The Best Equestrian Air Vests: Reviews, Fit Tips, and How to Choose
Michelle DrumEquestrian air vests have become an increasingly trusted part of modern riding safety, offering added protection to your neck, spine, and torso when a fall occurs. As technology has evolved, today’s air vests are lighter, more comfortable, and more adaptable across disciplines than ever before. Still, not all air vests are created equal, and choosing the right one depends on how you ride, where you ride, and what you need from your equipment.
This guide breaks down some of the best equestrian air vests available right now, with a focus on real-world fit, function, and rideability so you can make an informed choice and ride forward with greater confidence.
Quick Comparison: Best Equestrian Air Vests
Looking for a quick way to compare today’s top equestrian air vests? This table breaks down key differences at a glance, before we dive into detailed rider reviews below.
| Air Vest | Best Features | Deployment | Areas Protected | Best For |
| 1. Helite Zip’In Airbag Vest II | Modular zip-in design, structured feel, excellent coverage | Mechanical tether; fast, decisive inflation (<100 ms) | Neck, spine, chest, lower back | Eventers and riders prioritizing maximum protection |
| 2. Hit Air All New Original Lightweight SV3 Vest | Lightweight, breathable, flexible through shoulders | Mechanical tether; rapid inflation (90ms) | Neck, spine, torso | Jumpers and riders wanting minimal bulk |
| 3. Hit Air Kids Pro3 Air Vest | Youth-specific fit, adjustable for growth, durable | Mechanical tether; reliable inflation (250ms) | Neck, spine, chest, lower back | Young riders and growing equestrians |
| 4. Freejump Airbag Vest | Streamlined, competition-ready design with structured protection | Mechanical tether; controlled, quick inflation (98ms) | Neck, spine, chest, back, torso | Performance-focused jumpers and event riders |
| 5. Spark Zip Up Air Vest | Easy zip-front entry, straightforward setup | Mechanical tether; consistent inflation (200ms) | Neck, spine, torso | Riders new to air vests or schooling use |
| 6. Seaver SafeFit Airbag Vest | Sleek modern design, close-to-body fit | Mechanical tether; fast inflation (<200ms) | Neck, spine, torso | Riders wanting a refined look with balanced protection |
How We Evaluated These Air Vests
Air vests are one of those pieces of gear where the details matter. For this guide, we evaluated each vest the way riders actually experience them: how they feel once you’re mounted, how seamlessly they fit into your existing setup, and how much confidence they inspire ride after ride.
Rather than relying on spec sheets alone, we focused on performance in motion and practicality in real equestrian life.
Protection and deployment
We paid close attention to how quickly and consistently each vest inflates, and—just as importantly—where that protection is delivered. Neck stabilization, spinal coverage, and overall structure after deployment matter far more than inflated volume alone. A vest should feel decisive and supportive in a fall, not loose or uneven once activated.
Fit and ride feel
An air vest only works if you’ll actually wear it, and that comes down to comfort. We evaluated how each vest sat on the body, how it moved through the shoulders and hips, and whether it stayed balanced in two-point, over fences, and during flatwork. The best designs fade into the background once you’re riding, without restricting position or mobility.
Ease of use
Daily usability mattered more than we expected. Ease of putting the vest on—especially over show coats—simple adjustments, and straightforward CO₂ replacement all factor into whether a vest becomes part of a rider’s routine or stays in the tack room. For kids’ vests, adjustability and growth accommodation were especially important.
Learn why safety vests are so important for young equestrians →
Discipline
Some designs clearly favor maximum protection for cross-country riding, while others prioritize a streamlined profile for jumper or hunter rings. Rather than naming one “best” air vest overall, our goal was to identify which vests excel in specific situations, disciplines, and rider stages.
Our Top Equestrian Air Vest Picks
The air vests below represent a cross-section of the most trusted options riders are using right now across disciplines, ages, and riding styles. Each one brings something different to the table, whether that’s maximum coverage, a discreet profile under a show coat, or adjustability for growing riders.
1. Helite Zip’In Airbag Vest II
Best for: Riders who want modular protection with maximum coverage
The Helite Zip’In II is a go-to for riders who prioritize protection without sacrificing balance in the saddle. Its zip-in design creates a secure, integrated feel when paired with compatible Helite outer shells, making it especially popular for eventing and higher-risk riding.
Protection coverage is robust, with strong stabilization through the neck, spine, chest, and lower back once deployed. Compared to lighter-profile vests like the Hit Air SV3 or Penelope Airlight, the Zip’In II offers a more structured, confidence-inspiring feel—particularly noticeable at speed or over solid fences.
Choose this over slimmer options if maximum coverage and stability matter more to you than a barely-there profile.
Deployment time: <100ms
CO2 cartridge: Helite Safety Vest Replacement Co2 Canisters
2. Hit Air All New Original Lightweight SV3 Vest
Best for: Riders who want lightweight protection with minimal restriction
The SV3 is one of Hit Air’s lightest, most rider-friendly designs, appealing to those who want protection without added bulk. Its open, breathable construction allows for easy movement through the shoulders and hips, which jumper riders in particular tend to appreciate.
When compared to the Helite Zip’In II, the SV3 trades some structure for comfort and airflow. It still offers reliable neck and torso protection, but feels less substantial once inflated, which is something riders either love or notice immediately.
Choose this if you want an air vest that feels unobtrusive during daily rides and warm-weather schooling.
Deployment time: 90ms
CO2 cartridge: HitAir Safety Vest Replacement Co2 Canisters
3. Hit Air Kids Pro3 Air Vest
Best for: Young riders stepping up their safety gear
Built specifically for children, the Kids Pro3 delivers scaled-down protection without overwhelming smaller riders. Coverage includes the neck, spine, chest, and lower back, with dependable deployment timing comparable to adult Hit Air models.
Compared to adult lightweight vests like the SV3, the Kids Pro3 prioritizes adjustability and durability over ultra-slim styling. It’s designed to grow with the rider while maintaining a secure, confidence-building fit.
Choose this over an adult vest sized down if you’re shopping for a child. Fit and balance matter too much at this stage to compromise.
Deployment time: 0.25s
CO2 cartridge: HitAir Safety Vest Replacement Co2 Canisters
4. Freejump Airbag Vest
Best for: Performance-driven riders who want advanced protection with a streamlined fit
Unlike ultra-minimal show-focused designs, this vest is more structured and perfect for eventers and show jumpers.
Once deployed, the vest stabilizes the neck and spine while protecting the chest, back, and torso. Riders often note that it feels secure without being bulky, maintaining freedom through the shoulders and allowing a natural position in the saddle. Deployment is fast and controlled, reinforcing confidence during higher-risk phases.
Compared to lighter-profile options like the Hit Air SV3, the Freejump Airbag Vest feels more substantial once inflated. When weighed against Helite’s Zip’In II, it offers a sleeker silhouette with slightly less overall volume, appealing to riders who want protection without a layered or modular system.
Choose this over Helite if you want a single-piece vest with a refined fit and competition-ready design. Choose this over lighter vests if you like feeling secure in a more structured vest.
Deployment time: 98ms
CO2 cartridge: Freejump Safety Vest Replacement Co2 Canisters
5. Spark Zip Up Air Vest
Best for: Riders looking for an accessible, zip-front air vest
The Spark Zip Up Air Vest fills an important niche for riders who want straightforward, functional air vest protection. Its zip-front design makes it easy to put on and take off, especially for schooling rides or riders new to air vests.
Compared to the Hit Air SV3, the Spark offers a slightly more structured feel with less emphasis on lightweight airflow. It’s not as refined as higher-end options, but it delivers reliable neck and torso protection without unnecessary complexity.
Choose this if ease of use and simplicity matter more than premium materials or ultra-slim styling.
Deployment time: 0.2s
CO2 cartridge: Seaver Safety Vest Replacement Co2 Cartridges
6. Seaver Safefit Airbag Vest
Best for: Riders who want modern design with balanced protection
The Seaver SafeFit sits somewhere between the sleek profile of the Penelope Airlight and the more traditional structure of Helite-style vests. Its close-to-body fit pairs well with modern riding apparel while still offering solid stabilization through the neck, spine, and torso.
Compared to the Spark or SV3, the SafeFit feels more polished and tailored. Riders often choose it when they want a contemporary look without fully committing to an ultra-minimal show-coat style vest.
Choose this if you want a refined, modern option that balances aesthetics with dependable protection.
Deployment time: <200ms
CO2 cartridge: Seaver Safety Vest Replacement Co2 Cartridges
How Does an Equestrian Air Vest Work?
An equestrian air vest is designed to activate only in the event of a true fall. Each vest is connected to the saddle by a lanyard or tether. When a rider is unseated with enough force, that tether triggers the activation mechanism, puncturing a CO₂ canister and inflating the vest in a fraction of a second, usually before the rider even reaches the ground.
Once deployed, the vest creates a protective cushion around key areas of the body, helping stabilize the neck and spine while absorbing impact through the torso.
Will the deployment spook your horse?
Air vest deployment is loud—there’s no way around that. The sound can be surprising, but in practice, most horses react more to the rider no longer being in the saddle than to the noise itself. For many riders, especially eventers, air vests are used routinely without long-term issues.
If you’re concerned, a controlled test deployment on the ground can help desensitize your horse. Standing nearby while the vest inflates allows them to experience the sound without the added stress of a fall.
Choosing the Right Air Vest Size
Air vest sizing matters more than many riders expect. Because an air vest inflates rapidly around your body in a fall, the right fit directly influences how well the vest protects you in the event of a fall. The goal is a vest that fits close to the body when deflated, without restricting movement or interfering with your position in the saddle.
How an air vest should fit when deflated
Before inflation, your air vest should feel secure but not tight. It should sit smoothly against your torso, stay centered when you move, and allow full freedom through your shoulders and hips.
When properly fitted:
- The vest does not shift or bounce when you rise into two-point
- You can sit, post, and reach without feeling restricted
- The bottom of the vest sits above the saddle cantle when seated
If the vest feels loose or rides up when deflated, it’s unlikely to provide optimal coverage once deployed.
Why torso length often matters more than chest size
One of the most common sizing mistakes riders make is focusing only on chest measurements. With air vests, torso length is often the more important factor.
A vest that’s too long can interfere with your saddle or restrict movement once inflated. A vest that’s too short may leave gaps in coverage through the lower back. Paying attention to how the vest sits when you’re seated in the saddle is just as important as how it fits standing up.
Layering your safety vest
Think about how you’ll use your air vest most often. Riders who primarily school in their vest may want a slightly more forgiving fit for layering over base layers or light jackets. Those planning to wear an air vest under a show coat should prioritize a closer, more streamlined fit.
If you’re between sizes, consider:
- Whether you’ll wear the vest over or under a show coat
- Seasonal riding conditions
- The cut and flexibility of your riding apparel
Sizing for kids and growing riders
For children and young riders, adjustability is key. Kids’ air vests are designed to accommodate growth, but they should still fit securely at the time of purchase.
A properly fitted kids’ vest:
- Stays snug without restricting movement
- Allows room for growth without excessive looseness
- Remains stable in the saddle
Avoid sizing up too aggressively. A vest that’s too large may not deploy or protect as intended.
Signs your air vest doesn’t fit correctly
If you’re unsure about sizing, these are common red flags:
- The vest shifts or rotates during riding
- The bottom edge presses into the saddle when seated
- The vest feels restrictive before inflation
- There are visible gaps between the vest and your torso
Any of these issues can affect your comfort and safety.
How to Care for Your Air Vest
An air vest is an investment in your safety, and like any piece of technical gear, it performs best when it’s properly cared for. Good habits help ensure your vest functions exactly as intended when you need it.
Daily handling and storage
After each ride, take a moment to check your vest before hanging it up. Make sure the tether is detached, the canister is secure, and there’s no visible damage to the outer fabric or seams. Air vests should be stored fully deflated, on a wide hanger or laid flat, in a dry, temperature-stable area.
Avoid leaving your vest in a hot car or crumpled at the bottom of your tack trunk. Extreme heat, moisture, and prolonged compression can all shorten the lifespan of internal components.
Cleaning your air vest
Most air vests are not machine washable, and submerging them in water can damage the inflation system. Instead, spot-clean the exterior using a damp cloth and mild soap as needed.
General cleaning tips:
- Never remove or tamper with internal airbag components
- Avoid harsh detergents or solvents
- Let the vest air dry completely before storage
If your vest gets heavily soiled, always check the manufacturer’s care recommendations before attempting deeper cleaning.
Check out our guide on equestrian air vest cleaning →
What to know about CO₂ canisters
CO₂ canisters are single-use safety components. If your vest deploys, even accidentally, the canister must be replaced before riding again.
A few important reminders:
- Always use the brand- and size-specific canister recommended for your vest
- Check that the canister is securely installed before each ride
- Inspect threads, keyball, lanyard, and clip for damage during replacement
Keeping a spare canister in your tack trunk is a smart move, especially if you ride frequently or compete away from home.
What to do after air vest deployment
If your air vest deploys, take time to fully inspect it before resetting or replacing the canister.
Look for:
- Tears or abrasions in the fabric
- Uneven inflation or deflation
- Damage near seams, closures, or the tether attachment point
If anything looks questionable, it’s best to contact the manufacturer or retailer before riding again. When it comes to safety gear, “probably fine” isn’t good enough.
When to replace an air vest
Even with excellent care, air vests aren’t designed to last forever. Heavy use, multiple deployments, or visible wear may signal it’s time to reassess your gear.
If your vest no longer fits correctly, shows signs of structural fatigue, or has outdated safety features compared to current standards, upgrading is a proactive safety decision.
Choosing the Equestrian Air Vest That Works for You
Choosing an air vest is ultimately about protecting the partnership you’ve built with your horse and giving yourself the confidence to ride with focus and clarity. The best air vest isn’t necessarily the most expensive or the most minimal; it’s the one that fits correctly, integrates seamlessly with your riding routine, and supports you when it matters most.
At Farm House Tack, we believe safety gear should empower riders—not distract them. With the right air vest, you can focus on what truly matters: riding confidently, caring for your horse, and continuing to grow in the saddle.
Shop our collection of Equestrian Safety Vests →
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