Body protectors are designed to absorb impact from a fall or kick from a horse, and will not protect fully unless they are properly fitted. Compulsory for some equestrian competitions, they must cover all the correct areas of the body while remaining comfortable and without restricting rider movement.
Before You Start…
- You will ideally need a soft tape measure (or a string and a ruler), a belt, and your saddle.
- Make sure you are wearing a single layer (such as a t-shirt or base layer) when measuring.
- Make sure to pull the tape measure taut to replicate the snug fit of the body protector.
- Keep in mind that a correctly fitting body protector should feel snug but not restrictive, allowing for freedom of movement while still providing adequate protection.
How To Measure
CHEST: To determine the ‘starting size’ you require, measure your chest around the widest part, just under your armpits. With the tape tight, breathe in and out, and take the average of the two measurements.
OVER SHOULDER: Pop a belt around your waist, so that it sits snugly just below your bottom ribs. The belt helps to identify where the body protector front length should come down to, to ensure your ribs are covered, and to measure to a level point on your back.
Place the start of the measuring tape on the top of the belt, just beside your belly button. In a straight line, take the tape over the top of shoulder, and down to the top of the belt on your back. Note the measurement.
BACK LENGTH: Sitting as you would in the saddle, find your C7 vertebrae (the knobbly one you can feel) at the base of your neck, and measure down the middle of your back to where the body protector will finish. Aim for a good hands width clearance to the seat of the saddle.
The perfect back length is a combination of good lower back protection with enough clearance for a full range of unrestricted movement.
We’ve got your back! If you have any questions or would like help with choosing the right size, please get in touch with our Trained Specialists who will be pleased to help.
Email: info@redpostequestrian.co.uk | Phone: 01803 812040
Local to our Totnes Store? Why not book a free, no obligation body protector fitting at a time that suits you! Find out more HERE.
