Did you know?
Most drivers claim that they ‘never saw the horse’ after a hit and run accident happens. This is why the British Horse Society has been adamantly trying to encourage horse riders to opt for hi-vis clothing.
The safety gear is designed for better visibility on the road. In fact, riders who frequent the highway paths and are habitual of taking leisure rides at night should definitely opt for reflective gears.
What is the proof?
Statistics show that reflective clothing gives the riders an extra three seconds to react to a horse rider in front of them. This tiny timeframe is enough for them to swerve away from the horses. In short, reflective safety gear can actually save you and your horse from a nasty accident.
Apart from road mishaps, the gear has been proven to be very handy when riders get lost. The emergency responders on helicopters have observed that it is very difficult to locate lost riders and horses among the fields and trails. This is because the neutral apparels camouflage them among the thicket of trees.
However, if the lost rider has bright fluorescent gear on, then they have better chances of finding them quickly. Hence, after collecting data and statements regarding these critical situations the BHS came up with campaigns that advised horse riders to ‘Be seen, be safe’. They even created posters that showed the significant difference between a rider donning hi-vis clothing and one that didn’t.
What is hi-vis clothing?
As high-tech as the name sounds, hi-vis clothing is not uncommon. It is actually a common sight on the road as many professions demand their workers to wear high visibility clothing. This includes construction workers, traffic police, airport workers etc.
It is considered as a PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that makes the owner visible to any vehicle that may be approaching towards them. The reflective gear comes in distinct neon colours like yellow, orange and green. As the name suggests the garment reflects the headlights that are shined on it. Thus, instantly notifying the approaching vehicles to slow down as there is someone in front of them.
The main objective is to stand out in the crowd whether it is daylight or dark.
Furthermore, not just for horse riders these garments are considered a cautious measure for cyclist and motorists too. In fact, they have become a popular site in cross-country trails and marathons that cyclists partake in.
Interested in wearing reflective safety gear?
Have we convinced you to wear this safety wear? Then browse your options here.
Are you still a bit hesitant about looking odd in a neon jacket? Are you wondering if the safety wear is practical?
The HyVIZ Waterproof Riding Jacket in particular is:
- Made from breathable fabric
- Is water resistant
- Has zipped pockets to keep mobile phones and wallets safe
- Elegantly cut to fit you well
They guarantee that you will get full visibility all year round and look smart while being safe!
Looking for more? Gallop to the Little Fields Farms to purchase all your equestrian essentials.
