HAT & BODY PROTECTORS
If you would like either a hat or body protector fitting, please call us on 01432 850885 to make an appointment.
We are currently taking appointments for Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Due to Covid 19 and the safety of our staff and other customers, can you please ensure you are wearing a mask. Thank you.
Our Trained Team
Hats and body protectors will not protect unless they are properly fitted.
Our team of trained hat & body protector fitters are always available in store to help with fitting and will go through steps with you to ensure you leave well protected. We will walk you through the different styles on offer and try on several different types in order for you to asses comfort and for us to check the fit.
Whether you’re planning to go eventing, about to back a young horse or just going out for a ride, consideration should always be given to head and body protection.
What’s the best body protector for you?
• Level 1 - provides the lowest level of protection that is only considered appropriate for licensed jockeys. Level 1 is designed to meet the weight restrictions that apply to professional jockeys whilst racing.
• Level 2 - offers a lower than normal level of protection. It is considered suitable for general riding in very low risk situations and for professionals such as licensed jockeys when specified by their racing authority or regulatory body.
• Level 3 - is considered appropriate for general riding, competitions including eventing and working with horses. Level 3 body protectors should prevent minor bruising that would have produced stiffness and pain, reduce soft tissue injuries and prevent a limited number of rib fractures.
Make the most of your body protector
Body protectors should be replaced at least every three to five years, after which the impact absorption properties of the foam may have started to decline.
If you should have a heavy fall, your body protector should be checked immediately for dents. The foam will expand back to its original shape within 30 minutes; but if a dent is showing on examination, then it’s likely that this part of the garment has lost its impact absorption properties and should be replaced.
Hidden damage that a body protector may have sustained is also a good reason for avoiding second-hand garments or those with unknown histories. Taking good care of your body protector means that it will last longer within the three to five year recommended lifespan. So don’t leave it lying around at the yard or in the lorry to be chewed and trodden on. Spending too much time in a hot car or damp tackroom won’t do it any good either.
When not in use, body protectors should be hung on a clothes hanger. Doing up zips ensures they keep their shape, while closing Velcro fastenings will help prevent them becoming clogged with horse hair and hay particles.
Most body protectors are made from heat sensitive PVC nitrile foam, which is why they feel increasingly comfortable as they soften and mould to the wearer’s body. So try storing your protector in a warm (but not artificially hot) environment to ensure it’s nice and flexible for that early morning ride.
Free Fittings
When you buy a hat or body protector from us, its safe in the knowledge that you can call in as many times as you need for a free fitting check.