Lightweight Safety Vest?

[Always_WIP]

I just had a fall this weekend where the horse I was riding spooked, bolted and bucked and I went splat onto the ground. I’m fine but my back is very sore/stiff and it’ll probably take a couple of weeks before I’m 100% with my riding.

While I have a safety vest to use for XC, it’s super stiff and bulky. It’s beta 3 rated and it really seems like overkill to use on the flat and honestly gets in my way a bit (Airowear Airmesh). But I’m also really not a fan of having two weeks of suboptimal riding after a fall.

I’m wondering if there’s a vest out there that is lighter weight but could still provide some back/rib protection. Something that I could use even on the flat without it getting in my way. Anyone have recommendations or ideas?

[Jealoushe]

I love my Champion Titanium. While it looks bulky, it is not bulky at all. By far the most comfortable vest I have ever worn.

Racesafe also makes a lightweight vest I have heard good things about.

[anon40672407]

Have you considered an inflatable? I haven’t yet involuntarily inflated mine, but it’s neither bulky nor too hot. I’m hoping, in the event of a fall, that it’ll shield me somewhat from the sticks and rocks.

Use something. Just saw on Facebook that an old friend of mine (Excellent rider, upper level dressage after years of eventing) took a header off someone else’s bad actor, and has many bones to heal. She’s also ex Pony Club so had her helmet on – good thing!

[Heinz_57]

A Tipperary (or similar) would probably do fine if you don’t want to spend a fortune. Very light and flexible.

[outerbanks77]

I have a RaceSafe now with the mesh, and it’s way more comfortable than the Charles Owen or AiroWear before them. For something even lighter, one of the RaceSafe jockey vests would probably fit the bill, but honestly, I forget I’m wearing the one I have, which is beta 3, IIRC.

[Always_WIP]

Thanks for the recommendations! I’ve been looking at the Champion Titanium - it looks so much more flexible even though it’s beta 3. And the race safe looks like a good option too.

[Jealoushe]

@Always_WIP

Thanks for the recommendations! I’ve been looking at the Champion Titanium - it looks so much more flexible even though it’s beta 3. And the race safe looks like a good option too.

It is honestly by far the most comfortable vest to ride in, miles above Tipperary. It is the first vest I have owned that I dont dread wearing on XC.