Vipa Safety Vests
Greg knew exactly what was needed for protection with his 40 years of horse experience, working and race riding, and a few race falls along the way. In 2005, after extensive research and many proto-types, Greg designed VIPA Body Protectors. Utilising the latest technology to select the right shock absorbing foam to both absorb and reduce impact, Greg decided on a Nitrex closed cell PVC foam. The material used to cover the Nitrex foam is a light weight Air Mesh, chosen for it’s wear, strength and ventilation capabilities, also with air holes punched through the shock absorbing foam to allow air to be passed through, creating the ultimate in comfort for Body Protection. VIPA Body Protectors are now sold throughout the world and are well received by horse riders. There are a few different standards used throughout the world for testing body protectors. VIPA Body Protectors are manufactured to the EN13158: 2009 standard and are tested to meet the highest safety requirements for the different disciplines for which they serve. The EN13158: 2009 Standard provides the technical specification for equestrian body protectors, setting the level of shock absorption required to be offered and controlling the area of the body that must be covered by the protector. There are three levels of protection to cater for different activities and users. The highest Level 3 is tested at the highest energy impacts. The materials used absorb impact thereby lessening or reducing the injury. The differences between the three levels are due to the differing thicknesses of the foam used.WARNINGNo body protector can prevent serious injury in serious accidents, but a body protector can improve your chances of staying safe and reducing the severity of injuries by making the right choice.Injuries will not be prevented involving severe extension, flexion, torsion or crushing of the body. Spinal protection is not provided.VIPA Body Protectors – VIPA, VIPA I, VIPA II (Harness and Carriage Drivers Only) and VIPA III are all tested and conform to the EN13158: 2009 Standard. The VIPA Body Protectors are annually re-tested to ensure long term consistency in the quality of the manufacturer and of the shock absorbing foam used in the construction of the body protectors.Frequent visual inspection should be made for signs of wear, especially after accidents or injury. This may cause cell damage of the foam, obvious signs of which would be reduced thickness or a change of the feel of the foam. The garment should be replaced if you are in any doubt. Otherwise, under normal conditions, it is recommended that your VIPA Body Protector is replaced every 3 - 4 years. Diane, Greg’s wife, works in the VIPA office and rode with great success in show jumping throughout New Zealand prior to marrying Greg. Greg and Diane’s two children Jordan (now a Jockey) and Tayla (an eventing rider / track rider) ride and compete throughout Victoria with lots of success whilst wearing their body protectors.
Body Protection Vests & Safety Products for Horse Riding,Harness Driving, Playing Sport, Caring for Animals, Rehabilitating
