Airbag vest, back protector or cross-country body protector: different roles
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“I already wear a back protector — does an airbag still add anything?” It sounds like a logical question, but it places three different types of equipment in the same category even though they do not protect in the same way or at the same moment.
To choose properly, stop asking which one is “best” in absolute terms and understand the exact role of each.
A back protector mainly protects the back
A back protector primarily covers the spine and part of the back. It is light, relatively discreet and provides protection that is present at all times, without a deployment mechanism.
Its limitation lies in its name: it does not necessarily cover the chest, ribs, abdomen or pelvis in the way a full body protector can.
A cross-country body protector provides inherent protection
A body protector conforming to EN 13158 is designed to absorb part of the energy of an impact through its materials, without waiting for separation from the horse.
It therefore also protects in situations where a mechanical airbag may not yet have deployed, depending on the area covered by the protector.
In some competitions, particularly eventing, a specific level of protection may be mandatory. Always check the rules for the relevant season and event.
An airbag creates inflatable protection during a fall
A mechanical airbag works differently. Connected to the saddle, it deploys when sufficient tension releases the mechanism and pierces the CO₂ cartridge. The chambers then inflate around the areas covered by the model.
NF S72-800:2022 is the technical standard specifically addressing inflatable protective garments for riders. It includes requirements and test methods relating to mechanical impacts and the limitation of certain hyperflexion and hyperextension movements of the trunk and spine.
AXION Equestrian airbags are stated to deploy in under 100 milliseconds and cover the neck, chest, back, lumbar region, pelvis and sacrum.
Why does an airbag not always replace a cross-country body protector?
A mechanical airbag must deploy to provide its inflatable protection. If the rider does not separate sufficiently from the saddle, the tether is not connected or an impact occurs while on foot, it does not operate like a rigid protector already surrounding the body.
And when rules require equipment meeting EN 13158 at a specified level, an airbag assessed using NF S72-800:2022 does not automatically replace it. They are different technical references.
Can both be worn together?
Yes, when the model, instructions and competition rules permit it. In cross-country, many riders wear an airbag over their body protector.
The order matters. An airbag designed to be worn on top must be able to inflate without being compressed. Both items must fit together correctly, leave the shoulders free and allow a normal riding position.
Which protection for show jumping?
In show jumping, an airbag is popular because it remains light, follows the silhouette and can cover several zones during a fall while allowing broad freedom of movement.
A back protector can suit someone looking primarily for simple back protection, but it should not be presented as the exact equivalent of an airbag or a full body protector.
And for flatwork or hacking?
Risk is not limited to jumping. A spook, slip, spin or stumble can occur on the flat or outdoors. An airbag can therefore be relevant in everyday riding provided it is connected to a compatible saddle and worn according to its instructions.
The right choice is not always one item
A rider may wear an airbag for show jumping and flatwork, then combine an airbag with a body protector for cross-country. Protection can reasonably be adapted to the discipline.
Key points
- A back protector mainly protects the back.
- A cross-country body protector provides inherent protection and may be mandatory.
- An airbag provides inflatable protection after deployment.
- An airbag does not automatically replace EN 13158 protection when that is required.
- Layering must be permitted, correctly fitted and tested in the complete outfit.
Explore AXION Equestrian airbags.
