Body Protectors Size Guide

Body protectors are a must-have investment for every horse riding enthusiast. They are expertly designed to cushion your body while riding and are padded to protect you against injuries, including contact burns, bruises, lacerations, and trauma.

Ayr Equestrian’s stylish and practical range of body protectors has been designed to fit and protect every rider from a variety of horse riding risks and injuries. Additionally, they meet the latest international safety standards for body protectors to provide you the peace of mind to ride confidently.

Use our guide to find the perfect size body protector for yourself and your family members.

Measurement Instructions

There are four key measurements you need to take to find the ideal body protector fit:

1. Waist
2. Chest
3. Back Length
4.  Sizing

Start by measuring your waist’s circumference by wrapping a measuring tape around it. Next, measure your chest by wrapping your measuring tape under your arms at the widest part of your chest to identify your size category. 

Measure your back length from the base of your neck to the base of your spine to find the correct protector length. 

Once you have these four measurements, check our protector sizing guides that accompany every product. You’ll find the body protector with corresponding size measurements to keep you safe during all your favourite riding activities.

Fit Guidance

Your body protector should fit snugly around your waist while providing more room around your chest. When it’s fitted, you should be able to breathe deeply without restriction, and your protector should completely cover your rib cage without covering your navel. 

Try bending forward at the waist; if your protector digs into your stomach, it may be too long. Your shoulder straps should sit midway between your shoulders and the base of your neck, and there should be roughly three inches of space between the bottom of your body protector’s back and your saddle cantle.

Adjustments

Body protectors are adjustable, allowing you to use straps to ensure a comfortable fit. When your protector is fitted, check that each strap covers the red marker situated on its Velcro binding. 

If you can still see any red sections when your protector is adjusted comfortably, it may be too small. If all red sections are covered and you feel comfortable and able to move freely, your protector is adjusted correctly.

Safety Considerations

For optimal protection, your body protector should cover your bottom ribs and reach your breastbone. The neckline and shoulders should lay flat against your body and not pull away; if they do, try a shorter length for the safest fit.

Safety Standards

The best body protectors meet safety standards like EN13158 and BETA level 3 standards. 

Body Protector Care Tips

Keep your body protectors in great shape by regularly checking them for permanent dents and visible damage. If they show signs of damage, they may need to be replaced. 

When not in use, store it on a clothes hanger in a dry closet out of direct sunlight. When needed, spot-clean it with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Allow your protector to dry fully before storing it after cleaning to avoid mould and undesirable odours.

FAQs

How often should I replace my body protectors?

Body protectors should be replaced every 3 to 5 years, or when they are permanently dented or damaged.

Why should I replace a dented body protector?

Permanently dented body protectors have lost their impact absorption capabilities and may not fully protect you from injury.

Do children need body protectors?

Riders of all ages, including kids, can benefit from the protection that body protectors provide.