The International Equestrian Federation has announced the formation of a new working group on safety vests equestrian (ESVWG). These safety vests are increasingly used, " in a wide range of equestrian disciplines ", and the FIE notes a " growing concern about the lack of independent data attesting to their effectiveness in reducing athlete injuries "This working group will therefore have the mission of examining their role" in reducing the severity of injuries ».
« We lack critical data on how specific injuries occur during falls and how protective equipment performs in real-world conditions, explains Dr. Mark Hart, chairman of the FEI Medical Commission. Athletes and other community members ask questions important and constructive information on the performance of vests in real-life conditions, on how they affect the athlete's movements and on the question of to know if their use can influence the horse's behaviorThis information is essential and helps to guide the debate towards more effective and evidence-based security solutions. »
