Wearing a body protector
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We all know that riding can be risky and how important it is to wear the right safety gear. Your riding hat is probably the first bit of gear you think of, but how many of you also wear a body protector whenever you ride? We asked our Facebook followers what they do and here’s what they said.
YES
I didn’t used to wear it but now I try to wear it every ride. I already have a sore back from a car crash and don’t need another injury.
Eleanor Laws
SOMETIMES
Only for crosscountry, or the odd time a few years ago when having jump lessons at a riding school where it was mandatory.
Eva Brock
YES
I wear mine all the time when riding now. It’s comfy and I’m so used to it I would feel odd without it on. I’m older and after two falls on the road I feel safer wearing one.
Sarah Pressler
NO
Unfortunately not. I competed and rode in the era before they were popular. They were rarely heard of then and when I was forced to wear one I hated it. I had to take it off before I could dismount after cross-country. I do understand the need for them as my teacher and friend, Ian Olding, who was an international Irish eventer, died following a rotational fall, but I just hate them.
Liz Leslie
YES
I always wear my body protector.... my boy is quirky and so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Ashton Marie Davey
NO
No — last time I went cross-country schooling I wore one but that was six years ago. I’m not even sure where it is, to be honest.
Kate Sturgess
YES
I never ride without my body protector and add my air jacket for jumping.
Nicky Bolt
SOMETIMES
I don’t wear one for hacking. I only wear one if doing crosscountry.
Lisa Hayworth
SOMETIMES
Only for jumping or if I go on a fun ride.
Glynwen Mair
NO
No, but as I have two youngsters to back in a couple of years and I am advancing in age I will be getting one.
Cathy Burrows
YES
I have always worn a Point Two air jacket for hacking. It’s light and I hardly notice it. I’ve fallen a couple of times at speed and I was so glad I had it on. I’m not as bouncy as I was when I was younger!
Amanda Barker