Choosing a body protector

Good thinking to wear a body protector. It is a simple way to reduce the risk of serious injury. The type you choose depends a little on what you want to use it for. Here are a few pointers.

1) Body protectors come in different safety levels, Level 1 to 3, with 3 the highest.

2) In Sweden, riders under 18 must wear a body protector when competing in jumping and during the cross-country phase of eventing (where every rider needs an approved protector, whatever their age). To be approved for competition in Sweden, the protector must be Level 3, CE-marked and carry the designation EN 13158. (These competition rules are Swedish Equestrian Federation requirements; UK readers should confirm the equivalent British Equestrian and BETA rules.)

3) The protector should fit you in both length and width. It should not be too long, or it risks knocking against the saddle and can injure your neck if it is pushed upwards. It is worth trying one in a saddle before you buy.

4) If you are not used to wearing a protector, a thinner version can be a good choice, so that you actually wear it and do not feel boxed in.