Choosing The Best Airbag Vest
Airbag vests have become an essential safety innovation in equestrian sports, providing an additional layer of protection beyond traditional body protectors and helmets. Unlike standard body protectors, which rely on microcellular foam, air vests deploy in the event of a fall, absorbing impact and reducing the risk of serious injury.
For riders across all disciplines—whether you’re an eventer tackling cross-country or a leisure rider hacking out—airbag vests offer peace of mind without restricting movement.
How Do Airbag Vests Work?
The concept is simple but effective:
- The vest is securely tethered to the saddle with a lanyard and saddle strap.
- If the rider is ejected, the lanyard detaches, triggering the airbag.
- The vest inflates in milliseconds, cushioning vital areas such as the spine, ribs, pelvis, and neck.
- Once deployed, the vest can be reset with a new CO2 canister, ready for future use.
Helite: A Leader in Equestrian Airbag Safety
When it comes to air vests, Helite is a brand trusted by professionals and amateurs alike. Known for its advanced technology, high-speed inflation, and comfort, Helite vests are CE-certified and meet all safety standards.
If you’re considering a Helite air vest, here’s a breakdown of three of their best models:
1. Helite Air Jacket Airbag Vest
Best for: Cross Country & Eventers
The Air Jacket Airbag Vest is a durable, adjustable air vest designed for show jumpers and eventers who want added protection without bulk.
- Designed for Competition: This model is tailored to fit seamlessly over a show jacket and body protector, making it ideal for disciplines where presentation matters.
- Fast Inflation: Deploys in under 98 milliseconds, offering rapid impact protection.
- Comfortable Fit: Lightweight and designed for freedom of movement, ensuring no restriction over fences.
- Reusable & Easy to Reset: Simply replace the CO2 canister after deployment.
Perfect for riders who want a competition-ready air jacket that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics or safety.
2. Helite Zip’In Air Vest
Best for: Competition and Everyday Use
The Zip’In Air Vest is a flexible, lightweight, and all-purpose air vest that integrates seamlessly with compatible outerwear for a stylish, subtle look.
- 2-in-1 Design: Can be worn alone or zipped into a compatible outer jacket.
- Discreet Yet Protective: Offers full spinal, chest, and pelvic protection while remaining nearly invisible under an outer layer.
- Lightweight & Breathable: Ideal for everyday riding, whether schooling, hacking, or competing.
A great choice for riders who want one vest for everything—whether competing, training, or just enjoying a ride.
3. Helite Hybrid Airbag Vest
Best for: Wearing With a Body Protector
The Hybrid Airbag Vest is a game-changer, combining the benefits of an air vest with additional safety features for high-risk disciplines.
- Compatible with Body Protectors: Designed to be worn over the race-safe body protector, providing the highest level of impact protection without the additional bulk.
- Unrivaled Safety Coverage: Protects the spine, chest, pelvis, and neck, significantly reducing injury severity.
- Ideal for Eventing & XC Riders: Many professional eventers trust the Hybrid Airbag Vest for extra security on cross-country courses.
- Rapid Inflation & Reset: Deploys in a fraction of a second and is easy to reset.
This is the go-to air vest for riders tackling high-speed, high-impact disciplines where maximum protection is a must.
Which Helite Air Vest Is Right for You?
| Helite Air Vest | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Air Jump AirJacket | Cross Country & Eventing | Adjustable fit, competition-ready, ultra-fast inflation |
| Zip’In Air Vest | Show Jumping, Dressage & Everyday Riding | 2-in-1 design, lightweight, integrates with compatible jackets |
| Hybrid Airbag Vest | All-Disciplines & Everyday Riding | Works with body protectors, ultimate coverage |
Final Thoughts
If safety is your priority, investing in a Helite air vest is a smart choice. Whether you need a discreet option for competition, a versatile everyday vest, or the ultimate protective layer for eventing, Helite has a model to suit your needs.
At Redpost, we offer a range of Helite Airbag Vests, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your riding style. Explore our selection today and ride with confidence!
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