That’s right, I’ve had a popsicle headache thinking about my dilemma of buying the right vest for me. After months of trying to wade through the process of how to be “safe” on my horse. I have finally decided where I will be at least on my way to feeling comfortable.
I have been borrowing a friends “safety vest” while I figured the whole thing out. After I had started my research, I realized the vest I was borrowing was not even rated……OMG, I may as well have just ridden in my t-shirt. Well, maybe not that bad, but definitely not the protection I am looking for.
I have read almost everything I could find and talked to absolutely everyone who would humor me with my constant conversation. I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a vest. I decided the only thing I could do was to think about it like I was buying a car. What has the best safety ratings and what would I put my kids in. In the end, it was a no-brainer, I’m going to be riding in a Point Two Hunter Air Jacket.
As you all know, since my accident I’ve had to look at riding in a whole new light. I know there is always a certain amount of risk that goes along with this sport. But having the right safety equipment will at least help protect me more than nothing which is what I was wearing before. I mean, I would never get on my horse without my helmet so now I won’t get on without a vest.
Now, I’m eagerly waiting by the mailbox for my vest. Hopefully, my popsicle headache will go away. I’ll tell you all about it when it arrives and what I think.
Until next time, be safe and kick on!
A couple of people at my barn have those vests. They seem to be good for riding out since they are not as heavy and constricting as the foam ones.
Love this post! Perfect timing. I’m currently looking at the new Tipperary vests for my 2 daughters who hunt regularly. The girls are trained to be very traditional in their attire and are not happy (but understand) the thought of having to wear the vest which may not fit under their tweed. In that case they will have to wear it over.
What are the “thoughts” of the hunt in wearing safety vests over jackets? I would also welcome any input about how you came to the decision you did on your vest. One day I hope wearing safety vests is the “norm” instead of the opposite.
Im eager to hear your impressions. I thought they had to be used with a foam vest, but I guess that is just an eventing rule. Im leary to wear one on a carriage in case I forget to disconnect, and it scares the horses when it goes off!.
I trail ride, fox hunt and event in my Point Two vest. I see more and more people riding in them in the fox hunting world. I have had other fox hunters try to shame me over wearing it but I will not be moved. We all
fall off our horses now and again. The vest does a great job of protecting the middle of your body from many injuries. I strongly urge everyone to consider a vest. The only thing I don’t wear it for is competing in dressage.