When it comes to riding, safety is more than just wearing a helmet. Body protectors and airbags have become an essential part of equestrian gear, whether you’re in the dressage arena, tackling showjumping courses, or galloping across a cross-country field.
But with so many styles — and safety levels — it can be hard to know which is right for you or your young rider. Here’s a simple guide to understanding the differences between level 1, level 2, and level 3 body protectors, plus how airbags fit into the picture.
What do the levels mean?
Body protectors are tested to strict European safety standards (like EN 13158:2018 and EN1621-2), which determine how much impact they can absorb. The level tells you the degree of protection:
|
Level |
Typical Use |
|
Level 1 |
Low-risk riding, such as flatwork or schooling. Minimal protection. |
|
Level 2 |
Designed for general riding, showjumping, or hacking. Good impact protection with freedom of movement. |
|
Level 3 |
The highest standard, required for cross country and eventing. Offers maximum protection against falls and kicks. |
Level 1: Lightest protection for dressage or flatwork
If you’re schooling or riding where the risk of a serious fall is low, a level 1 body protector might be all you need.
It’s the kind of protection that lets you relax into each stride, feel the swing of your horse’s back, and truly enjoy the harmony of flatwork.
For kids, the Komperdell Ballistic Vest Junior Bodyprotector 6321 provides a lightweight layer of back protection that’s easy to wear, perfect for flatwork, cavaletti or cross-rails.
Caption: Komperdell makes lightweight options perfect for young and adult riders schooling at home or in the arena.
Level 2: Perfect for showjumping & general riding
Level 2 body protectors are the sweet spot for most riders — they balance impact protection with unrestricted movement.
There’s something quietly exhilarating about knowing you’re protected — it frees you to ride boldly, take that inside turn, and let your horse’s power shine.
They’re popular for both showjumping and day-to-day riding.
- The Airowear The Shadow Backprotector is a favorite for riders who want something hidden under a show jacket. It’s fully flexible, machine washable, and certified to motorcycle standard EN1621-2-2014, protecting your spine while letting you fly over fences.
- Komperdell Ballistic Flex Fit Slim models offer a smart fit with automatic width adjustment and breathable materials. They’re extremely lightweight and adapt to your movements, ideal for long days in the saddle.
- For riders who want a modern look with serious safety, the Charles Owen Eclipse Body Protector combines a sleek silhouette with RE ZRO® impact protection. Adjustable straps keep it snug, while premium fabric means it looks great on show day.
Caption: Level 2 body protectors balance freedom of movement with impact protection — ideal for showjumping.
Level 3: Required for cross country & eventing
When you’re galloping over solid fences, safety isn’t optional. Level 3 body protectors are required for cross country phases because they offer the highest level of impact protection, wrapping around the ribs and internal organs.
It’s the kind of armor that lets you focus on your line, trust your horse’s stride, and fly over those imposing fences with heart-pounding confidence.
- The Airowear Outlyne II stands out for its gender-specific fit, so women, men, teens, and kids all get a protector that actually follows their shape — not the other way around.
- Komperdell Equestrian Level 3 protectors come in slim and regular fits, offering 360° all-around protection in a lightweight design.
- The Gatehouse Superflex 2.0 Body Protector is a top choice for riders who want a contoured design with serious shock absorption, using ergonomic cell construction to give a close fit without restricting movement.
What about airbags?
Airbags like the Helite Zip’In 2 are revolutionizing equestrian safety. They inflate in just 100 milliseconds to protect your neck, back, pelvis, and chest before you hit the ground.
You can wear them alone under an approved compatible jacket or zipped into a dedicated outer for a seamless look.
Caption: Airbags inflate in milliseconds to protect your neck, back, pelvis, and chest during a fall.
But many riders ask:
Can you wear an airbag with a body protector?
Absolutely. In fact, for the best of both worlds, riders often wear a level 3 body protector close to the body, then put the airbag vest on top.
This means even if the airbag fails to inflate, you’re still covered by solid foam protection.
Just remember: airbags are incredible for rotational falls and absorbing big impacts, but they work best when combined with a standard body protector, especially for cross country.
Ready to ride confidently?
No matter your discipline or level, investing in the right body protector or airbag is one of the smartest decisions you can make — for yourself or for a young rider in your family.
👉 Explore our full range of body protectors & airbags at HorseWorldEU and ride with confidence, style, and serious peace of mind.