Maintaining and storing your equestrian air vest will prolong its life and help ensure its proper function.
Ideally, store your vest in a temperature-controlled area. You can also store it flat or folded neatly in half. Don't just ball up your vest and throw it in your trunk willy-nilly.
Regularly inspect your zippers to make sure that they are zipping well and look at your seams to make sure that nothing is busted, especially after a deployment.
Spot clean your vest with a damp towel or sponge to keep your vest clean between rides. You can also use a helmet deodorizer to help keep your vest fresh. Never submerge your vest. There is now a cleaning foam designed specifically for air vests, Hey Active Airbag Cleaner.
Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for inspection and service to catch any issues with your vest before something bad happens. Just like a helmet, you should replace your vest every three to five years; the more you sweat and the more you use it, the more frequently you should replace it.
Stay safe out there!
