Bodyprotectors/hats

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10 March 2009
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Having recently unearthed my body protector from the loft I have been told that after a time the foam stuff in them degrades and you should get a new one. If this is so, does it mean the foam stuff in your riding hat ( under the outer shell) does the same ? Or is this just a myth?
 
Sales assistants have told me that in the past. Usually I have taken a tumble before the time ticks on too much so it hasn't been a concern for me. That said, current hat is coming up to 2 years old so I shall prob replace in the next year. Where hats and body protectors are concered I am prob over cautious, but better safe than sorry and all that.
 
Body protectors and hats must be replaced a minimum is every 5 years. This is due to the foam becoming brittle over time, so in a fall the foam in the bp/hat will not absorb the impact. Bp's and hats must also be replaced after any trauma weather it be from dropping or falling onto the item. If you imagine the hat/bp foam is like bubblewrap, once the air pockets have been 'popped' they will not be effective at protecting that same area again. Remember you may not beable to see any damage from the outside. If you make a habit of falling off it can get expensive, but what price do you put on your safety?

There is now a bp on the market that uses a different type of foam (normally used for motorcyclists) called the Kan teq. This does not need replacing after a fall, nor does the foam go brittle, so the lifespan of this bp is unlimited. More expensive than your average bp to buy, but in the long run far cheaper.
 
Thanks for replies. Was going to buy a new bp, but I think my hat must be coming up to 5 years. Damn and blast, thats going to be tres expensive
 
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