the air jacket reduced compression, and that the predicted risk of severe chest injury fell from 94% to 81%.

“This means that it could have a beneficial effect in reducing the likelihood of severe injury from a horse falling on a rider,” read a BE statement. “However, there is still a high probability of riders sustaining a severe injury.“

Now, air jacket manufacturer Hit-Air is seeking to find out more information for a wider range of falls. The company “welcomed” this research and now has plans to build on this. The new research aims to look at injuries aside from those sustained in a rotational fall.

“We are meeting with the TRL to develop plans to simulate the effect of wearing a Hit-Air vest in the most common types of falls,” Rachel Ricci of Hit-Air told H&H.

“Non-rotational falls represent more than 98% of falls in BE and over 84% of injuries.”

Hit-Air has already conducted extensive testing in labs in Japan and Europe, but “appreciated the need for independent verification of methodology and results”.

“We want to prove what we hear from riders and medical professionals and show that air has a significant effect on reducing injuries to the neck and spine in many falls,” added Ms Ricci.

Jonathan Clissold, head of safety at BE, will be involved for “transparency”.

Although air jackets were originally aimed at elite eventers, the equipment is now common at lower level events and some riders choose to wear them out hacking.

“We also hope to involve the British Horse Society so that the research can be opened up to the leisure riding contingent,” said Ms Ricci. “We’ve seen a 20% growth year-on-year in this area.”

Horse&Hound, 14 January ’16

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Air jackets now dominate the eventing market and to keep up with the demand Rodney Powell has added a design to its range.

The new jacket uses Point Two’s technology and has an inflation rate of around 1/10th of a second.

The vest has been made to complement Rodney Powell’s BETA Level 3 body protectors.

“We introduced the air vest as we realise that our customers often want the added assurance of an air jacket,” said a spokesman from the company.

The airbag component has a lifetime warranty, provided that it is registered and receives an annual service with a nominated specialist.

The jacket comes in black, sizes S-XL and costs £398.

The equestrian world, where emphasis is often placed on tradition and elegance, is not known for embracing new safety inventions. It took decades to persuade hunt followers to wear chinstraps and some still resist.

But within 5 years of coming on to the market, the air jacket has taken the eventing world by storm and its appeal to all riders seems to be increasing.

“When we first brought the product over from America we concentrated on eventers as the ‘at risk’ group,” said Rachael Faulkner from Hit Air.

“But we found that hackers were asking about the technology. When you think about it, 1 of the most dangerous things you can do is ride down the road. At a competition it’s a controlled environment, but on the road anything can happen.”

The other leading manufacturer in the United Kingdom, Point Two, has also seen its market diversify.

“When we started, 95% of our business was eventing, but now it only makes up 30%,” said Point Two’s Lee Middleton.

“Demand has grown across all the disciplines. The hunting market has been 1 of our big growth areas in the past couple of years, but I also had a grand prix dressage rider buy a jacket last week.”

British Dressage and British Showjumping both allow riders to compete in air jackets if they wish. The uptake in the showing community is thought to be less and air jackets are not mentioned in many leading societies’ rulebooks.

For the jacket to be suitable for all disciplines, different styles are now available, from fluorescent vests to hunting coats (news, 24 October).

One popular invention has been the Soft Shell air jacket, which looks like a normal gilet but has been fitted with Point Two technology. The company is also hoping to launch a showjumping jacket, into which an air jacket can be inserted, later this month.

Riders are using them at home as well as at competitions. A recent survey by Cambridge University found that 70% of accidents in which riders ended up in hospital happened out hacking or schooling rather than competing.

“I wear it every time I jump, whether this is in a lesson, riding club or competition,” said H&H reader Kate Nichols. “When I am wearing it I am much more confident and ride more positively into fences.”

Amy Bratt added: “You soon forget you have it on. It’s not big and bulky and doesn’t affect your riding, so why wouldn’t you put it on?”

The next generation

A number of parents are now also making their children wear them. Pony Club volunteers are seeing riders as young as 7 wearing air jackets.

Alison Keene is trying to persuade her daughter to wear a jacket.

“She won’t wear a traditional body protector to hack out in because she feels silly, but she will wear an air jacket,” said Alison.

“She will be moving on to a horse in September and it will be farther to fall. I want it to be second nature for her to wear a jacket by then.”

Lucy Moreton first bought an air jacket for her daughter to hunt and ride cross-country in when she was 10.

“It was expensive, but what price do you put on her neck and back?” Lucy pointed out.

“It is not only for the major falls — she has had none — but also to save bruises when out hunting. It can make the difference between a miserable child wanting to come home and one who can get up and go on.”

New rental scheme

Point Two is now offering customers the opportunity to rent rather than buy its Pro Air or Hunter Air jackets. With a £200 deposit and £10 postage fee, riders can hire the jacket for £30 a month. At the end of the hire term agreement, customers will be given a £50 voucher if they decide to buy one.

So far, more than 50 customers have used the service, ranging from amateur riders trying eventing to a customer heading off on a riding safari.

Always the best option?

Despite the rising popularity of air jackets, some riders are still concerned that they could actually cause problems. A particular worry is the noise the jacket makes when it goes off.

4-star eventer Phoebe Buckley had a rotational fall at Burnham Market last month (17 April) and was not wearing a jacket (pictured left).

“I wholeheartedly believe more harm than good would have been done by an air jacket,” she told H&H.

“I got away just with bruises. The mare that fell with me is incredibly sharp. In the video you can she has got 1 hindleg either side of my torso. If there had been a bang she would have taken my head off.

“People are too quick to credit the air jacket for being life saving.”

Some less experienced riders have also had problems.

“I fell off wearing [an air jacket] and it did soften the blow, but I found the noise terrified the horse,” said H&H reader Daryl Freeman. “As a result it sits in the wardrobe in the horsebox.”

But manufacturers argue that the sound is rarely an issue.

“Of course you can’t guarantee that every horse is going to be fine,” said Ms Faulkner. “But we have very few people complaining about the noise. The sound is like the pop of opening a can of a fizzy drink.”

With or without a body protector?

It is recommended that air jackets are always worn with a body protector, but many riders choose to wear just the jacket.

“The combination of the 2 gives the most protection, but many people find traditional body protectors quite restrictive,” said Ms Faulkner. “Riding in an air jacket on its own is better than riding in nothing.

“The main thing with the air jacket is there is always a chance it might not go off. There is room for human error because you might forget to clip it in or forget to put in a canister.”

Compulsory for eventing?

Although some riders still have their concerns, the popularity of the air jacket is undeniable. Point Two estimates it has sold more than 40,000 jackets and has seen sales increase by 50% in the past six months.

British Eventing has not ruled out the possibility of making the jackets compulsory for cross-country in the future, if there is a recognised British safety standard for them.

“We look forward to seeing a safety standard being developed for testing air jackets,” said a spokesman.

Ms Faulkner added: “It’s like a helmet. When I was riding 20 years ago, I didn’t ride in one. Now I wouldn’t leave the yard without a hat. I believe body protection will go the same way.”

Tailoring firm Alexander James has designed a hunting coat that can conceal a Point Two Hunter air jacket.

“It came to our attention that riders couldn’t fit air jackets underneath their hunting or competition jackets,” said Alan Little, who founded Alexander James 35 years ago.

“We have been working closely with both Point Two and our clients as we understand how popular air jackets have become.”

The hunting coats are all bespoke, so can be made in different hunt colours — and can expand if an air jacket worn underneath inflates.

“We’ve inserted a side panel made from stretch fabric underneath the arm and in the sleeve,” said Alan. “From the front and back it looks like a traditional hunting coat, although it is made in a slightly lighter weight cloth.”

Duke of Beaufort’s subscriber George Kershaw has had a stretch fabric panel inserted under the arm of a blue and buff coat for this season, having purchased a Point Two Hunter last year.

“I suffered very serious internal injuries after a bad fall in 2011,” said George, who hunts regularly.

“I believe it would have been less significant had I been wearing an air jacket.”

George’s hunter was unfazed when his air jacket went off last season.

“The noise was less than the crack of a twig — and certainly less than the crack of a hunting whip.”

“Hunting is our fastest growing market,” added Lee Middleton, managing director of Point Two. The firm has a special model of the air vest designed for hunt followers, with a flusher fit to the body, and no logo.

“Hunting folk tend to be quite conservative and new ideas catch on slowly, but my guess is that in 5 years time these will be as common as straps on hats, especially now they can be worn underneath your hunting coat,” concluded George.

Prices start from £605. For more information visit www.alexander-james.co.uk

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (24 October, 2013)

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Riders with Point Two air jackets say they have been left confused after the company and its former supplier issued conflicting statements on how to service the garments.

Point Two started selling air jackets made by the French company Helite in 2009.

But last autumn, Point Two brought production in-house and now makes its own jacket, which has a different triggering and canister system.

The new canister and airbag system has been fully CE certified — a European Union requirement for personal protective equipment.

Julian Westaway of Point Two told H&H it was “just as safe as earlier versions of the Point Two air jackets”.

But Treehouse, formerly the largest retail outlet for Point Two jackets, has opted to distribute Helite’s version.

Charlie Morris of Treehouse told H&H he “preferred the Helite triggering system and screw-in canister, rather than Point Two’s ‘bayonet’ canister”.

Confusion arose from an advert taken out by Helite in H&H, which stated that owners of one of the 30,000 “original” airbag jackets with a Helite label must have it serviced and maintained by Treehouse or Helite engineers — “otherwise you will invalidate your CE certification”.

Point Two’s Julian Westaway insisted this was not the case.

“Should anyone other than a Point Two engineer attempt to service our vests, it will negate any liability and warranty by Point Two,” he told H&H.

“We have serviced the jackets for four years and the lifetime warranty is with us,” added director Lee Middleton.

Both companies recommend an annual service (at a cost of around £27). H&H readers say they are now confused as to which company to contact.

“Both seem to be saying they’d invalidate warranties and safety regulations, so not sure where to go now,” wrote one forum user.

Another said the argument “left a sour taste in the mouth — this is people’s safety at stake here”.

H&H went back to both Helite and Point Two. Each maintains that they should service the jackets, leaving something of a grey area.

Claire Williams of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) said if readers were worried, they should examine their warranty and then contact whoever sold the item.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (28 February 2013)

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The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has upheld a complaint by air jacket distributor Hit-air against its rival Point Two.

Point Two placed an advert in Horse & Hound, 24 March 2011 that implied that Hit-air jackets did not comply with British safety standards.

Although the advert did not name Hit-air, it appeared in the same issue as a news story about the launch of the company’s jacket.

The ASA felt readers would assume the comments were about Hit-air.

The ASA ruled that the claims were “derogatory to Hit-air and discredited its business“.

Rachel Ricci of Hit-air said: “ASA rules are rarely so blatantly disregarded.

“As a new venture we were horrified about the impact this would have on our business and the public’s perception of air vests in general.

“We felt it brought the whole air vest industry into disrepute.

“We are still asked by customers and potential stockists if our vests are CE certified.

“We are relieved that this complaint against Point Two has been upheld by the ASA.”

At the time of placing the advert, Point Two was convinced Hit-air jackets were not CE certified and was acting in the public interest, said the company’s Lee Middleton.

“Our concern was that if there was an accident and their jacket was not legal, the person who sold it would be prosecuted and everyone would drop air jackets,” he said.

“I did not want all our work to be for nothing.”

He now agrees that Hit-air jackets are fully tested and safe.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (5 April 2012)

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Inflatable safety jacket manufacturers Point Two and Hit Air are warning customers not to be tempted to use cheaper air canisters in their jackets – because they don’t have the same effect.

Both companies have received reports that you can buy canisters over the internet for a fraction of the price they charge for replacements.

“It seems crazy when people have paid out for an air jacket then to use these unsafe canisters for the sake of a few pounds,” said Freya Norrie of Point Two.

The issue came to light when customer Michelle Stubbs returned her air jacket to Point Two to be serviced and they found a foreign air canister.

Director Lee Middleton tracked down the Hungarian makers of the canister on the internet and found it cost just £2.50, compared with £17.50 from Point Two.

When he tested the canister, he found it had a much thicker casing and the piston that pierces the canister to inflate the jacket was unable to do so.

“I tried five and only one set off, and then it took a full second to inflate the jacket – ours takes 0.1 second,” he said.

“They are designed to be used in airguns, and although they look almost identical to ours, they have a different specification.”

Rachael Faulkner of Hit Air added: “I don’t believe they fit our jackets, but customers have asked why they need to pay £15 for one of our canisters when these are so cheap.

“The issue we and Point Two have is that we require a special licence to bring our canisters into the UK, as they are classed as hazardous goods, which is very expensive.

“We recommend that our customers only use our canisters in our jackets.”

Michelle Stubbs of Cuddington, Cheshire, told H&H she received the canister from a fellow eventer after she lent her spare one out.

She said she was aware of the safety issues but the difference in price was a big issue.

“Some of the girls on my yard would not consider wearing their jacket for breaking young horses, jumping lessons or cross-country schooling because, if they fell off, the session would cost an extra £17.50,” she said.

“Some of them said they would consider using foreign canisters [when eventing] as a way to save money.”

Lee Middleton urged riders to put safety first: “If you are still tempted to use these canisters, buy a few and test them first,” he said.

But he added using other canisters would invalidate the jacket’s warranty.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (23 February 2012)

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A new equestrian air jacket for children is about to hit the market in a few weeks.

Point Two’s children’s version of its air jacket weighs about 900g — the same as the adult’s — and will cost £370.

Point Two managing director Lee Middleton developed the children’s jacket in answer to public demand. He said it allows for up to 4in of growth, which could last a child three years.

Unlike the adult version, the children’s air jacket must be fitted by a Point Two retailer.

“We’re not trying to rob people. It’s a high-tech jacket, it’s expensive to produce, but it’s reliable,” he said.

The jacket is designed to be worn over a body protector. The maker claims it offers greater protection for the child’s spine and twice the inflation capacity of the adult model. It comes in small, medium and large, to fit children weighing four stone or over.

The adult Point Two jacket came under fire earlier this year, with industry figures, including the British Equestrian Trade Association and the British Horseracing Authority, calling for more testing.

But Mr Middleton said the children’s jacket has undergone rigorous tests by the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) this summer.

The TRL report concluded that “the Point Two almost eliminates the risk of life-threatening chest injury from a horse fall resulting in a severe chest impact” and “a rider wearing a Point Two could sustain a four-times more severe impact than a rider with no chest protection, with approximately the same predicted injury outcome”.

Find out what H&H readers think of the new product, including their reactions to the price, in today’s magazine (21 October, ’10)

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The Point Two Air Jacket that Piggy French wore at the European Championships in Fontainebleau last year is up for grabs in a raffle for Spinal Research.

The unique Great Britain team kit inflatable jacket, which has been signed by Piggy and fellow top eventers, William Fox-Pitt, Oli Townend, Mary King, Nicola Wilson, Lucy Wiegersma and Tina Cook, is being raffled as part of the Saddle Up for Spinal Research campaign, aimed specifically at riders.

“By buying a raffle ticket you can help us fund our groundbreaking research into spinal cord repair, so we can get people who are paralysed walking and riding again,” said Isabel Robinson, specialist fundraiser at Spinal Research.

It is hoped the raffle will raise £5,000 for the charity and organisers say they are already halfway towards their target.

Point Two Air Jackets are also donating a voucher for each raffle ticket bought, that entitles you to two free air canisters – worth £35 – when you buy a new Air Jacket.

The draw will take place on 29 October.

Tickets cost £2 each or £10 for a book and can be ordered from Isabel Robinson of Spinal Research, on 01483 898786.

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Airbag vests initially designed for motorcyclists are catching the eye of horse-riders.

The vests, produced by Japanese company Hit-Air, feature an internal airbag that can be activated within half a second when a pull cord attached to the saddle is dislodged.

When inflated, the bag provides protection for the rider’s neck, back, chest, sides and hips. The vests also feature fully adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit.

“We have always supplied motorcyclists with these vests,” Ian Wilson from Wild and Wicked, stockists of Hit-Air vests, told H&H, “but we live in a horsey area, and so took on the equestrian side last month.

“They are not designed for use in competitions, but would be ideal for people out hacking or horse-riding on the roads.”

Hit-Air has recently launched the Hit-Air YS Airbag Vest, a fluorescent vest that combines a high-visibility mesh outer cover with the airbag system, providing high visibility and impact absorption.

“Although they have been designed for motorcyclists, the black version of the vests have already been very popular amongst equestrians,” explained Abi Scott from Two Wheel, stockists of Hit-Air, told H&H.

“We are currently waiting for the hi-visibility version to be certified by CE safety standards for equestrian use, but we think it will be perfect for horse-riders on the roads.”

Hit Air are also developing a new range of horse jackets, specifically designed for equestrian use in competition.

For more information, visit www.twowheel.co.uk or www.wildandwicked.com

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British Eventing (BE) is working with the makers of an innovative and popular inflatable jacket.

Since the Point Two jacket (tested in H&H, 26 March) was launched earlier this year its popularity has soared and now the makers claim half the UK’s top eventers are wearing them.

But the jacket, which costs £399, does not conform to BETA (British Equestrian Trade Association) safety standards and therefore cannot be recommended by BE.

“We would like to talk to BETA to see if they can create a category [specifically] for the Point Two,” said BE spokesman Iain Graham.

“But currently all data on its benefits is circumstantial. We cannot recommend it until it has undergone further tests.”

The jacket is worn over a body protector and connects to the saddle by a lanyard. In a fall it inflates to create a rigid support around the body.

BETA’s Claire Williams said: “The Point Two does not meet the European standard for body protectors but we are happy to discuss it with BE.”

Lee Middleton, director of Point Two Equine, said the jacket will go through rigorous testing on a crash-test dummy in the autumn and X-rays will be taken to prove a rider’s neck is not hyperflexed when the jacket inflates.

He added: “Once inflated, the jacket holds you really tight and reduces flexing of the spine. It also absorbs quite a bit of the concussion of a fall.”

For more information visit: www.point-two.co.uk

For this story in full, see the current issue of Horse & Hound (4 June, ’09)

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A company that produces rapid-inflating safety air jackets for horse and motorcycle riders will today be testing them out on the racetrack.

Point Two are taking their motorbike air jackets to Goodwood where a motorbike stunt rider will try out the jacket and test how effective it is — for a Radio One news team feature.

The stunt rider, who has appeared in Bond films, will fall from the bike during the test this afternoon.

Lee Middleton from Point Two said: “The jacket offers neck, back and coccyx protection and inflates in 0.25seconds. The legal requirement to inflate is 0.4seconds and so far we are the only company to produce a jacket legal to wear on the road.”

The company also makes air jackets for equestrian disciplines — under the name Point Two Equine.

Point Two, who started off with the motorbike jackets, produced their first jacket for horse riders after the lead designer’s daughter had a riding accident.

At the moment they produce 2 air jackets for horse riding — and the third is being released for sale next month.

The new Pro-Air is a lightweight 900g jacket designed for event riders.

It provides the same protection as the motorbike jackets but must be worn over a British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) approved body protector.

Lee added: “The riding jackets have to be worn as additional protection and can be used with any approved body protector — except the body cage. It is top-up protection.”

The Pro-Air can also be used for jockeys on the gallops but is not suitable for use on a racecourse.

“We’ve had support in the eventing world from Lucinda Green, Piggy French and Oliver Townend. And in racing it has been championed by John Francome and presenter Nick Luck,” said Lee.

“We are going to watch it in the eventing world first and hopefully next year we will look to make an even lighter model with carbon fibre canisters for racing.”

The jacket is attached to the saddle by a cord. And when you fall from the horse the cord is pulled and the jacket inflates.

“The cord is nice and long, you can lie all the way back on the horse or fall forward and it will not inflate. It will only inflate when it has 6 stones of pressure on it, so if you fall off.

And even if you’re about 20cm off the ground it will still have time to inflate. It is very, very fast,” said Lee.

For more information visit: www.point-two.co.uk

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now