Safety Equipment for Events
Keeping Horse and Rider Safe for Three-Day Eventing
Three-day eventing is sometimes considered the most dangerous of all equestrian sports, which is why riders must have all the necessary safety equipment for events.
Three-day eventing consists of three distinct phases: dressage, cross-country and show jumping. The dressage phase is arguably the least dangerous, but safety equipment is critical throughout an event, regardless of how experienced you might be.
Splint or Performance Boots
In dressage, riders are not allowed to put anything on their horse’s legs, but splint or performance boots are absolutely necessary for safety during the other two phases of three-day eventing. You can have special boots that you use only for events, or you can use the same ones you school in every day. Regardless, they should be sufficiently supportive to prevent injuries like bowed tendons ad ligament tears.
Helmet
Riders might despise putting on that hunt cap for three-day eventing, but as safety equipment goes, this ranks at the top of the list. An ATSM-approved helmet can save your life in the event of an accident, and you should make sure it fits correctly before each horse show.
Bell Boots
Equine safety equipment also includes bell boots, which fit snugly against the coronet band and protect the fronts and backs of the hooves. These boots can be made of neoprene or rubber, but if they have Velcro tabs, they should be secured with electrician’s tape so they don’t fall off during cross-country.
Medical Armband
Another important piece of safety equipment for three-day eventing is the medical armband, which should be worn for cross-country. This band has the rider’s name, phone number, address, and other personal information, as well as information about allergies and physicians. In most cases, events require that all riders have one.
Safety Vest
A safety vest can be classified as both safety equipment and a fashion statement. Usually ordered in the chosen colors of the rider, this vest protects the back, neck and stomach from injury related to a fall. It should fit properly around the waist, and riders shouldn’t share them at events. If you’re concerned, talk to a three-day eventing instructor for advice.
Gloves
Whether you’re cantering around the dressage arena, rushing at jumps in the stadium, or dashing across a cross-country course, gloves are an essential piece of safety equipment for three-day eventing. They provide the rider with a tighter grip on the reins, and prevent burns from the reins if they should slip through the rider’s fingers.
Running Martingale
You can’t use any type of martingale for dressage, but they are an important piece of safety equipment for the other two phases of three-day eventing. Although they aren’t required for every horse, they can be extremely useful with a horse that likes to toss his head, and rein stops should be used to prevent sliding during an event.
You should know, however, that a running martingale can be a safety hazard when used improperly. For example, if a horse trips on the cross-country course, the rider must have the presence of mind to give some rein so the martingale doesn’t trip the horse. Standing martingales are not permitted in most competitions.
These pieces of safety equipment will make three-day eventing far more enjoyable for both horse and rider. If you have any questions, however, make sure you address them with your instructor or trainer to ensure you don’t put you or your horse in jeopardy.
