Equestrian Clothing | Equestrian Clothes

Safety is tantamount when riding your horse so you should never go out riding without a body protector. 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. While you want to look stylish with the latest equestrian clothing you also want to stay safe. You can find an extensive range of riding body protectors at Countrywide, but check out some of our recommend picks below:

Light weight foam and have a breathable inner lining. With tough velcro straps, or laced closure. Available in a number of sizes from a child size small to a large adult. The measurements you require are the chest size in centimeters. The waist size in centimeters and the over the shoulder in centimeters.

Just Togs Body Protector (£65)

Many riding centres and competition centres now insist on a body protector not only for showjumping and cross-country but also for schooling, lessons and hacking. We’ve chosen this one as our first addition. We really like the comfort, styling and colour but most importantly, it meets all the safety standards required.

Airowear Adult Body Protector (from £100)

Maximum protection - fully meets EN 13158: 2000 and BETA Standard 2000 Level 3. Tabard styling - easy to put on and take off. Shoulder and waist adjustments - hook & loop fastenings for quick and easy secure closure. Secure belt close for extra safety and security.

Charles Owen Young Riding Hat (£105.99)

Maximum protection - fully meets EN 13158: 2000 and BETA Standard 2000 Level 3. Shoulder and waist adjustments - hook & loop fastenings for quick and easy secure closure. Elastic/webbing side straps for a perfect fit. High quality Airotech lightweight ventilated foam - twin layers mould comfortably to the body for a cool, breathable and flexible garment.

Riding Body Protectors 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 with no road work and not for show jumping, breaking in or schooling of young horses.

Level 3 Purple label - appropriate protection for most riding including cross country,competitions and general day to day activities. Level 3 will help to reduce soft tissue damage and bruising.

Hard shells are made of a variety of light and strong materials, and depending on the brand you buy, this could be fibreglass, carbon fibre, or a lightweight injection moulded plastic shell.