Innovative helmet technology heads winners at BETA International
Innovations in helmet safety were recognised at the British Equestrian Trade Association’s (BETA) trade awards.
Helmets that contain the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) received the top prize and highly commended award in the safety category at BETA International on 20 January.
Charles Owen took top honours for its MS1 pro jockey skull, which is one of several of its helmets to include the technology to “top up” the protection its hats already provide.
“This is a genuine innovation in safety, lightweight, with good fit, shape and ventilation, and removable liner,” said the judges.
In helmets that use MIPS, the shell and the liner are separated by a low friction layer. This means if it is subjected to an angled impact, the low friction layer allows the helmet to slide relative to the head — mimicking the action of the scalp and helping to protect against rotational motions.
The highly commended award went to Finest Brands International’s Champion revolution MIPS deluxe hat.
“We were very excited by the use of MIPS technology, as well as the great quality and labelling. This is a product that Champion and retailers can really shout about,” said the judges.
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Mountain Horse was also rewarded for its use of reflective technology in its illusion reflective jacket in the rider clothing and footwear category.
The technical padded coat features reflective thread, which has been integrated into the fabric on the upper, front ant back of the coat.
“The Illusion is a smart, practical jacket with clever use of reflective technology,” said the judges.
Show organiser Claire Thomas praised the innovation behind the winning products.
“We have been bowled over by the quality of new products being launched at BETA International,” she said.
“It’s extremely exciting to see the industry working so hard to generate all these fantastic new things, with a great deal of enthusiasm, time and money being invested in them.
“We were thrilled to see the winners collect their trophies and our congratulations go to all those who played a part in their success.”
The full list of winners is as follows:
Rider clothing & footwear
Winner: Mountain Horse’s illusion reflective jacket
Highly commended: Ariat Europe Devon pro nitro boot
Country clothing & footwear
Winner: Sioen UK’s baleno Pembroke jacket
Highly commended: Aigle International UK’s mujal vest
Highly commended: Grubs Boots’s cyclone boot
Feed & supplements
Winner: NAF’s five star magic
General
Winner: Stride Innovations’ steady wrist band
Highly commended: Crafty Ponies’ stableyard set
Horse care equipment & clothing
Winner: Equilibrium Products’ therapy hind and hock magnetic chaps
Highly commended: Comco’s silver bandage pads
Highly commended: Horseware Products’ Amigo Bravo 12 reflectech plus med rug
Pet products
Winner: Product Global’s mud daddy portable washing brush
Highly commended: The Golden Paste Company’s TurmerEase
Saddlery & tack
Company: Bliss of London’s sportiva dressage FLX saddle
Highly commended: The Bombers International Trust’s relaxed performance Weymouth bit
Safety & security
Winner: Charles Owen/Airowear’s MS1 pro jockey skull
Highly commended: Finest Brands International’s champion revolution MIPS deluxe hat
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.