From 1st August 2020 there will be standards for body protectors.
Riders will need to wear Level 3 body protectors on cross country at New Zealand Pony Club and National Equestrian Federation affiliated events and when schooling on their grounds.
Level 3 – is considered appropriate for general riding, competitions including eventing and working with horses. Level 3 body protectors should prevent minor bruising that would have produced stiffness and pain, reduce soft tissue injuries and prevent a limited number of rib fractures.
AirVests are not classified as a Level 3 body protector and are worn over the top of the body protector for eventing.
They can be worn on their own for all other riding activities incl hacking, showjumping, dressage, PC, endurance, hunting …
The great thing about the airvests is that they are minimalistic, light weight and look good as well as providing a large area of protection including the neck.
As soon as the rider is thrown from the horse, the airbag inflates fully in 0.25 secs and protects the rider’s neck, back, chest, sides and hips.
Tests have shown the vest to reduce head acceleration by more than 50% and body acceleration by over 70%.
Airvests give a far larger area of protection than a body protector and are light weight and easy to wear.
Body protectors reduce injuries and are necessary for eventing.
