New BP Standard

[Rowreach]

I get the 'it's mandatory' rules and if it IS mandatory, I get why the current standard must be worn. I just think bringing out a new standard this year is unfortunate timing, coinciding with a cost of living crisis and a severely depleted calendar. I am not the only person I know questioning whether to bother with eventing next season, and the need for a new BP does factor into those decisions. Among many other things.

But I absolutely cannot get my head around the logic of saying 'you don't have to wear one but if you do it can't be your existing one'. Yes foam degrades but mine still looks pretty new and is still clearly offering a significant degree of protection - even if it is not the same level as a brand new one.

We were planning a few xc training days for the spring, and I can guarantee none of our members will have an up to date BP yet. It would put me off bothering to go to a training day if I have to buy a new one, I don't go xc often enough to make it worth the expense.

 

[Maddie Moo]

My children have them - they seem happy.

I have a champion Ti22 which I find ok the only thing about is it's quite short in the back so if I fall off I always hurt my lower back ie pelvis area as there's no coverage. I understand they cannot be too long because of back of saddle but it's annoying x

That’s interesting about the length, my RaceSafe is short length but I definitely want decent coverage towards my lower back as thats that bit I’ve previously injured!

I might go and try one on and see how the length sits on me, otherwise I guess I’ll be going back to the RaceSafe.

 

[Skib]

You mean you can choose not to wear one at all, but if you do wear one is has to be a new one?!

This could be something to do with ease of release after a fall. My current airowear bp has three parts held together only by velcro at shoulders and sides plus the front zip. If I fall and am knocked out, it would be quick to release the velcro and lift off. Mine is 4 years old so will need replacing.

 

[Zebedee]

I've just emailed BRC for clarification because I don't want to go back to our committee with wrong information, but that would make sense to me that, if worn, they comply to the new standard.

I do find the BRC site annoying, they updated the body protector section recently but have not clarified anything other than that the new standard applies to assessments and "events".

Oh, and Exo Cages (2000 Level 3) are still allowed ...

Old standard BPs have always been allowed where not mandatory.

 

[Zebedee]

Do RCs come under BHS for standards/rules as that would explain it. Ie if the BHS expect x, BRC has to do x too?

BRC is a dept of the BHS.

 

[SilverLinings]

But I absolutely cannot get my head around the logic of saying 'you don't have to wear one but if you do it can't be your existing one'. Yes foam degrades but mine still looks pretty new and is still clearly offering a significant degree of protection - even if it is not the same level as a brand new one.

That makes no sense to me either, unless they could show that older BPs caused injury then surely wearing an older BP is better than nothing? And as you sad previously, the rule means that some people will just will decide not to wear one as they either can't afford a new one or don't want to spend the money on one when there is a way to avoid it.

I understand that for cross country and other situations where a BP is mandatory they are required to be of the new standard, as if not I can imagine we'd still see some people in the awful, bulky foam-with-crotch-strap monstrosities from the 90s

 

[teapot]

That makes no sense to me either, unless they could show that older BPs caused injury then surely wearing an older BP is better than nothing? And as you sad previously, the rule means that some people will just will decide not to wear one as they either can't afford a new one or don't want to spend the money on one when there is a way to avoid it.

I understand that for cross country and other situations where a BP is mandatory they are required to be of the new standard, as if not I can imagine we'd still see some people in the awful, bulky foam-with-crotch-strap monstrosities from the 90s

I'd imagine insurance policies can and will stipulate safety equipment must be up to current standards regardlesss of whether it's compulsory or not because of the possible implications if it ended up as a legal case. x venue admitting they didn't enforce latest safety equipment standards (regardless of whether they're required on the flat for example) probably wouldn't go down too well in court... Yes, a BP is better than no BP (depending on age obviously, something with the 2000 standard isn't going to do much now I don't think) but I can see it from both sides!


I do say that though as someone who regularly had to say no to parents dumping their out of date body protectors in a riding school office 'sure you'll find a use for this'. Actually we won't/didn't - they were binned.

 

[The Xmas Furry]

Do remember it is the BETA 2009 std that is being dropped, the BETA 2018 will still be permitted.
The BETA 2009 std were stopped being made in 2018, so surely many who compete wont have these older ones anyway?

 

[muddybay]

I want to replace my ancient RaceSafe, I’m thinking of the Champion Ti22.

Has anyone got one?

champion gave me awful back pain

 

[humblepie]

Do remember it is the BETA 2009 std that is being dropped, the BETA 2018 will still be permitted.
The BETA 2009 std were stopped being made in 2018, so surely many who compete wont have these older ones anyway?

I was going to post along those lines as anyone who has bought one relatively recently is likely to have a compliant one already.

 

[Zebedee]

@The Xmas Furry , @Reacher , @Rowreach , @Ample Prosecco @SilverLinings @teapot

I can definitely confirm that as far as BRC are concerned if the BP isn't mandatory for the activity then BPs that do not conform to the current required standard can be worn. Those of you who are members of clubs who are insisting that only the approved level of BP may be worn even for activities where BPs aren't mandatory may wish to suggest that the club contacts BRC for clarification.

Hope this helps.

 

[Britestar]

As far as BRC are concerned, they told us about it last year, when the hat standards were changed.
We have promoted to our members since Jan 23. Even gave them a reminder in the run up to Christmas so they could ask as presents if they so desired.

 

[SilverLinings]

@The Xmas Furry , @Reacher , @Rowreach , @Ample Prosecco @SilverLinings @teapot

I can definitely confirm that as far as BRC are concerned if the BP isn't mandatory for the activity then BPs that do not conform to the current required standard can be worn. Those of you who are members of clubs who are insisting that only the approved level of BP may be worn even for activities where BPs aren't mandatory may wish to suggest that the club contacts BRC for clarification.

Hope this helps.

That is helpful, thank you. I will point it out at the next local RC committee meeting.

 

[Rowreach]

@The Xmas Furry , @Reacher , @Rowreach , @Ample Prosecco @SilverLinings @teapot

I can definitely confirm that as far as BRC are concerned if the BP isn't mandatory for the activity then BPs that do not conform to the current required standard can be worn. Those of you who are members of clubs who are insisting that only the approved level of BP may be worn even for activities where BPs aren't mandatory may wish to suggest that the club contacts BRC for clarification.

Hope this helps.

Which is why I said I’ve emailed them for clarification.

 

[Squeak]

Do remember it is the BETA 2009 std that is being dropped, the BETA 2018 will still be permitted.
The BETA 2009 std were stopped being made in 2018, so surely many who compete wont have these older ones anyway?

I do agree with this. It’s a pain and an expense but I have previously not realised how old a body protector is and it was only the change in rules that made me realise.

We’re taught to change hats often so it is possibly just a mindset change that body protectors also need to be changed regularly.

I’m glad they aren’t saying that BP’s need to be up to date for non mandatory situations.

 

[Zebedee]

Which is why I said I’ve emailed them for clarification.

I'm sure you'll get a prompt reply once they are back from the Christmas break.

 

[millitiger]

To agree new standards and then get manufacturers to test costs a lot of money. Hence why hats and BPs don’t update standards very often.

I wasn't very clear.
I didn't mean new standards each year, just a label with year of manufacture rather than/ as well as, year of standard.
Almost like a best before date, related to when it was manufactured.

 

[Orangehorse]

I hope there will be some secondhand ones for sale.

I don't compete but thought that for my advancing age it might be a good idea to get one to wear for hacking a tall horse.

 

[Reacher]

You mean you can choose not to wear one at all, but if you do wear one is has to be a new one?! That is bonkers.

Yes (for SJ /dressage).

Thanks @Zebedee i’ll raise this with our club

@The Xmas Furry , @Reacher , @Rowreach , @Ample Prosecco @SilverLinings @teapot

I can definitely confirm that as far as BRC are concerned if the BP isn't mandatory for the activity then BPs that do not conform to the current required standard can be worn. Those of you who are members of clubs who are insisting that only the approved level of BP may be worn even for activities where BPs aren't mandatory may wish to suggest that the club contacts BRC for clarification.

Hope this helps.

I have found this link to the standards but will email BRC to confirm the new standard isn’t required for disciplines where a BP is not mandatory

Hat Rules and Body Protectors 2023 - British Riding Clubs - Area 1

Information

www.brcarea1.co.uk

 

[Reacher]

Update- I had a reply from BRC:

“Our ruling for qualifiers and championships is that is it only where a body protector is mandatory. For example in dressage qualifiers as it is not a requirement the 2009 label could still be used. For competitions with XC only the 2018 blue label will be accepted.

As clubs are autonomous, they could enforce a stricter rule at their events if they chose to, so you would need to double check with them.”

 

[QuantockHills]

I don't jump or do any XC anymore, but I do TREC..... and if I compete in a 'summer' event, where any of the PTV (obstacles) are 'fixed' (for example, a ditch, step, bank, log, slope etc), then I need to buy a new BP this year (and yes they do check the standard...) it means an extra £150 on top of the £80 entry fee... it's a lot of money for what might only be one event....

 

[Ample Prosecco]

I found one 2nd hand. Hurrah. Exact replica of my current one so should fit fine.

 

[LEC]

Amazon has the best value ones I found and administered by Treehouse so reputable. Just bought an RS2010.
For Champion then it’s Online for Equine or wormers direct who have best value.

 

[MagicMelon]

I cant think instructors have a right to check your BP standard? Perhaps if its pony club, but I wouldnt expect them to be checking fully grown adults as its their own problem if they fall off / what they wear.

I still havent bought a new standard one yet, Im reeling that I have to pay £250 when my current Racesafe looks exactly the same as the new one and has been worn about 8 times so is brand new (only bought it 2 years ago too)! I cannot believe the 2018 version is any safer.

Honestly, I feel they shouldnt set mandatory standards - isnt it up to us as adults to make our own choices? We cant sue BE / BS etc. so why does it really matter to them, or is it just to try and keep injury rates to a minimum so it doesnt damage their reputation.

 

[teapot]

I cant think instructors have a right to check your BP standard? Perhaps if its pony club, but I wouldnt expect them to be checking fully grown adults as its their own problem if they fall off / what they wear.

If it's part of their insurance, or indeed the place they're hiring to teach from's insurance they'd have every right to I think?

Think how it would sound to an insurance company, or indeed in court if someone asked about provision of safety standards and the instructor/coach/trainer turned round and said 'I didn't bother to ask'...

 

[RachelFerd]

My new racesafe turned up today - still fitting into a child's size, albeit XL tall with an extra long back nice saving compared to the equivalent adult one.

 

[TRECtastic]

I don't jump or do any XC anymore, but I do TREC..... and if I compete in a 'summer' event, where any of the PTV (obstacles) are 'fixed' (for example, a ditch, step, bank, log, slope etc), then I need to buy a new BP this year (and yes they do check the standard...) it means an extra £150 on top of the £80 entry fee... it's a lot of money for what might only be one event....

I'm the same re TREC
I don't wear one the rest of the time, only when it's needed for PTV

 

[Ample Prosecco]

Ive bought one 2nd hand. I'm not eventing this year anyway, for other reasons. But at least I have it for the odd XC lesson in case the RI does check.

 

[Afon_34]

My new racesafe turned up today - still fitting into a child's size, albeit XL tall with an extra long back nice saving compared to the equivalent adult one.

Where did you get it from?

 

[maya2008]

I just found my old one and popped it on (have made it to the part of backing where I should probably wear one…). Ugh. Horrible thing. At least now I can justify buying a comfier one despite how little use it will get, because the old one is no longer valid at competitions. Silver linings and all that!