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Airbag Safety Jackets For Equestrian Riding: All You Wanted To Know
Airbag Safety Jackets (vests, long sleeve jackets and show jackets) have become quite popular this year. We had brought a few in before prior to this season. However, with the upcoming WEF circuit, we have noticed that there is an uptick in the demand for these jackets.
If you are in the market for one and want some questions answered, you have come to the right place. In this post, we will attempt to answer the most frequently asked questions about the fit, selection, technology and maintenance of these new systems.
Update: April 12, 2020 : As of April 5, 2020 a new (and improved) airbag safety jacket vest has been introduced to the market. The standalone Helite ZipIn2 is a new safety vest that is designed for use either on its own or with a compatible show jacket. This new vest has all the safety features of it predecessor along with new innovations. For one, it can worn on its own without an outer vest/jacket. It does not have to be zipped in. The airbag is part of the vest, no longer detachable. The best part is it is still backwards compatible with your Dada Sport Show Jacket.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the airbag system work?
First, it is impotant to understand the components of the airbag safety jacket/vest technology. There are 2 major components: the Airbag Shell Jacket (outer) and the Helite Airbag Zip’in (inner). The Helite Airbag Zip’In connects to the outer shell .
What is the next generation of airbag safety jacket technology?
The next gen of the airbag safety technology is so far available in 2 different products: One designed and manufactured by Helite, the other designed by Freejump, manufactured by Helite. While they look similar on the outside, there are a few notable difference between them.
Do I need to buy both the outer jacket and inner Helite Airbag Zip’in?
Yes. The inner Helite Airbag Zip will inflate once the system is triggered.
Can I use my existing Helite Airbag Zip’In?
Yes, as long as your Helite Airbag Zip’in is functioning well.
How do I know whether my Helite Airbag Zip’In is operational and safe to use?
Bring it to a Helite dealer and ask them to inspect it. If you bring it to us, we will be glad to test it as well to make sure the inflation mechanism is operational.
How does the Helite Airbag Zip’In protect me compared to other brands?
There is some significant advantages to Helite’s technology versus other airbag systems.
First, it is a homogeneous airbag, i.e. one piece airbag that inflates all at once. Other airbag systems on the market do not offer a 1 piece airbag. Instead the airbag is divided into 2 or more sections. This leads to off-time deployment, where one section of the airbag may deploy later than others.
Secondly, Helite is the only airbag solution that provides full protection from the neck to the tailbone.
What about different brands, DadaSport versus Oscar and Gabrielle?
Jackets from DadaSport and Oscar and Gabrielle are both compatible with the Helite Airbag Zip’In. The Dada Sport styling is more fitted than Oscar and Gabrielle. The underlying technology is the same for both jackets. They connect to the saddle with the same mechanism (i.e. Helite Saddle Strap)
How exactly do the airbag safety jackets work?
What parts of the body does the airbag protect?
What makes Helite Airbags the best for protection?
Do the Airbag Jackets look and feel bulky?
Airbag Jackets have come a long way in the last 2 years. The original version was bulky but the most recent versions are sleek and light.
What do I do after the airbag deploys?
Your jacket and airbag zip’in are both re-usable after a fall and deployment. All you need to do is to make sure is to replace the CO2 cartridge. Remove the spent cartridge and replace it with a new cartridge.
What size cartridge do I need?
For all adult sizes, (XS through XXL), you will need the 60 cc cartridge. For Child Large size, you will need 50 cc cartridge.
What is the warranty on the Helite Airbag?
Standard warranty is 2 years. However, you can extend that warranty (for free) by registering your purchase on Helite’s website. Here is the registration link:
https://my.helite.com/register
Why do I need an airbag jacket?
Airbag Jackets are safety equipment. Think of them in the same context as your helmet. If a piece of equipment has the potential to protect you from severe injury, why not? Today, some of the world’s top riders compete in the airbag safety jackets, including Martin Fuchs.
What is the difference between Helite Prestige, Helite Airshell Gillet?
Essentially, these are all training vests manufactured by Helite. The Helite Zip’In can be connected to these vests. The Prestige is the sportier model of the training vest whereas the Gillet is more classic and traditional.
How do I check my size in the Helite models?
How to measure?
Measure according to the graphic below. The sizing is unisex. The chart below is in Centimeters (cms). 
Are the Helite Jackets unisex?
Yes, the Helite Vests are uni-sex. Please check the size chart above to correctly determine your size.
I still have more questions. Who can I contact?
You can always Contact Us via email or phone. We will be glad to help.
Conclusion
We hope we have helped clear up most of the questions/doubts. This is by no means, a complete list. Please ask your questions by commenting below.
Comments
2 responses to “Airbag Safety Jackets For Equestrian Riding: All You Wanted To Know”
I am trying to find a distributor who inspects the equestrian Helite vest. Is there somewhere in the USA where I can send it to? I am located in Wilmington, Delaware.
Thanks!
Please contact Ingrid Hansen (Helite USA) at 561-878-1078. You can also email them at [email protected]
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