Airbag Vest for Horse Riding: Complete Guide, Prices, and Brands 2026
The airbag vest is the biggest revolution in equestrian safety in recent years. In a fall, it deploys in milliseconds, protecting the neck, torso, and spine. This guide explains how it works, what models are available, and how much they cost.
How Does an Equestrian Airbag Vest Work?
The equestrian airbag vest works using a tether connected to the saddle's attachment point. When the rider falls and separates from the horse, the tether pulls a firing pin that activates a CO2 cartridge. In less than 0.1 seconds, the vest fully inflates, enveloping the neck, shoulders, lower back, and ribs with air chambers that absorb impact.
Difference from Traditional Protective Vests
| Feature | Classic Protective Vest | Airbag Vest |
|---|---|---|
| Lumbar protection | Limited (foam) | Excellent (air chamber) |
| Neck protection | None | Excellent (air collar) |
| Activation | Permanent (passive) | Only in a fall (active) |
| Weight | 1.5-2.5 kg | 0.8-1.5 kg |
| Price | 60-200€ | 300-700€ |
| Recharge after fall | Not necessary | CO2 cartridge (8-20€) |
Types of Airbag Activation
Mechanical Airbag (Tethered)
The most common type. The vest is connected to the saddle by a short cable (30-50cm). When the rider falls and separates from the horse, the cable activates the inflation mechanism.
- Price: 280-450€
- Advantages: reliable, no battery, economical to maintain
- Disadvantages: cable can get tangled, does not work if not connected
Electronic Airbag (Smart)
Uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to detect a fall without a cable. Activates the airbag only when it detects real fall patterns.
- Price: 450-900€
- Advantages: no cable needed, does not activate on false alarms, fall data recorded
- Disadvantages: requires battery charging, higher price
Main Airbag Vest Brands for Equestrian Riding
| Brand | Country | Price | Activation Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Helite | France | 350-550€ | Mechanical Cable |
| Point Two | United Kingdom | 400-650€ | Mechanical Cable |
| Hit Air | Japan | 280-400€ | Mechanical Cable |
| Vimele | Spain | 350-450€ | Mechanical Cable, CE |
| Eventer | France | 500-800€ | Electronic |
Safety Certification
In Spain and Europe, equestrian airbag vests must comply with standard NF S72-800:2022 to receive CE marking. This standard, specific to equestrian airbags, guarantees that the vest activates correctly and provides the promised protection.
Always verify that the vest you purchase has the CE marking and the NF S72-800 standard.
Is the Airbag Vest Mandatory in Competition?
The FEI has progressively increased the requirements:
- Cross Country (Eventing): The airbag is mandatory for 2* and higher categories since 2023
- Show Jumping: Recommended but not mandatory at amateur level
- Dressage and lessons: Not mandatory but highly recommended
Is the Airbag Worth the Investment?
Clinical studies show that equestrian airbags reduce cervical and thoracic injuries by 60-80% compared to conventional vests. If you ride regularly, do cross country, or work with young horses, the investment is more than justified.
Consult our catalog of equestrian vests to see the available options. For more information on equestrian safety, visit our helmets section.
