This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] The waistcoats are called vests or body armor here. There has been some contrversy about them. Pony Club was going to require them for eventing, but they are/were expensive and at the time of discussion were not ASTM-SEI approved. Alot of the kids ride with them now, but they are still optional. As for helmets, a helmet is not protective unless it is ASTM-SEI approved and is LESS than 5 years old. The foam inside breaks down and is no longer strong enough to protect at impact. I get alot of adults that come to me for lessons that are wearing the old style helmets or even helmets without chinstraps. They might as well be riding with nothing on their heads! I cringe when I see them bring their kids to lessons with the old helmets saying that they would prefer NOT to buy a new helmet....saying that they are too expensive. It's their kids head and life! Helmets are just my pet peeve, it's all common sense. There is a fantastic video put out by Pony Club called "Every time, Every ride". It is very graphic, but does get it's point across about the importance of wearing a proper helmet.
Kate Grad B from Mystic ARIA certified instructor Fjord Fan
