body protectors

[fleabitten]

Who rides in a body protector regularly?

Ive been used to wearing a body protector every time I ride from when I first started riding lessons, so i dont feel it hinders me. I think if i didnt wear one i would feel unsafe.

Ive only ridden without a body protector on Connie, every now and then and once on Princess (dressage test).

I dont want to start a debate on whether you think body protectors are causes or preventions of accidents. Just wondering who all wears one.

I know most adults who have learned to ride without being made to wear one, dont like to use one, except maybe for jumping.

Would you wear one for competition or do you think it looks better not to wear one?

[Jen]

i used to wear one all the time but now i only wear it for jumping as i seriously overheat and i end up taking it off anyway. i think they can prevent injuries but not falls and sometimes they just get in the way.

[dannyboy]

Like you Flea, I've always worn one and don't really think it hinders me too much. It can feel a little ackward / bulky but since my accident in August, I definitely wouldn't ride without one - I'm a real scardy custard tho ;D

[lizziebrandy]

I used to have one, and I felt it held me up, and I felt like a board. I fell of in it once (only ever fallen of twice *touches wood* and have been riding since..well babyness) don't ride in one now as don't feel I need one, and I think it didn't help my overall position.
I think they take time to get used to, and its just what you feel comfortable in.