Airbag vests initially designed for motorcyclists are catching the eye of horse-riders.
The vests, produced by Japanese company Hit-Air, feature an internal airbag that can be activated within half a second when a pull cord attached to the saddle is dislodged.
When inflated, the bag provides protection for the rider’s neck, back, chest, sides and hips. The vests also feature fully adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit.
“We have always supplied motorcyclists with these vests,” Ian Wilson from Wild and Wicked, stockists of Hit-Air vests, told H&H, “but we live in a horsey area, and so took on the equestrian side last month.
“They are not designed for use in competitions, but would be ideal for people out hacking or horse-riding on the roads.”
Hit-Air has recently launched the Hit-Air YS Airbag Vest, a fluorescent vest that combines a high-visibility mesh outer cover with the airbag system, providing high visibility and impact absorption.
“Although they have been designed for motorcyclists, the black version of the vests have already been very popular amongst equestrians,” explained Abi Scott from Two Wheel, stockists of Hit-Air, told H&H.
“We are currently waiting for the hi-visibility version to be certified by CE safety standards for equestrian use, but we think it will be perfect for horse-riders on the roads.”
Hit Air are also developing a new range of horse jackets, specifically designed for equestrian use in competition.
For more information, visit www.twowheel.co.uk or www.wildandwicked.com
