Jessie Phoenix and Wabbit. Photo by Sally Spickard.
In a significant move toward advancing rider safety, the FEI has announced the creation of the Equestrian Safety Vest Working Group (ESVWG), a global initiative designed to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of protective equipment used across equestrian disciplines.
With the popularity of both traditional body protectors and air vests steadily rising, questions have mounted over the lack of independent, science-backed data assessing their true impact on injury prevention. The newly formed group, chaired by Dr. Mark Hart (USA), Chair of the FEI Medical Committee, aims to close this gap through a comprehensive review of safety vest performance, real-world injury data, and testing protocols.
“While there is growing support for the use of body protectors and air vests in both sport and recreational riding, there is still minimal data to fully understand their effectiveness,” Dr. Hart said. “Athletes and others in the community are asking important, constructive questions… and these insights are helping to drive the discussion toward more effective and evidence-based safety solutions.”
The ESVWG will operate through two international panels:
The Scientific Panel, comprised of experts in biomechanics, injury modeling, medicine, vest manufacturing, and regulatory standards, will focus on analyzing thoracic and spinal injuries and developing more relevant safety testing frameworks.
The National Federation Advisory Panel, composed of members nominated by their respective NFs, will ensure global stakeholder input, support community communication, and assist with fundraising for future research efforts.
The Working Group’s remit includes evaluating how vests affect rider mobility and horse behavior, as well as recommending improvements to injury data collection and fall analysis. It will also seek collaboration with other high-risk sports like horse racing and motocross to cross-reference findings and promote safer vest design.
The ESVWG follows in the footsteps of the FEI Helmet Working Group, whose research helped shape Virginia Tech’s influential equestrian helmet rating system. By applying a similar evidence-based approach, the FEI hopes to deliver meaningful change in rider safety through innovation, scientific scrutiny, and global collaboration.
A full list of ESVWG members and other information is available on the FEI website here.
