Body Protector Buyer's Guide: Find the Right Protection for Your Ride

A body protector is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you'll ever buy. The right one should fit precisely, meet the appropriate certification standard for your discipline, and use materials that genuinely absorb and distribute impact. This guide compares all active body protectors in our range by certification and materials so you can make a confident, informed choice.

Note: Air vests are covered separately in our Air Vest Buyer's Guide.

Understanding Certifications

Body protector certifications tell you how much impact energy the vest absorbs and under what conditions it was tested. Here's what the main standards mean:

• BETA 2018 / EN 13158:2018 Level 3 — The highest level of equestrian body protection. Required for most affiliated cross-country competitions. Absorbs the greatest amount of impact energy. BETA and EN 13158 are equivalent standards; many vests carry both.
• BETA Level 2 / EN 13158:2018 Level 2 — Moderate protection, suitable for lower-risk activities such as flatwork, hacking, and schooling. Not accepted for affiliated cross-country competition.
• ASTM F1937 / SEI — The primary US equestrian safety standard. Broadly equivalent to BETA Level 3 in impact protection requirements. Required by many US competition organizations.

Our recommendation: For jumping, cross-country, and eventing, always choose a vest certified to BETA 2018 / EN 13158:2018 Level 3 or ASTM F1937/SEI. For flatwork and lower-risk disciplines, Level 2 may be appropriate — but Level 3 is never a wrong choice.

Certification & Materials Comparison

Materials Deep Dive

Not all foam is created equal. Here's how the main construction technologies in our range compare:

• MotionGuard Multi-Foam (RaceSafe Motion3) — A layered, multi-density foam system where each layer is engineered for a specific purpose: absorbing peak impact, distributing force laterally, and maintaining structural integrity. Combined with 100+ individually hinged segments, this is the most sophisticated impact management system in our range.
• Hexagonal Panel / Hex6 Foam (RaceSafe HX3, Evoke Hex6) — Hexagonal geometry distributes impact force across a wider surface area than traditional flat foam panels. The HX3 uses this in a flexible panel format; the Evoke Hex6 uses 280gsm heavy-grade hexagonal foam blocks for a more structured feel.
• SegTek Technology (Champion Ti22) — Champion's proprietary segmented foam system uses ultra-lightweight foam cut into segments that flex independently, reducing bulk and weight while maintaining certified protection levels. The integrated airflow heat release system channels heat away from the body.
• Multilayer Foam (Champion Liber8) — Multiple layers of foam with different densities work together to absorb and distribute impact. The Liber8 range is cut specifically for female anatomy across women's, teen, and children's fits.
• Cordura Stretch Hardshell (Equiline Xcudo) — A hardshell construction using Cordura stretch fabric — known for its durability and abrasion resistance — with a 3D mesh lining for breathability. Unlike foam-based vests, the hardshell profile offers a slim, low-bulk silhouette. Rated Level 2; best suited for flatwork and schooling rather than jumping or cross-country.
• PVC Nitrile Foam (Equitheme Loki) — A durable, reliable foam compound used in a flexible panel construction. Provides consistent Level 3 protection in a straightforward, accessible design.
• 100% Polyester Construction (Ovation Comfortflex) — A polyester-based construction that achieves triple certification (ASTM/SEI, CE Level 3, BETA Level 3), making it particularly well-suited for US riders competing under ASTM/SEI rules.

Fit Matters as Much as Certification

A body protector can only protect you if it fits correctly. Key fit points to check:

• The vest should sit snugly against your body with no gaps at the sides or back
• The bottom edge should not dig into your hips when you sit in the saddle
• You should be able to breathe deeply and raise your arms without the vest riding up
• Shoulder straps (where present) should lie flat without pulling
• Always try a body protector on in your riding position, not just standing

Not sure which size or model is right for you? Contact us for a fit consultation before ordering.