Riding helmets went from being optional to an unquestioned piece of essential gear, and for good reason. Now, rider safety technology is taking another major leap forward. The air vest for horseback riding represents this next advancement, offering a level of protection we once only dreamed of. Using a brilliant yet simple system, these vests inflate in milliseconds during a fall to cushion your torso, neck, and spine from impact. This isn't just a passing trend; it's a thoughtfully engineered tool designed to reduce the severity of injuries. We’ll walk you through exactly how they work, compare the top brands, and show you what to consider before you buy.
Key Takeaways
- Understand Its Specific Job: An air vest acts as a personal airbag, inflating instantly to cushion your torso from the force of a fall. Its primary function is to protect against crush injuries, a risk that traditional body protectors don't fully address.
- Layer for Maximum Safety: An air vest is designed to be worn with a traditional body protector, not as a replacement. Combining the two provides comprehensive protection against both direct impact and the widespread force of a hard landing.
- Prioritize Fit and Proper Care: A vest is only effective if it fits correctly and is well-maintained. Always check your gear before a ride, replace the CO2 cartridge after every inflation, and follow the manufacturer's service recommendations to ensure it's ready when you need it.
How Does an Air Vest for Horseback Riding Work?
An equestrian air vest looks like a standard riding vest, but it holds a powerful secret: the ability to inflate in a fraction of a second during a fall. Think of it as a personal airbag for riders. It’s designed to cushion your body during an impact, offering an extra layer of protection when you need it most. The technology is surprisingly straightforward, relying on a simple mechanical trigger to provide near-instant safety. Let's break down exactly how it functions and how it compares to the gear you might already be using.
How Your Vest Inflates in a Split Second
The magic of an air vest lies in its simple, yet brilliant, trigger system. A coiled lanyard connects your vest to your saddle. If you are unseated and separate from your horse, the lanyard pulls a key from a trigger mechanism on the vest. This action punctures a small, replaceable CO2 canister, which instantly releases gas and inflates the vest’s air chambers in milliseconds—literally faster than you can blink. The inflated vest cushions your torso, stabilizing your head and neck while protecting your chest, ribs, and spine from the force of the impact. This rapid inflation is a key piece of modern horse tack designed for rider safety.
Proven Technology Beyond the Arena
The concept of a personal airbag isn't new; it's been a trusted safety feature in high-speed sports like motorcycle racing for years. The equestrian world has adapted this proven technology to address the unique risks riders face. Unlike a traditional body protector that primarily absorbs direct impact, an air vest is engineered to protect against crush injuries and stabilize the torso during a fall. When the vest inflates, it creates a rigid yet cushioned barrier around your vital organs, significantly reducing the force transferred to your body. This innovation represents a major step forward in rider safety, bringing a level of protection to the saddle that was once reserved for the racetrack. It's a smart addition to any rider's collection of essential horse tack.
Air Vest vs. Body Protector: Which Is Right for You?
It’s a common question: Can an air vest replace a traditional body protector? The short answer is no. These two pieces of equipment serve different, but complementary, purposes. A traditional body protector is made of high-density foam designed to absorb impact and reduce the severity of cuts, bruises, and broken ribs. It’s essential for disciplines like cross-country. An air vest, on the other hand, is specifically designed to protect against “crush” injuries, which can happen when you hit the ground hard or if a horse falls on you. For maximum protection, especially in high-risk disciplines, many riders wear an air vest over their traditional body protector.
Busting Common Myths About Equestrian Air Vests
You may have heard discussions about whether air vests are truly effective. Some concerns stem from a study that noted riders wearing air vests had a higher chance of serious injury. However, it's crucial to understand that the study did not conclude the vests caused the injuries. It’s possible that riders in more dangerous situations were more likely to wear them in the first place. The primary function of an air vest remains clear: it is specifically engineered to protect against the dangerous crush forces that traditional foam protectors don't fully prevent. When used correctly, they are a valuable tool for enhancing rider safety, which is why they are among our best-selling products for conscientious equestrians.
How Safe Is an Equestrian Air Vest, Really?
An air vest is a powerful piece of safety equipment, but like any tool, it's important to understand exactly what it does—and what it doesn't do. Knowing its capabilities and limitations helps you make informed decisions about your safety in the saddle. Think of it not as a magic bubble, but as a highly specialized layer of protection designed for specific types of falls. By understanding how it works, you can ride with greater confidence, knowing you've added a significant piece of technology to your safety gear.
How an Air Vest Cushions Your Fall
When you separate from your horse during a fall, the lanyard connecting your vest to the saddle pulls a trigger, instantly inflating the vest before you hit the ground. This rapid inflation creates a firm cushion of air around your torso, chest, neck, and even your jaw. The primary goal is to lessen the impact of a fall and protect your vital organs. This design is especially effective at guarding against "crush" injuries, which can happen if a horse rolls on a rider. It provides a type of protection that traditional body protectors aren't specifically designed to handle.
Performance Metrics to Look For
When you start comparing different air vests, you’ll notice they focus on a few key performance details. This isn't just marketing jargon; these metrics are the core of what makes the vest effective. The two most important factors to consider are how quickly the vest inflates and the total volume of protection it offers once it does. A vest that deploys instantly and provides substantial coverage is one that’s engineered to give you the best possible protection during a fall. Understanding these numbers will help you cut through the noise and choose a vest based on its actual safety capabilities.
Inflation Speed
The time it takes for an air vest to inflate is critical. A fall from a horse happens incredibly fast, so the vest needs to be fully deployed before you make contact with the ground. Top-performing vests inflate in under 100 milliseconds, which is literally faster than the blink of an eye. This incredible speed is what allows the vest to create a protective cushion around your body at the most crucial moment. It’s the difference between the vest absorbing the impact and your body taking the full force of the fall. This rapid deployment is a non-negotiable feature for any effective equestrian safety device.
Protection Volume
Once inflated, the vest’s job is to create a significant barrier between you and the ground. This is where protection volume comes in. Measured in liters, it tells you how large the air cushion becomes upon deployment. Depending on the size of the vest, this can range from 14 to 28 liters of air, creating a substantial buffer that protects your entire torso. This volume is strategically distributed to stabilize your neck and spine while shielding your ribs, chest, and internal organs. A larger protection volume generally means more comprehensive coverage, extending from the base of your skull down to your tailbone.
Understanding the Research and Limitations
It’s smart to approach any piece of safety equipment with a critical eye, and air vests are no exception. You might have come across discussions or even a study suggesting that riders wearing air vests were associated with a higher rate of serious injury. It’s important to look at this finding with context. The research did not conclude that the vests caused the injuries. A more likely explanation is that riders participating in higher-risk disciplines are the ones most likely to invest in advanced safety gear. This creates a correlation, but it doesn't prove the vest is at fault.
The core purpose of an air vest is to offer a specific type of protection that other gear doesn't. While a traditional body protector is excellent for absorbing direct impact, an air vest is engineered to protect against the dangerous crush forces that can occur when a horse falls on a rider. It’s a specialized tool designed to complement, not replace, your existing safety equipment. By understanding its specific role, you can appreciate it as a vital addition to your gear, giving you confidence that you’re covered for a wider range of potential accidents in the saddle.
When Won't Your Air Vest Deploy?
An air vest's deployment depends entirely on the lanyard being pulled with sufficient force to activate the CO2 canister. This means it works perfectly in falls where you are thrown clear of your horse. However, it may not inflate in every situation. For example, in a "rotational" fall where you and your horse go down together, you might not separate enough for the cord to pull and trigger the vest. It's a crucial piece of gear, but it's not foolproof. Understanding this helps you appreciate that no single piece of equipment can prevent all injuries.
Do I Still Need a Body Protector with My Air Vest?
It’s essential to remember that an air vest is designed to be worn with a traditional body protector, not instead of one. In fact, disciplines like eventing require riders to wear a certified body protector underneath their air vest during cross-country. The two pieces of equipment offer a different type of protection. A traditional foam protector is built to absorb direct impact and guard against penetrating injuries like kicks or hitting a sharp object. An air vest, on the other hand, excels at distributing force over a wider area to prevent crushing injuries. Together, they provide comprehensive protection for a wider range of accident scenarios.
Finding the Best Air Vest: Our Top Brand Picks
Choosing the right air vest can feel like a big decision, but the good news is that there are several fantastic, reputable brands dedicated to rider safety. Each one brings something a little different to the table, whether it's a specific fit, a unique deployment system, or a focus on a particular riding discipline. We've spent years working with riders and vetting products, and a few names consistently rise to the top for their quality, innovation, and commitment to protection. Let's walk through some of the leading brands in the equestrian world so you can get a better sense of what's out there and find the perfect match for your needs.
Our Top Picks at Hooves and Paws
Here at Hooves and Paws, we only stock products we’d trust for our own horses and families. When it comes to safety, our standards are even higher. We look for air vests from brands with a proven track record of rigorous testing, thoughtful design, and reliable performance. Our selection reflects the best in the industry, focusing on vests that offer superior protection without hindering your movement in the saddle. We believe safety gear should give you confidence, not hold you back. That’s why we stand behind brands that are as serious about your well-being as you are.
Meet the Brand: Hit-Air
Hit-Air is a pioneer in the air vest world and is well-respected for its extensive research and testing. What sets them apart is their focus on reducing head and body acceleration during a fall, which is critical for minimizing injury. Their designs are often slim and ergonomic, fitting comfortably over your show coat or schooling gear without adding a lot of bulk. Models like the Twist'Air are great examples of their low-profile approach, providing excellent coverage where you need it most. If you’re looking for a vest backed by serious data and a reputation for reliability, Hit-Air is a fantastic choice.
Meet the Brand: Helite
Helite is another top contender, known for its innovative designs and wide range of options. They understand that riders have different needs, which is reflected in their product line. The popular Turtle series, for example, features a semi-rigid back protector on the outside of the airbag, which helps distribute impact forces over a larger area. They also developed the clever Zip'In system, allowing you to wear the airbag liner under different compatible outer shells, from show jackets to schooling vests. This versatility makes Helite a favorite among riders who want maximum safety combined with comfort and style.
Meet the Brand: Point Two
Point Two is a brand that specializes entirely in safety gear, making air vests for both equestrians and motorcyclists. This sharp focus has made them a leader in the field, and their products are consistently praised for their effectiveness. They are known for having one of the fastest inflation speeds on the market, offering near-instant protection when you need it most. Riders often choose Point Two for its reputation as a top-rated equestrian safety gear provider. Their commitment to one thing—protecting riders during falls—shines through in the quality and performance of their vests.
Meet the Brand: Horse Pilot
For riders who prioritize comfort and cutting-edge technology, Horse Pilot is a brand worth exploring. They’ve designed a unique riding airbag that feels light and flexible, allowing for total freedom of movement in the saddle. Horse Pilot integrates advanced tech to ensure the vest is not only protective but also breathable and comfortable to wear for long periods. Their sleek, modern aesthetic appeals to many equestrians who don't want to compromise on style for safety. It’s a great option for the discerning rider looking for a high-performance vest that feels as good as it looks.
Other Brands to Consider
While the brands we've highlighted are leaders in the industry, the world of equestrian safety is always growing. A few other names are making waves with their unique approaches to air vest technology, offering even more choices to help you find the perfect fit for your riding style and safety needs. For instance, Freejump is a popular choice among competitive riders for its focus on high performance and sleek integration. Their vests are designed to be worn discreetly under compatible show jackets, offering top-tier protection without compromising a polished look in the ring. Another innovator is Seaver, which brings a tech-forward approach to safety. Their SAFEFIT air vest can be equipped with sensors that not only detect a fall to alert emergency contacts but also track data about your ride, like jump analysis and symmetry. Exploring these options can help you find the specific features that give you the most confidence in the saddle.
Don't Buy Without This: Checking Safety Certifications
When you're comparing vests, it’s important to check for safety certifications. Think of it as a seal of approval that the vest has been independently tested and meets specific performance standards. The key certification to look for is the SATRA M38: Issue 3 February 2015 air vest standard. According to US Equestrian, this standard ensures the vest's inflation system and components have been thoroughly checked for reliability. Choosing a certified vest gives you peace of mind that your gear is designed to perform correctly in an emergency. Always check the product details for this certification before you buy.
Key Safety Standards to Know
The SATRA M38 standard is the gold standard for air vests, but what does it actually mean? This certification confirms that the vest has passed a series of rigorous tests. Experts check everything from the inflation speed to the reliability of the trigger mechanism and the durability of the materials. You might also see a CE certification, which is a broader European standard indicating the product meets health, safety, and environmental protection standards. Think of these labels as your assurance that the vest isn't just a concept; it's a piece of equipment proven to perform under pressure. When you see these certifications, you can trust that your gear has been thoroughly vetted to keep you safer in the saddle.
How to Choose the Right Air Vest for You
Picking out an equestrian air vest is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Think of it as an investment in your safety and peace of mind. By focusing on four key areas—fit, your riding discipline, budget, and compatibility with your current gear—you can confidently choose a vest that’s perfect for you.
How to Find Your Perfect Air Vest Fit
A proper fit is non-negotiable. A vest that’s too loose won’t offer consistent protection, while one that’s too tight will be uncomfortable and restrict your movement. Start by taking your measurements and comparing them to the manufacturer’s sizing chart. Consider what you’ll wear underneath, as some vests have room for a safety protector while others have a slimmer profile for under a compatible show coat.
Why a Professional Fitting Matters
An air vest is a highly technical piece of safety equipment, and its effectiveness is directly tied to how well it fits. Unlike a regular vest, where a slightly loose fit is just a matter of style, an improper fit on an air vest can prevent it from deploying correctly in a fall. A professional fitting ensures the vest is positioned perfectly on your body, allowing the trigger mechanism to activate properly and the air chambers to inflate exactly where they need to be. Think of it this way: you wouldn't install an airbag in your car without making sure it's in the right spot. The same principle applies here. An expert can help you choose a vest that fits your body correctly so it can do its job when it matters most.
Key Fitting Tips and Signs of a Poor Fit
When you're trying on an air vest, pay close attention to a few key details to ensure you get the right size. A correctly fitted vest is the first step toward riding with confidence. If you notice any of these issues, it’s a sign you need to try a different size or model. Here’s what to look for:
- Snug, But Not Restrictive: The vest should lie close to your body without feeling tight or limiting your range of motion. You should be able to comfortably move your arms and twist your torso.
- Proper Length: When you’re sitting in the saddle, the bottom of the vest should clear the cantle. If it’s too long, it can get pushed up while you ride, which could interfere with its performance during a fall.
- No Major Gaps: Check for significant gaps between the vest and your body, especially around the shoulders and chest. If the vest shifts around easily, it’s too big and won't provide consistent protection.
- Consider Your Layers: Always try on an air vest with the clothing and body protector you plan to wear underneath. A vest that fits perfectly over a thin shirt will be too tight when worn over a bulky safety protector.
Choosing a Vest for Your Riding Style
Air vests are no longer just for eventing; they’re now popular across many equestrian sports. The best vest for you depends on your riding style. An eventer has different needs than a dressage or trail rider. Consider the demands of your discipline and look for a vest designed with those needs in mind, as many brands offer specific models for hunter/jumper, dressage, and western riding.
Recommendations for Eventers and Jumpers
Eventers and jumpers both need serious protection, but their specific requirements differ. If you’re an eventer tackling solid cross-country fences, you’ll want maximum coverage and a structured feel. A vest like the Helite Zip’In Airbag Vest II is an excellent choice, as it’s designed for robust protection. Brands like Point Two are also popular in this discipline, known for their singular focus on safety and incredibly fast inflation speeds. For jumpers who need to maintain agility and a close contact feel, a lightweight, less bulky option is often preferred. The Hit Air All New Original Lightweight SV3 Vest is a great example, offering top-tier protection without restricting your movement over fences. It’s all about matching your horse tack to the specific demands of your sport.
Recommendations for Beginners and Young Riders
For young riders, a proper fit is the most critical factor. It’s tempting to buy something they can “grow into,” but a vest that is too large won’t deploy correctly. Never put a child in a small adult vest; instead, look for models designed specifically for them. The Hit Air Kids Pro3 Air Vest is a fantastic option because it’s built for a child’s proportions and can be adjusted as they grow. For riders who are new to air vests or want something simple for schooling, ease of use is key. The Spark Zip Up Air Vest is a user-friendly choice that makes gearing up straightforward. At Hooves and Paws, we believe safety should be accessible for every rider, which is why we stand by products that are both effective and easy to manage.
Finding an Air Vest That Fits Your Budget
An air vest is a significant investment, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. Set a budget before shopping and remember to account for the ongoing cost of replacing CO2 cartridges. While it’s a sizable purchase, view it as a long-term investment in your safety. At Hooves and Paws, we carry a range of best-selling products that offer proven quality and value for dedicated riders.
Specific Price Ranges and What to Expect
It’s helpful to think of an air vest as a true investment in your safety. Prices can vary quite a bit depending on the brand and technology, but you can generally expect to find quality vests ranging from around $400 to over $800. For instance, a highly regarded model like the Horse Pilot Twist'Air Airbag sits in the upper end of that range, valued for its ergonomic design and reliable performance. Other popular options, such as the Helite Zip'in Airbag Vest, are also a significant but worthwhile purchase. When planning your budget, remember to factor in the ongoing cost of replacing the CO2 cartridges, since you'll need a new one after every inflation. Understanding the full cost upfront helps you make a confident choice that aligns with your safety goals and your budget.
Does Your Air Vest Work With Your Body Protector?
It’s crucial to know how an air vest works with your other equipment. An air vest does not replace traditional body protectors. Eventers, for example, must still wear a certified body protector underneath for cross-country. If you wear a show jacket over your vest, make sure it’s compatible. A tight jacket can prevent proper inflation, so look for jackets with special stretch panels designed to accommodate a vest.
Wearing Your Air Vest with a Show Coat
One of the most common questions riders have is how to wear an air vest in the show ring without sacrificing a polished look. The rule is simple: always wear your air vest over your regular riding clothes, but it can be worn under a show coat if—and only if—the coat is specifically designed to be "air vest compatible." These jackets are made with special stretchable fabrics and seams that expand when the vest inflates, preventing the jacket from ripping and ensuring the vest can deploy correctly. Choosing to wear an air vest is a personal decision, but if you compete, pairing it with the right jacket is essential for both safety and style.
Compatible Jacket Brands
Thankfully, you don't have to sacrifice style for safety. Many top equestrian apparel brands now offer lines of air vest-compatible show coats. Brands like Helite have even created integrated systems, such as their Zip'In airbag, which is designed to be worn discreetly under an approved outer jacket. When shopping, look for labels that explicitly state the jacket is "air vest compatible" or "airbag compatible." This ensures the garment has been tested to work seamlessly with your vest, giving you a clean, traditional look in the show ring without compromising the vest's life-saving function.
Understanding Warranties and Guarantees
An air vest is a significant investment in your safety, so it’s important to know it’s backed by a solid warranty. Most manufacturers offer a standard two-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Many brands, like Helite, will even extend that warranty to four years if you register your airbag online after purchase—a simple step that adds extra peace of mind. Here at Hooves and Paws, we add another layer of confidence with our 365-day satisfaction guarantee. We believe in the products we sell and want you to feel completely secure in your purchase, knowing that both the manufacturer and our family-owned business stand behind your gear.
Your Air Vest Care and Maintenance Checklist
Think of your air vest like any other critical piece of safety equipment—it needs a little TLC to perform at its best. Proper maintenance ensures your vest is ready to protect you when you need it most. Taking a few simple steps to care for your vest will extend its life and give you peace of mind every time you swing into the saddle. Just like you regularly clean and inspect your other horse tack, making vest care a part of your routine is a smart habit for any rider. A well-maintained vest is a reliable one, and these simple guidelines will show you exactly how to keep yours in top form for years to come.
How to Perform a Pre-Ride Safety Check
Before each ride, give your vest a quick once-over. Check the fabric for any rips or tears, look at the stitching, and make sure the clips and zippers are working smoothly. Pay close attention to the lanyard and the saddle attachment, ensuring they are free from wear. After a fall where your vest inflates, a more thorough inspection is essential. According to US Equestrian, you should check it carefully for any signs of damage before riding with it again. This simple pre-ride check takes only a minute but is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your vest is ready to go.
How to Safely Replace the CO2 Cartridge
This is a non-negotiable: once your vest deploys, the CO2 cartridge is empty and must be replaced. These cartridges are designed for a single use. The good news is that swapping it out is usually a simple process of unscrewing the spent canister and screwing in a new one. Always use the exact size and model of cartridge recommended by your vest’s manufacturer, as using the wrong one can cause it to malfunction. I always recommend keeping at least one or two spare cartridges in your tack trunk or trailer. That way, an unexpected inflation during a schooling session or at a show won't put an end to your ride.
How to Properly Clean Your Air Vest
After a long ride, it’s natural for your vest to pick up some dust and sweat. Keeping it clean is simple, but there’s one golden rule: never submerge it in water or put it in the washing machine. Doing so can damage the internal airbag system and compromise its ability to inflate. Instead, stick to spot cleaning. Use a damp sponge or towel with a bit of mild soap to gently wipe down the exterior. For drying, simply place it on a hanger in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. This straightforward routine will keep your vest in great shape without risking its safety features.
Practical Considerations: The Deployment Sound
The first time an air vest deploys, the sound can be surprising. It’s a loud, distinct pop as the CO2 canister is punctured and rapidly releases its gas to inflate the vest. Knowing what to expect is helpful, as it’s simply the sound of your safety equipment working exactly as it should. Familiarizing yourself with this sound can help you stay calm in the event of a fall, recognizing it as a sign of protection rather than another cause for alarm. It’s a powerful reminder that your vest is on the job, cushioning your fall in a fraction of a second.
How to Store Your Vest to Extend Its Life
How you store your vest matters. Keep it in a dry, temperature-controlled environment, away from direct sunlight. Hanging it on a sturdy hanger is ideal, as this prevents creases and protects the internal airbag system. Avoid cramming it into a crowded tack trunk where it could get snagged or damaged. When it comes to cleaning, skip the washing machine. Instead, use a dry brush to remove loose dirt and dust, then wipe it down with a damp cloth. Harsh detergents and chemicals can degrade the vest’s material and compromise the safety components, so simple is always better.
How Long Does an Air Vest Last?
Even with perfect care, an air vest won't last forever. Most manufacturers recommend sending your vest in for professional servicing every one to two years to ensure the trigger mechanism and airbag are in perfect working order. It's also recommended to send it in for service after it has inflated around six times, or after any particularly serious fall. Even if you can't see any external damage, the impact could have affected the internal components. Think of it like a riding helmet—a hard impact means it’s done its job and needs to be professionally checked or replaced to ensure it can protect you again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need my regular body protector if I have an air vest? Yes, you absolutely do, especially for disciplines like cross-country. Think of them as two different specialists on your safety team. Your traditional foam body protector is designed to absorb direct impacts and protect you from things like kicks or hitting a sharp edge on a jump. The air vest excels at protecting you from crushing forces if you have a hard fall or if a horse rolls on you. They work together to provide the most comprehensive protection possible.
What happens if I forget to unclip the lanyard before I get off my horse? This is a super common concern, but you can relax. The vests are designed to only deploy with a significant amount of force—usually around 50 to 60 pounds of pressure. If you simply forget and start to dismount, you'll feel a strong, unmistakable tug on the lanyard reminding you to unclip. It’s highly unlikely that just stepping down from the saddle will be enough to set it off.
How do I know which CO2 cartridge to buy after my vest inflates? After your vest deploys, you must replace the CO2 cartridge. Each vest model requires a specific size and type of cartridge to function correctly, so it's crucial to use the one recommended by the manufacturer. You can usually find this information printed on the old cartridge or in your vest’s user manual. Using the wrong one can cause your vest to fail, so always double-check that you have the right replacement.
Are air vests only for eventers? Not anymore! While eventers were the first to widely adopt them, riders in many other disciplines now use air vests for an added layer of safety. You’ll see them on show jumpers, trail riders, and even some dressage and western riders. As the technology has become more streamlined and comfortable, more equestrians are choosing to ride with that extra peace of mind, no matter their discipline.
How often should I have my air vest professionally serviced? Even if you never have a fall, it's a good idea to send your vest to the manufacturer for a professional check-up every one to two years. They will inspect the internal airbag and trigger system to ensure everything is in perfect working order. Most brands also recommend sending it in for service after it has inflated about six times, or after any particularly serious fall, just to be safe.
When to Replace Your Air Vest
It helps to think of your air vest like a riding helmet. After a serious fall, it has done its job and needs a professional inspection, even if it looks completely undamaged on the outside. The force of an impact can affect the internal trigger system or the airbag in ways you can't see. As a rule of thumb, most manufacturers suggest sending your vest in for a full service every one to two years, just to keep it in top condition. It's also a good idea to have it checked after about six deployments or any particularly hard fall. This kind of routine care is a crucial part of owning any piece of essential horse tack and ensures your vest is always ready to protect you.
