Rider Safety Week Spotlight: Protecting Your Core with Safety Vests

Every rider knows that falling off is part of the sport—but serious injuries don’t have to be. While helmets protect the head, body protectors and air vests safeguard the spine, ribs, and vital organs in the event of a fall. Whether you’re eventing, jumping, trail riding, or even just schooling, wearing a protective vest dramatically reduces the risk of life-altering injuries.

This Rider Safety Week, we’re highlighting two trusted options: the Charles Owen JL9 Body Protector and the Hit Air Vest. Both are designed to give riders confidence and protection, while offering comfort that won’t hold you back.

🔹 Charles Owen JL9 Body Protector (Adult & Child)

Shop the JL9 Body Protector →

The Charles Owen JL9 is a traditional foam body protector designed to offer maximum shock absorption without sacrificing comfort.

• High-Level Protection: Certified to the latest safety standards, offering reliable impact absorption in the case of falls or kicks.
• Flexible Gel Foam: Unlike stiff protectors, the JL9 molds to the body with gel-foam technology, providing both safety and comfort.
• Ventilated for Comfort: Lightweight and breathable, ideal for long rides or competition days.
• Adjustable Fit: Shoulder and waist straps allow a custom fit for both adults and children.
• Ideal For: Eventers, jumpers, riders in lessons, or anyone looking for reliable everyday torso protection.

🔹 Hit Air Vest (Medium, Black)

These Hit Air Vests are part of our consignment collection, but they’ve never been used. Each vest comes complete with a refill CO₂ tank, so you’re ready to ride with confidence right away. It’s the perfect chance to get advanced airbag safety technology at a great value.

Shop the Hit Air Vest →

The Hit Air Vest represents the next generation of rider safety, offering lightweight comfort with advanced airbag technology. Instead of foam panels, the vest inflates instantly in the event of a fall to cushion the rider’s torso, neck, and spine.

• Airbag Technology: Deploys in less than 0.25 seconds after a fall, protecting the chest, back, and neck.
• Lightweight Design: Comfortable enough to wear over a show coat or training shirt.
• Reusable: Replace the CO₂ cartridge after deployment and you’re ready to go again.
• Freedom of Movement: Worn over a lightweight base layer or body protector for added protection.
• Ideal For: Eventers, foxhunters, or riders who want maximum torso and neck protection without bulk.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose the JL9 Body Protector if you need certified, always-on protection, especially for young riders or eventers competing at regulated levels.
• Choose the Hit Air Vest if you want lightweight comfort with maximum protection in serious falls, and you’re okay with the higher upfront investment.
• Best of Both Worlds: Many riders wear both—a foam body protector for certified coverage, with an air vest layered on top for enhanced impact and neck protection.

Why Protective Vests Matter

Falls happen fast, and even experienced riders aren’t immune. Body protectors and air vests:

• Absorb and distribute impact to reduce injury severity.
• Protect the spine, ribs, and internal organs.
• Provide confidence so riders can focus on performance, not fear of falling.

For young riders, body protectors like the JL9 offer an affordable and effective entry point. For advanced riders, adding an air vest like the Hit Air offers next-level protection.

Final Thoughts

Every rider deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing they’re protected. The Charles Owen JL9 Body Protector and the Hit Air Vest are both excellent investments in your safety, whether you’re jumping fences, riding trails, or enjoying a casual hack.

This Rider Safety Week, ask yourself: Do I have the protection I need if the unexpected happens? If not, now is the perfect time to upgrade.