Body Protectors
Horse Riding Protector

From: Equestrian Clothing

Body Protectors
These are compulsory for eventing and cross country riding and are recommended for jumping, hacking, riding on the road, breaking in youngsters, racing and any time where you feel it necessary.

Body protectors offer some protection in the event of a fall or accident. They consist of an outer shell which fits to help protect the shoulders,rib cage and and back area and are labeled in levels according to the activity to be done.

Construction
Light weight foam and have a breathable inner lining, with tough velcro straps or laced closure. Some Body Protectors also have shoulder protection pads which can help protect against shoulder injuries.

Sizes
Range from a child size small to a large adult. The measurements you require are the chest size in centimetres. The waist size in centimetres and from the waist over the shoulder and back to the waist is also in centimetres.

Colours
Body protectors are now available in a wide range of colours to suit and can often be ordered especially.

Safety Standards
They are approved by BETA in the United Kingdom and are put into levels as a guide to their useage:

Level 1 Black label - very light and are appropriate for race jockeys, they offer the lowest amount of protection.

Level 2 Brown label - appropriate for low risk situations such as light hacking. Brown label are not advised for road work and not for show jumping, breaking in or schooling of young horses.

Level 3 Purple label - appropriate protection for most riding activities including show jumping and cross country competitions and also general day to day activities such as hacking. Level 3 will help to reduce soft tissue damage and bruising.