Body protectors

10 replies

bonzo77 · 08/01/2013 09:39

I wore one as a teenager in the early 90's. it was horrible. But 20 years later they must be better. I'm about to start back riding having had ds2 a month ago (rode until I got pg with him). I just sort of feel I should be more careful to protect myself as a mother to 2 young children now. What are your recommendations for brands/ styles? How much to spend for weekly hacking on over excitable TBs? Occasional small jumps, lots of road work, some galloping. How to ensure the correct fit? I'm back to pre-baby weight / size.

OP posts:

TataClaire · 08/01/2013 09:55

I would get a racesafe one that is fastened in the centre like a jackets and has drawstrings at the sides allowing adjustment and has individual little panels. Im saving for one as I currently have one of the more solid ones that is rather like wearing a sandwich board and although I wouldnt ride without it, makes it harder because it reduces my mobility. So def get one with flexible panelswhatever the brand and make sure it is a suitable level if protection, and be aware that some come with the option of being able to get shoulder protection you can add on too.

Georgia1982 · 08/01/2013 13:40

Air jackets are also becoming more common and I am saving up for one. They can be worn on their own (and do not have the bulky feeling of a body protector as they only inflate if you fall off) or they can be worn over a body protector for extra protection.

Check out Point Two and Hit Air which seem to be the main two brands. They are pretty expensive but my personal view is that you cannot put a price on safety.

I have a Harry Hall 'Zeus' body protector which I basically bought as I was getting back into riding and it was the cheapest level 3 body protector that I could find (and a make I had heard of).

Lovesswimming · 08/01/2013 19:28

Ditto for both posts, I have a racesafe, worth the money as I wear it! Good instead of a sports bra too! I'd have it fitted (contact them I'm sure they'll put in contact) and an air jacket, not inflated it yet to say what it's like! Have come off with the racesafe and I was glad I had it on, watch out for the back being too long they do a shorter version at 5'4 I have the short, my friend had the standard and she's 5'8

MoonlightandRoses · 08/01/2013 22:18

Well, it will depend upon your shape, but another vote for the Racesafe here (and I got XL in the child's size, rather than small in the adult one - makes a difference cost-wise if it fits).
One of my friends got the Airowear Outlyne recently which she finds much better for her (larger chested than me).

hatcam · 09/01/2013 11:14

I have an airowear outlyne too. Uncomfortable before it warms up, but then I don't notice it. Helps if I keep it in the airing cupboard!!

I tried on lots and then bought the most comfortable one that fitted best - some I tried on were obv no use as they were the wrong shape. A bit like running shoes/riding hats - you have to find the that's best for you.

After the fall I had at the weekend I wouldn't be without it - I have bruises almost everywhere other than the bits covered by the back protector!

Pickles77 · 09/01/2013 11:16

I have a racesafe too.
Just be careful to get it fitted right as the bottom spine bit on mine pushed up and then the shoulder bits rise and hit my hat.
So it's been redone.
Hope that makes sense

Original poster

bonzo77 · 09/01/2013 13:07

Sounds like race safe one might not be great for me as I'm 5ft2 and short waisted with f cup boobs on a small frame. I tried on an outlyne one yesterday. It did feel very snug and hot! I'm a bit comforted by the poster who said they did forget about wearing it after a while. The shop did say I could try it and return it if I keep it clean if I can't bear it.

OP posts:

FingoFango · 09/01/2013 13:28

That's a bit gross you can return it as I do sweat a lot in mine!
Maybe try an air jacket which is meant to be less restrictive

MoonlightandRoses · 09/01/2013 14:26

bonzo - I'm also 5'2" (but less norkage) so actually a Racesafe might not be too bad for you - try the children's XL. Snug is good though - you really want it to be a figure hugging as possible.

Lovesswimming · 09/01/2013 15:00

bonzo I'm 5'4 and a 32/34 FF -G!(depending on how much xmas pud I've had) i have a little back compared to my boobs (but have a belly lol) the racesafe fits me well, try them both before you decide. maybe look at the childrens xtra large racesafe (mine is the adult short back, not sure if it would be too long at the back for you at 5'2?) they can alter the back length as well I think if needs be. all the best in your search and let us know which one you go for :-)

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