Equestrian accessories on clearance

Airbag vest: how it activates

The airbag vest is connected to the saddle by a strap: when the rider falls and moves away from their horse, the strap activates a trigger that releases a gas cartridge, and the vest inflates in a fraction of a second around the neck, back, and chest. The Helite Zip'In, the Swing P25 Air and the Hit Air, a Japanese pioneer of this technology, operate on this principle. After activation, the cartridge is replaced and the vest is checked before getting back on. In France, the standard NF S72-800 governs this equipment; they are chosen based on chest size, adjusted for winter clothing if riding year-round.

Other sale items

The equestrian clearance also includes:

• Rider.
• Children.
• Shoes.
• Horse.
• Stable/Pre.
• Dog.

All sale items are gathered on the equestrian page.

Back protection: the EN 13158 standard and its three levels

The back protection, or protective vest, absorbs shocks continuously thanks to foam plates that fit the back and torso. It is certified by the European standard EN 13158, which distinguishes three levels: level three, the most protective, is the one used for show jumping, cross-country and training young horses. Models like Harry's Horse or Horka close with zips and side adjustments that fit the vest to the body shape, with specific cuts for female riders. Many cross-country riders layer airbag and back protection, as one does not replace the other.

Whip, dressage stick, spurs: artificial aids

The whip and spurs enhance the action of the leg, without ever replacing it. In show jumping and cross-country, the short whip must not exceed 75 centimetres in international competitions. The dressing stick, longer, like the QHP Spiral and Comfy or the Q-essentials model, allows the rider to touch the horse behind the boot without letting go of the reins; when permitted, international rules limit it to 120 centimetres. The spur straps Metalab secure the spur on the boot and are adjustable to keep it in place at the heel without turning during the ride.

Boot bags, bridle bags and trekking saddlebags

Equestrian gear travels a lot, between the stable, the trailer, and competition grounds. The boot bag LeMieux Luxe protects the leather and prevents dirt from getting on the rest of the luggage. The bridle bag stores the bridle and reins without the bits getting tangled, the saddle pad bag Q-essentials keeps the pads clean and folded, and the helmet bag Premier Equine protects the shell from shocks. For trail riding, the double saddlebags Randol's attach to the back of the saddle and distribute the load on each side of the horse, for carrying picnic, rain gear and first aid kit for a day out.

Frequently asked questions

How to choose the size of riding gloves?

You measure the circumference of the hand at the knuckles, excluding the thumb, then refer to the brand's size guide. The glove should fit the fingers snugly without folds, as excess material can affect the feel with the reins.

What riding gloves for winter?

Winter gloves, such as the QHP Siberië or Force, are lined with an insulating layer while keeping a gripping palm for holding the reins. They should fit snugly to maintain finger sensitivity despite the thickness.

Is the airbag vest mandatory in competition?

Rules primarily require back protection in cross-country, in the form of a protective vest, while the airbag vest is generally optional. Its usage is increasing in eventing and show jumping, where falls are most frequent.

How to maintain leather riding gloves?

They should be dried flat in the air, away from a radiator that hardens the leather, and occasionally conditioned with suitable balm. Synthetic gloves often go in the washing machine at thirty degrees, in a laundry bag.

What is the purpose of an equestrian ear cover band?

The ear cover band, often in fleece like the LeMieux, is worn around the stable and during grooming to keep the ears warm in winter. Thinner than a bonnet, it allows the ponytail to be free and can be tucked into a pocket once mounted.