Amazing Resources On Selecting The Correct Body Protectors
Although horse riding is not one of the most dangerous activities, you should be aware of the risks. By being adequately prepared, you can cut those risks down significantly. By selecting the right tack or gear and always making sure that you wear the right clothing, you can cut down the chances of being injured in an accident. Toward the top of your list should be the purchase of a horse riding body protector, and it’s irrelevant what type of horse riding you are planning, as your protection should be paramount no matter how casual you may be.
The more headstrong among us may want to compromise when it comes to our protection here, but we should never be tempted to go our own way whenever it comes to horse riding safety. We know that young people tend to question the need for what they see as “excess” protection, but here again, we should never underestimate the risks associated with horse riding. Look for a body protector that has been sanctioned and approved and is also functional while being comfortable. An ill fitting or uncomfortable item will significantly detract from your enjoyment and, let’s face it, you will be tempted to “forget” it during your next ride.
Generally, body protectors are separated into different types, according to the purpose and level of protection in various situations and types of competition. By and large, they have various levels of protection and the most appropriate for almost all circumstances is the “purple” label body protector. Always use this type of protector for day-to-day riding and for most types of competition, as it is designed to help you avoid those minor injuries and maybe even some fractures if you should fall. The “brown” level of protection is indicated for very low risk riding situations and certainly not for jumping or for riding on roadways or hard surfaces. The “black” level is only indicated for licensed jockeys taking part in competitive racing.
The production of body protectors is carefully monitored and they must be made to high standards, as regulated by the European Union under what is known as the BETA 2000 Standard. Wear tight fitting clothing when you are being measured for these items and note that they can be worn underneath outerwear during colder times. To measure correctly, go from the front beltline over the shoulder to the back beltline and then also around the waist and the chest. Fitting a body protector is almost as involved as being fitted for a good suit, but you should pay careful attention here as we can determine that there’s more at stake!
Do not be tempted to lend your body protector to anybody else and look after it well. It is highly unlikely that it would fit another person as well as it does you and safety is a definite risk; you may never know if the item is impacted in some way when the other person is using it either, leading to its degradation. Just as you would with a racing hat or a helmet, change the body protector if it is impacted in any way or if there is any sign of damage whatsoever. Together with your racing hat, the body protector is your main element of defence in the unfortunate event of an accident.
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