Using an airbag vest while riding provides additional safety, but correctly setting, reactivating and maintaining your equestrian airbag vest is essential to ensure it works optimally. In this blog I will provide an overview of the steps you need to follow to properly use and maintain your vest, including helpful videos that clarify the processes.
Step 1: Setting up your airbag vest
Adjusting your airbag vest is crucial for proper operation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure the vest fits properly and the airbag can be deployed correctly.
How do you set an airbag vest?
Make sure to keep the following in mind while setting up:
- Fit: The vest should fit well, but not be too tight.
- Screwing on cartridge: Is the fit good? Then screw the cartridge into the holder.
- Attachment to the saddle: Connect the vest to the saddle correctly using the supplied cord or lanyard. Test the length of the cord to ensure that you can move comfortably without unnecessary airbag deployment.
Below you will find a handy video that explains step by step how to properly attach the saddle strap of an equestrian airbag vest to your saddle:
Step 2: Reactivating after a fall
After a fall where the airbag has been deployed, the vest must be reactivated by replacing the CO2 cartridge. This is a simple but important step to ensure that the vest is functional again.
Reactivating your airbag vest
Watch the following video which clearly explains how to reactivate the airbag after a fall:
Follow these steps:
- Check the vest for damage after the fall.
- Unscrew the used CO2 cartridge.
- Unscrew the screw head at the bottom with the supplied Allen key and remove the screw head and the spring. Now press the trigger pin down with the long side of the Allen key. You can then replace the ball. Replace the spring and screw at the bottom and then tighten them. If necessary, watch the video a few times to take the steps in the correct order.
- Insert a new cartridge of the correct size. This is very important. Too little content will not allow the vest to inflate sufficiently. Too much content will cause the internal pockets to tear and make your vest unusable.
Step 3: Maintaining your airbag vest
To extend the life of your airbag vest, regular maintenance is necessary. This includes cleaning the vest as well as checking the mechanism and cartridge.
Maintenance tips
Watch this video for a detailed explanation of how to maintain your vest:
Important maintenance points:
- Cleaning: Use a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust, and avoid harsh cleaning agents.
- Storage: Store your vest in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. And hang it on a hanger. This will keep it fresh longer.
- Regular check: Inspect the system regularly, especially after intensive use. Check that the lanyard and mechanism are free of wear.
Conclusion
An equestrian airbag vest can be a lifesaver when riding. By adjusting the vest correctly, reactivating it correctly after a fall and performing regular maintenance, you ensure that the vest continues to protect you in dangerous situations.
Do you have any questions or would you like to see more videos ? Let me know! Safe ride!
