Body Protector
Buying Guide
Choosing your protection
We understand that choosing and buying a body protector can be a daunting experience. Between different disciplines, safety standards and fitting, there’s plenty to consider. This guide will walk you through each step and help you decide which Racesafe body protector best suits you and your riding.
Why choose Racesafe?
Racesafe is a globally established brand at the forefront of making the equestrian world safer and improving performance. Our goal is to offer riders market-leading comfort, breathability and movement, whilst ensuring the latest European and BETA standards of protection. Find out more about our third-generation family business, with a proud heritage of British manufacturing.
Your discipline
The type of riding you do is one of the main factors in choosing a body protector. We work with leading riders in each discipline to meet their rigorous demands and design our models to make this level of performance available to every rider. Each discipline prioritises different body protector features and has a suitable level of protection.
Eventing
Rules & requirements
For the cross-country phase, British Eventing and British Riding Clubs require you to wear a Level 3 body protector. From 1st Jan 2024 they must be certified to the latest BETA 2018 standard. The BETA 2009 standard will no longer be allowed. If an Air Jacket is used for the cross-country phase, it must be worn over (not instead of) a permitted body protector.
These rules are very similar across Europe and we believe Australia and NZ, but contact each governing body individually for confirmation. Even when not required within the rules, using a certified body protector is an important way of guaranteeing suitable protection.
Body protector suggestions
The Motion3, HX3, & RS2010 offer the highest level of BETA 2018 (Level 3) protection combined with unbeatable freedom of movement. Available in an extensive size range.
Racing
Rules & requirements
For race riding in Britain, Ireland and most of Europe, Jockeys are required to wear a body protector certified to a minimum of Level 2 (EN13158:2009/2018). For exercising and working in racing, most yards require a level 3 (EN13158:2009/2018) body protector to be worn.
A BETA 2009 (Level 3) or BETA 2018 (Level 3) body protector must be worn for Pony Racing.
Outside of Europe, Jockeys race riding are generally required to wear a body protector certified to a minimum of Level 1 (EN13158:2009/2018).
Race riding suggestions
For race riding in GB, Ireland and the rest of Europe our recommendation is the latest RaceMotion2. Designed in conjunction with racing authorities and jockeys, MotionGuard technology introduces increased segmentation and multi-foam technology for improved comfort and movement.
For the rest of the world, the RaceMotion1 is a lightweight Level 1 alternative, offering the same MotionGuard technology.
Racing yards & exercise suggestions
The RaceMotion3 offers the highest and often required Level 3 protection in a lightweight, comfortable design. It offers the same sizing and MotionGuard technology as the other RaceMotion models. If you’re after an even lighter model, with the same level of protection, why not try our RaceMotion3 Pro?
For additional sizes, the Motion3 is a great Level 3 alternatives.
Showjumping
Rules & requirements
For many countries in Europe, Junior riders are required to wear BETA 2009/2018 (Level 3) body protectors for showjumping. For other riders they are optional protection.
Body protector suggestions
The RS2010 & Motion3 are the most popular options for showjumping, both certified the latest BETA 2018 (Level 3). The RS2010 features a smart satin outer, available in black and navy blue as standard. A total of 21 colours are available as a custom option. The Motion3 is our lightest and most breathable option, available in a navy net outer.
Back protector suggestions
Suited for limited protection when a body protector is not being worn. The MotionLite offers lightweight back protection with unlimited movement. Designed for a discreet fit under a show jacket, it features slimline protection in a technical gilet design.
Pony Club
Rules & requirements
The Pony Club makes the use of body protectors compulsory for all cross country riding and Pony Racing whether it be training or competing. If a Body Protector is worn for any Pony Club activity it must meet BETA 2018 (Level 3) standard.
Body protector suggestions
The HX3 and Motion3 are our most popular options for Pony Club.
They are lighter than other body protectors of their kind on the market, with a really flexible & breathable design. . Available in a comprehensive size range for children and adults.
For those wanting a full colour range and smart satin outer, we recommend our RS2010 model.
Hacking
Body protector suggestions
For comfort, breathability & protection our top picks are HX3 and Motion3. These models have shown riders of all shapes and sizes that body protectors no longer have to be considered uncomfortable. Available in a comprehensive size range for adults and children.
Back protector suggestions
Suited for limited protection when a body protector is not being worn. The MotionLite offers lightweight back protection with unlimited movement. Designed for a discreet fit under a show jacket, it features slimline protection in a technical gilet design.
Driving
Rules & requirements
Body Protectors are generally compulsory for Marathons and must be suitably certified.
Body protector suggestions
For comfort, breathability & protection our top picks are HX3, Motion3 and RS2010. These models have shown riders of all shapes and sizes that body protectors no longer have to be considered uncomfortable. Available in a comprehensive size range for range for adults and children.
Trec GB
Rules & requirements
The approved standard for body protectors for British TREC is BETA 2009/2018 level 3.
Body protector suggestions
For lightweight, breathable comfort, our Motion3, HX3 and RS2010 are popular options for endurance riders wanting the highest BETA 2018 (Level 3) protection.
Popular models
Motion3
Our ultimate high-performance body protector. It combines greater segmentation, innovative multi-foam technology, advanced breathability, and redesigned sizing for a perfect fit. Suits riders after BETA level 3 protection and the latest movement and comfort.
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HX3
Our latest development in body protection, designed for riders who value comfort, flexibility and adjustability. It suits young riders and adults looking for the highest level of protection at an affordable price point with an ergonomic fit.
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MotionLite
The MotionLite offers lightweight back protection with unlimited movement. Designed for a discreet fit under a show jacket, it features slimline protection in a technical gilet design. Suited for limited protection when a body protector is not being worn.
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VeloAir
The Racesafe VeloAir is a lightweight, slimline equestrian air jacket designed for both everyday riding and competition. Its unisex design and adjustable waistband create a tailored fit that sits neatly over a show jacket, so subtle, it’s almost invisible.
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Advice For...
Rules & requirements
The approved standard for body protectors for British TREC is BETA 2009/2018 level 3.
Body protector suggestions
For lightweight, breathable comfort, our Motion3, HX3 and RS2010 are popular options for endurance riders wanting the highest BETA 2018 (Level 3) protection.
FAQ's
Rules & requirements
The approved standard for body protectors for British TREC is BETA 2009/2018 level 3.
Body protector suggestions
For lightweight, breathable comfort, our Motion3, HX3 and RS2010 are popular options for endurance riders wanting the highest BETA 2018 (Level 3) protection.
