Besides proper training as a rider and knowledge of proper horse handling, safe equipment significantly contributes to reducing and preventing serious injuries while riding. The airbag for riders and drivers is the best example! For anyone who values safety, this vest should be a standard part of their equipment, just like a good riding helmet and boots.
The Hit-Air airbag system has been used successfully worldwide since 1985. Hit-Air airbag vests are manufactured by Mugen Denko Co., Ltd. in Japan. They have been marketing the Hit-Air airbag system since 1985 and have a thoroughly tested and proven safety record.
Hit-Air is a market leader with its vests sold in Asia, Europe, Australia and America.
New: Hit-Air airbag vest Evolution with extra shock absorption
The latest Hit-air model is the Hit-air Evolution airbag vest. The Evolution model is a standard all-in-one airbag model with impact-absorbing properties.
The biggest difference from older models is that the Evolution uses shock-absorbing Visco Elastane. Visco Elastane meets the EN13594:2015 impact test. Experiments have shown that raw eggs don't break when dropped on this material!
The Visco Elastane is positioned at the front of the vest, also behind the CO2 cartridge, providing additional protection. The airbag's air tube has been modified and further improved. The airbag is positioned behind the key box to enhance its shock-absorbing function.
A keybox with the S-System is installed as standard. This is an improved Type B keybox that halves the activation time (from activation to fully inflated airbag). The activation time is approximately 0.25 seconds. The Evolution model comes standard with a convenient all-in-one lanyard instead of the standard coiled cord, making it even more secure to your saddle.
This model is available in 3 sizes, each of which is adjustable:
Hit-Air Evolution-CS is suitable for size 2XS-S and is activated with a 50cc CO2 cartridge.
Hit-Air Evolution-CM is suitable for sizes S-XL and is activated with a 60cc CO2 cartridge.
The Hit-Air Evolution-CL is suitable for sizes XL-3XL and is activated with a 60cc CO2 cartridge.
The Evolution airbag vest is available in 3 colours: black , navy and Brown . We usually have all sizes in stock, so feel free to come try them on!
Hit-Air airbag vest MC model bodywarmer
The original Hit-air airbag vest (model MC) is best described as a body warmer with an integrated airbag system and back protector. In the event of a fall when the rider falls from the saddle, the coiled cord connecting the rider to the saddle automatically activates the airbag system.
Feel safe and enjoy your ride without feeling constricted. The vest is comfortable to wear, and its major advantage is that you no longer have to worry about the stiffness of a body protector. The system is suitable for all equestrian disciplines.
Order model MC here (choose your size according to your normal clothing size).
Lightweight airbag vest Hit-air SV
The SV2 model is sometimes called the "lightweight" airbag vest because it weighs the least.
Order model SV-2 here (size 2XS-S).
How a Hit-air airbag vest works
In the event of a fall, the airbag wraps around your torso in less than half a second, providing complete protection from your neck to your tailbone. The Hit-Air airbag vest protects the neck, spine, abdomen, chest, ribs, and tailbone, and also acts as a shock absorber when you hit the ground. When the airbag deploys, it completely immobilizes the upper body for several seconds, reducing the risk of spinal displacement, whiplash, and serious injuries. Because the spine is stabilized, the neck and throat have limited range of motion and are optimally protected.
After a fall, the vest can be reused. Just shake off the sand and replace the CO2 cartridge. Replacing the cartridge is quick and easy.
Accidental deployment when dismounting, if you forget to unclip the coiled strap, is rare because it takes approximately 35 kg of falling weight to activate the airbag. So, if you forget to unclip yourself from the saddle or carriage, the airbag won't inflate; you'll only feel a tug reminding you to unclip. Riders quickly get used to the new clip-on/clip-off system. It's the same principle as fastening or unfastening your seatbelt when getting in or out of the car...
While wearing the vest, you won't even notice it until you fall. In the event of a fall, the coiled cord detaches from your airbag vest, activating the CO2 cartridge, causing the vest to inflate in less than half a second.
As the vest inflates, you immediately feel like a large, firm balloon closing around you. Moreover, your neck is also enclosed by the neck roll, which reaches down to the bottom of your helmet and ears. Your torso, with all its vulnerable and vital parts, is then completely protected from your neck down to your tailbone and pelvis. You're essentially "wrapped up."
This all happens within the time it takes you to fall and land softly on the ground!
The latest Evolution model is the most advanced and also the most adjustable in size, so this model is highly recommended.
Frequently asked Hit-air questions
Should I activate the airbag?
No, after mounting you attach the coiled cord to the saddle and if you fall the airbag will automatically deploy.
Is the CO2 cartridge refillable?
No, a cartridge can be used once and must be replaced after activation.
How much does an airbag vest weigh?
Model Evolution-CS (adjustable, sizes 2XS to S) = 1.1 kg
Model Evolution-CM (adjustable, sizes S to XL) = 1.2 kg
Model Evolution-CL (adjustable, sizes XL to 3XL) = 1.3 kg
Model SV2 (adjustable, size SXS-S) = 810 g
Model MC = approx. 1.5 kg
Model SKV (adjustable child airbag vest, size M-XL) = 880 g
Is the airbag vest reusable after it has deployed?
Yes, just let the air out of the airbag, close the popped snaps so that the airbag is back in the vest and then replace the CO2 cartridge.
Am I visible in the dark?
Yes, the airbag vest has reflective materials on the front and back.
Has the Hit-Air vest been tested and approved by an official body?
Yes, the Hit-Air airbag vest has been extensively tested by TNO (the Netherlands), is certified, and complies with all applicable European directives. The Hit-Air airbag vests are the only fully CE-approved airbag vests on the market. The mechanical tests for airbag activation and the time required for filling the airbag chambers were performed by TNO in the Netherlands. The Hit-Air airbag vests have been fully and thoroughly tested both mechanically and materially, and based on these tests, they have a CE certificate issued by TNO Netherlands.
Are the Hit-air vests BETA approved?
The airbag vest is not yet BETA-approved. However, if you're competing in a race where the EN13158/BETA standard is mandatory, you can wear the Hit-air vest as additional protection in addition to a BETA-approved body protector.
How do I know which size cartridge fits my Hit-air?
When you open the zipper of the key box, there is a label on the inside with the correct size you need.
How to: Attach the lanyard to your saddle
How to: Replace the Hit-air cartridge
Hit-Air precautions
Avoid carrying sharp or pointed objects such as pins, pens, keys, or hoof picks in the pockets of the airbag vest, or in clothing worn underneath. Resulting damage to the airbags before or during deployment can prevent them from functioning effectively. The airbag vest should fit properly and not be too small. Always wear the vest closed and put on last.
Once a year, the airbag should be tested for proper operation by deploying it. The CO2 cartridge to be replaced must be identical to the original one supplied with the vest, both in size and capacity. Ensure that the cartridge neck is intact and not oxidized. Ensure that the CO2 cartridge is screwed straight and securely into the cartridge holder. If the CO2 cartridge is not screwed in properly or is not properly tightened, the deployment time and operation of the airbag will be negatively affected. If the airbag is not deployed for an extended period, regularly check that the CO2 cartridge is still securely tightened and not oxidized in the cartridge holder.
The airbag vest should be cleaned regularly and stored on a hanger in a dry place after use.
If you prefer a regular body protector and not an airbag vest, be sure to check out this article for more information and facts about body protectors.
