Body protectors again

[pistolpete]

Hi all I know this has probably been discussed at some point but looking into alternatives to air jackets and very rigid body protectors. I’ve seen some slightly less bulky ones available that seem like a good idea for back and rib protection at least. I’m not going cross country any time soon just getting a bit older and more risk aware. Anyone have any recommendations? Thanks.

 

[SpotsandBays]

I love the RaceSafe provent. They’ve not long ago brought out a lighter version which I think is supposed to be less bulky, however I’ve got the standard one and it’s definitely the most comfortable one I’ve ever worn

 

[SpotsandBays]

Ignore me, the new one is a hybrid air jacket. Still rate the provent 3 though!

 

[Skib]

As I have posted before. You need to try them on with a proper fitter as, in spite of claims, not all brands fit all people. I wear airowear and race safe dont fit me. Plus I prefer a bp with separate closures for bust and lower ribs. That is harder to manage on bps which lace up the sides.

 

[Rowreach]

If you are not going to be competing you'll be able to find a lot of old standard but perfect condition body protectors out there for very little money. I've got an immaculate Racesafe (very comfortable) that's hardly ever left the wardrobe but is now useless to me because I need the new standard, and a brand new with labels attached Harry Hall one. Find out what fits you and then have a look on Marketplace etc.

 

[pistolpete]

I have an ancient racesafe but it catches on the back of the 17 inch saddle so useless now.

 

[humblepie]

They do short back ones. I recently bought a new one though and interestingly my previous one was short and new one is standard and the same length so possibly short ones not made now

 

[Skib]

If you are not going to be competing you'll be able to find a lot of old standard but perfect condition body protectors out there for very little money.

But old are unlikely to be in perfect condition since the foam is said to deteriorate after 4 years and definitely needs relacing after 6 years. There should be a date of manufacture somewhere on the garment.

 

[Jambarissa]

I bought the newest racesafe and it's great. I was between sizes in the previous racesafe so surprised it fit me.

As ever don't judge it as soon as you put it on, wait for it to warm up.

 

[Rumtytum]

I have Racesafe too, it’s good. Professionally fitted then I sat on a special saddle thing in the tack shop to check it didn’t catch on the cantle.

 

[HopOnTrot]

I’ve just replaced a 15+ year old Racesafe with a new one.

If you aren’t competing there are several brands selling “motorbike style” back protectors that are slim and lightweight.

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I couldn’t find one to try locally so I ended up going with a new Racesafe in the end.

 

[pistolpete]

Yes this is the sort of thing I was wondering about.

 

[teapot]

Yes this is the sort of thing I was wondering about.

Think it's worth reading what it won't protect you against https://www.charlesowen.com/products/the-shadow


The new Racesafes, Champions etc are super flexible, and for the Racesafe alone, come in so so many fits/lengths you'll find something that'll fit you for sure

 

[Rowreach]

But old are unlikely to be in perfect condition since the foam is said to deteriorate after 4 years and definitely needs relacing after 6 years. There should be a date of manufacture somewhere on the garment.

Like I said, mine are both perfect, hardly worn, kept indoors in a dry wardrobe, and have never had a fall. I'm not suggesting anyone goes and buys a tattered squashed sweaty BP that's been chucked in the corner of a damp tackroom for the past few years, which is what causes degradation of the foam and is why it is recommended to replace them after x amount of years. A little common sense comes into play here ...

 

[Marigold4]

Like I said, mine are both perfect, hardly worn, kept indoors in a dry wardrobe, and have never had a fall. I'm not suggesting anyone goes and buys a tattered squashed sweaty BP that's been chucked in the corner of a damp tackroom for the past few years, which is what causes degradation of the foam and is why it is recommended to replace them after x amount of years. A little common sense comes into play here ...

What size is your Racesafe BP please?

 

[Rowreach]

What size is your Racesafe BP please?

I'm hanging on to it for the moment because I need to decide whether to spend £200+ on a new one for the rare occasions I go somewhere that will require it, or just miss those things in future. I may never use it (only used it once iirc) but I'll probably want to if I part with it

 

[Skib]

I think foam deteriorates over time even if not worn. My tack shop told me I didnt need a new bp now but would in two years time,i.e. when the foam was 6 years old. As for protecting just ones back, that is fine if one falls on ones back. Last time I fell, I landed on my side and my elbow went into my ribs because strictly speaking my bp is now slightly too small..