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Safety is paramount in the saddle and should always be the main focus. When purchasing equipment, it is essential to ensure that products are certified and meet safety standards. Proper size and fit are equally crucial for safety. Fashionable gear that offers little protection is of no use. For example, all riding boots should have a 1.5 cm heel and a relatively flat sole. In contrast, stable boots may benefit from a tread to prevent slipping. Specialized riding gloves provide better grip on the reins and are especially important for riders handling multiple horses per day, helping to prevent blisters and fatigue. In winter, it is also wise to switch to warmer gloves made from modern materials that do not restrict movement.
From Head to Hoof: Essential Safety Gear for Riders and Horses
A properly fitting riding helmet is naturally essential. Fortunately, almost all riders now wear helmets, unlike 10–20 years ago, when skipping them posed significant risks. For many years, the VG1 standard succeeded the old 1384 standard. In 2023, the new EN 1384:2023 standard was introduced, and most helmets on the market today are certified to this standard. When choosing a helmet, individual factors matter, such as lightweight materials, good ventilation, or strap positioning around the ears. The chin strap should allow normal jaw movement; if two fingers fit between the chin and strap, the fit is correct.
The so-called “shake test” confirms a helmet’s proper fit. With the chin strap open, the rider moves their head side to side, leans forward, and imitates the motion of the head while trotting. If the helmet stays in place, it fits well and is suitable for the wearer.
Modern helmets may also include MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System), originally developed for ski and bicycle helmets. This system helps protect the wearer, especially in oblique falls involving rotational forces, reducing the risk of head and brain injuries.
Not only amateur and young riders but also many top riders now wear safety and airbag vests in show jumping. Every safety vest should meet the European standard EN 13158, Level 3. Special vests are required for cross-country riding over fixed obstacles. Thanks to improved materials, these vests are now more flexible and comfortable to wear. Protective elements are usually made from special foam or high-tech materials.
Properly fitted horse equipment also contributes to safety. Whether saddle or bit, individual adjustment is always recommended. For those on a budget, it helps to have multiple people check if the saddle and bridle fit correctly or if the horse shows signs of discomfort. Ill-fitting saddles or bridles can cause injuries or behavioral issues, both of which are safety risks.
Safety While Riding
Every rider should be prepared for unexpected situations in the saddle. Staying attentive on the horse’s back allows quicker reactions in emergencies. Several safety rules should also be followed. For example, riders should avoid dangling jewelry, which can cause serious injuries if caught. Before each ride, both the horse’s equipment and the rider’s gear should be carefully checked.
Riders should also tune in to their horse before riding. Consider whether it makes sense to warm up longer at a walk or use a lunge line if the horse is overly excited. Pay attention to whether the horse is tense or has more energy than usual, and adjust accordingly. When riding outdoors, ground conditions on both the arena and trails should be considered, especially in autumn and winter, when rain, ice, or frozen surfaces can create hazards. Careful handling during leading is essential.
Fall training can be very beneficial for both children and adults and is increasingly offered in riding schools. Training should be age-appropriate, considering the child’s motor development. Adults, who are usually less agile than children, also require special guidance. Certified courses from the German Equestrian Federation (FN) support instructors in teaching these new techniques safely.
When riding outdoors or on public roads, special rules apply and demand full attention. Riders must inform themselves about local rules before heading out. If paths are shared with pedestrians, approach cautiously, as you cannot predict others’ reactions.
For personal safety, it is also wise to be aware of special circumstances such as construction sites or hunting areas beforehand. Proper behavior in traffic and seasonal or weather-related safety measures are equally important.
According to the German Road Traffic Regulations (§17 StVO):
Riders must be sufficiently visible during dusk, darkness, or poor visibility (e.g., fog, snow, rain). A non-blinding white light must be carried on the left side, visible forward and backward. Additional reflective leg bands on the horse and reflective clothing on the rider are highly recommended, as well as a boot light on the left.
Airbag Vests: An Innovative Solution for Increased Safety
Not only amateurs and young riders, but also many top riders now wear airbag vests in show jumping, while in eventing, they have long been standard. These wearable airbags reliably protect the spine and chest in the event of a fall, offering a level of protection beyond a traditional safety vest. Rider Ingrid Klimke recommends testing the vest without a horse first to become familiar with how it feels when deployed.
While traditional safety vests protect via built-in foam or high-tech pads, airbag vests rely on inflation to provide maximum protection. With a volume of approximately 14–24 liters, they shield the neck, spine, chest, pelvis, tailbone, head, collarbones, and internal organs. Importantly, the vest does not restrict movement and allows full freedom of motion while riding. They can be worn easily over a regular riding jacket without causing discomfort.
The trigger, or lanyard, of the airbag vest is attached to the saddle. Accidental activation—for example, by forgetting to detach the lanyard when dismounting—is virtually impossible, as it requires a force of 30 kg (300 N) to deploy the airbag. In an emergency, a CO₂ cartridge is activated, inflating the airbag within milliseconds and protecting the rider before they hit the ground.
A riding helmet is always important whenever you get on a horse—and also when handling your horse in the stable or on the way to the pasture. It should always be worn in the stable, as a kick can happen quickly. Of course, the risk of falling and injury is even higher when riding outdoors on uneven terrain.
Introduce new equipment step by step, just as you would with any tack. Whether it’s a new saddle, bit, leg wraps, bandages, or reflective gear, always give your horse time to adjust, as new things can be intimidating. Place the new gear carefully and pay attention to how your horse reacts, ensuring it feels as safe and secure as possible. Guidance from an experienced trainer can also be very helpful.
A shift in thinking about safety has taken place. Safety vests and protectors are important because, as Olympic champion Ingrid Klimke emphasizes, “Safety should always be the focus when working with horses.” Every movement a horse makes is incredibly powerful, so even blows to the head—especially for children—can cause serious injuries. Wearing a safety vest, helmet, and sturdy shoes is strongly recommended in the stable for both children and adults. While safety vests cannot absorb all impacts, they reliably protect the back, torso, and internal organs such as the spleen and liver.
The well-known “Maria strap”, attached to the front of the saddle, provides extra support to the rider, particularly beginners or when riding young horses in challenging situations. Newer versions, such as a special red strap, are available together with a matching breastplate. The safety rein gives the rider support when needed and, through its connection to the breastplate, helps regain control over the horse.
Safety stirrups offer various release mechanisms or prevent the foot from slipping through. Some stirrups feature four-way joints that move in all directions, reducing the risk of getting stuck. Non-slip treads also ensure a secure foothold in the saddle.
The author
Born in 1983 in Mühldorf am Inn, I discovered my passion for writing, culture, horses, and travel early on. After graduating from high school and earning a B.A. in Cultural Studies, I began my journalism career in 2007. My article on Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum's European Championship victory received multiple awards. Since then, I have written for over 30 specialist magazines, contributed to book projects such as Selected Stallions of Germany, and managed PR campaigns. Additionally, I focus on travel journalism, including my series Tournament Hopping.
Alexandra Koch
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