I’ve tried on several vests and owned a couple styles as well. What I REALLY dislike is how short they are in the front. I’m pretty average, size 8, b-cup, 5’6" tall. I hate how short the fronts of vests are. I’m assuming there is a good reason? Most seem to end on me right below the ribs and they my “soft center” we will call it is um, pronounced which I really can’t stand! I’m not “fat” by any means, but not “fit” there either! Does this happen to anyone else? And as a nurse, I know there are things worth protecting a bit lower on my abdomen, so why not go a little lower than my diaphragm area? Or am I just not choosing the right vest and fit?
I’d think a fair bit of the design has to do with the fact that you need to fold at the hips to ride and jump?
[QUOTE=normandy_shores;8177905]
I’d think a fair bit of the design has to do with the fact that you need to fold at the hips to ride and jump?[/QUOTE]
Yes. Most vests are designed to be used while galloping and jumping in a tucked position. Having extra material hanging down to your waist could interfere with flexibility and movement. Also, keep in mind the ability to “tuck and roll” in the event of a fall. A vest that makes your body too rigid could make you land awkwardly.
[QUOTE=normandy_shores;8177905]
I’d think a fair bit of the design has to do with the fact that you need to fold at the hips to ride and jump?[/QUOTE]
Yup. That said, it’s not impossible that you are long in the torso and need one that comes in tall or custom.
The Tipp ones are longer and will go to your belt, but they are not approved. I have a Racesafe and it is also short in front; but not as much as some others that I’ve tried on.
I agree it seems like a kick to the abdomen could do a lot of damage. I think a design with some kind of bendable/flexible material below the rib cage might work.
My cheap-o vest comes down much further than the fancy new (ASTM-approved) Tipp I just tried on. The Tipp came up too high on my neck and ended too soon above my waist, I thought. My Flex Rider is more or less equal front and back except for a “tailbone flap” that extends a bit lower behind.
I have a tougher time balancing my beer between my thighs if my vest is too long. Really gets in the way.
According to 2 different fitters, the vests are designed to protect your ribs and therefore are supposed to end just below them.
I’m guessing that’s the reason?
I have the same problem… so I feel ya! LOL… The vests could easily be a few inches longer in front on me and not interfere with mobility. I blame it on my boobs.
[QUOTE=Meadow36;8178174]
The Tipp ones are longer and will go to your belt, but they are not approved. I have a Racesafe and it is also short in front; but not as much as some others that I’ve tried on.
I agree it seems like a kick to the abdomen could do a lot of damage. I think a design with some kind of bendable/flexible material below the rib cage might work.[/QUOTE]
Only if you have a very short torso! Neither of my Tipps go to my belt - there is about 4-5 inches of space (basically the length from the top of my hip bone to the bottom of my last rib) exposed, and both of mine are tall/long.
And though my new and very much loved KAN was custom cut on the rear for me - the front only comes in one length (well, maybe can be cut but that wouldn’t help me!). So it comes to my last rib as well but leaves room for the stomach “pooch” over fences (our pictures galloping look fine of course). I could use a few more inches of coverage! :lol:
I agree, the Tipps are very short in the front on me, and I have been told I have a longer torso. Anyone have suggestions on a vest that comes down a bit longer in the front?
They are not supposed to come down low in the front. They should stop just after your rib cage. They unfortunately are not help to keep in the gut but are supposed to just protect your rib cage and vital organs (that your rib cage protects). They should come down lower in the back but not so low as to get in the way with the saddle.
What you can do is wear control top panties or other things to help keep the gut place better. Trust me…I keep doing more sit ups and starving myself…but once you hit 40…it is really hard to keep it all in!!!
There is a reason I like high waisted breeches…
