The riding airbag, an essential accessory for the safety of riders

Horse riding is far from being a risk-free activity. Whether you practice it as a sport in its own right or as a simple distraction, keep in mind that one bad fall is enough to put you in a bad state. This is particularly why companies specializing in equestrian safety recommend the use of an airbag during your various activities. Find out more about the history, characteristics and operation of this accessory.

History and development

The riding airbag is a personal protective equipment originally manufactured in Japan. In 1990, the Hit Air company offered the first prototypes and promoted the redistribution of models in dozens of different countries, including France. Since then, the accessory has established itself as a key equestrian safety tool and has continued to reinvent itself to meet the needs of its customers. L'Horse Pilot airbag covers the majority of your body and your most sensitive areas. He is much more versatile than a simple protective vest and complements the standard equestrian helmet well. If you cannot combine it with other pieces of equipment, do not hesitate to use it as a substitute.

How does the riding airbag work?

There riding airbag technology is based on 4 main components: the external texture of the model, the housing supposed to contain the CO2 cartridge, the internal membrane and the integrated airbags. The texture is made from strong and durable materials. It guarantees user comfort and the proper functioning of other components. The CO2 cartridge is activated as soon as the rider risks a bad fall. She diffuses carbon dioxide through the network of internal membranes and triggers the inflation of the cushions. The operation lasts less than two tenths of a second and limits the risks incurred by the rider. The riding airbag is 100% adaptable to the size, shape and preferences of each individual in terms of horse riding. Certainly, choosing a tailor-made model means investing a little more in your equipment. But it is also the opportunity to obtain an accessory capable of saving your life in the majority of horseback riding scenarios.

Benefits of the riding airbag

The riding airbag does not prevent riding accidents. However, several studies and statistics perfectly illustrate there trend positive that its use generates within the industry. All you have to do is visit the sites specializing in the creation of polls and mass surveys to get a more precise idea of the impact of this accessory on horse riding. You can also read testimonials from amateur and professional riders claiming to have avoided serious injury or worse solely because of their riding airbag. Perhaps one of the most popular stories is that of Karim Laghouag, a participant in the Fontainebleau championship (2009) who almost died crushed by his own horse and was saved by his riding airbag.

Tips for Choosing a Riding Airbag

The choice of an airbag is mainly based on two elements. On the one hand, ensure the reliability of your supplier. Prioritize specialty brands like Horse Pilot, Freejump, Spark T or even Helite and provide as much information as possible regarding your order. This guarantees the quality of the final product and its compatibility with your equestrian activity. On the other, opt for a model that is easy to maintain and keep for the long term. Don't worry, the majority of airbags are extremely durable. Just remember to keep the equipment perfectly hung on a hanger and not to crease it, this should be enough in the majority of cases.

Controversies and criticisms

L'riding airbag is one of the best accessories with the riding pants for riders available on the current market. Yet many members of the horse industry continue to highlight its supposed flaws and inadequacies. They complain in particular about average cost of the accessory, its lack of aesthetics and the feeling of discomfort felt throughout its use. They also draw the public's attention to the few cases of false activations, convinced that these isolated incidents prove the unreliability of the airbag. Faced with this barrage of criticism, manufacturers preferred to adopt a simple and peaceful approach. They ignored the unfounded criticisms (cost, aesthetics, etc.) and made a commitment to resolve truly relevant dysfunctions.

The future of the riding airbag

The riding airbag is gradually becoming established as an essential accessory for the smooth running of equestrian disciplines. Given the constant evolution of safety technologies, riders are impatiently awaiting the appearance of lighter, more aesthetic prototypes with more sophisticated systems on the market. Likewise, the institutions responsible for ensuring the safety of riders strongly recommend the use of the airbag in general and require it for certain specific disciplines. This approach demonstrates a certain evolution in mentalities and reduces the risks incurred by players.

Conclusion

L'riding airbag is a very popular safety accessory within the equestrian industry. It protects the rider's vital organs in the event of a fall and considerably reduces the risk of serious accidents during intense or dangerous events. Some may complain about the design and cost of the accessory, but the majority recognize the benefits of the airbag and the importance of its permanent integration in the current security system.