Which Protector Is Right For Me?
Compare Racesafe's range of equestrian protection to find the right fit, performance, and coverage for your discipline.
| Feature | Motion Lite Back Protector | HX3 Body Protector | Motion 3 Body Protector | VELOAIR Airbag System |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type & Intended Use | Lightweight back protector for low-risk training, everyday leisure riding, or discreet wear under a show jacket. |
Racesafe's newest, most accessible Level 3 body protector — hexagonal foam construction for schooling, hacking, jumping and everyday competition. |
Racesafe's flagship Level 3 body protector, with over 120 individually hinged segments for maximum flexibility in eventing & competition. |
Slimline mechanical air jacket for equestrian competition & everyday riding. |
| Rider Age & Sizing | Young Rider (Sizes 1, 2, 3) and Adult (Sizes 1, 2, 3) with Regular and Long length options. |
Young Rider. Available in sizes X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large, all in Regular length. |
Separate Young Rider and Adult ranges, both offering dedicated Regular, Long, and Tall fit options across all stocked sizes. |
Young Rider (YR1, YR2, YR3) and Adult (A1/XS, A2/S, A3/M, A4R/L-XL, A4T/LT-XLT). Min. rider weight: 30kg. |
| Weight & Comfort | Ultra-lightweight, highly breathable, minimalist profile for discreet agility. |
Hexagonal foam flexes in multiple directions with adjustable shoulder straps — the slimmest Level 3 protector Racesafe has made. |
120+ hinged segments with MotionGuard multi-foam construction and breathable mesh for targeted comfort and freedom of movement. |
Featherlight, close-fitting gilet profile with an adjustable waistband; unrestrictive until deployment. |
| Level of Coverage | Focused spinal protection covering the full length of the back. |
Full 360° torso coverage protecting chest, ribs, spine, and internal organs. |
Comprehensive full 360° torso protection with dynamic, flexible paneling. |
Expanded coverage upon activation: protects neck, chest, back, torso, and hips. |
| Airbag Technology | — |
— |
— |
Integrated mechanical trigger; rapid inflation in under 0.095 seconds. |
| Compatibility | Can be worn standalone or under VELOAIR airbag. |
Can be worn standalone or under VELOAIR airbag. |
Designed to fit seamlessly as a standalone unit or beneath the VELOAIR. |
Fits close over show jackets or over Motion 3 / HX3 body protectors. |
| Available Colours | Black |
Navy (Young Rider range) |
Black |
Black & Navy |
| Starting Price (incl. VAT) | R3,699 | R5,399 | R6,399 | R10,995 |
| Safety Certification | Certified to EN1621-2:2014 motorcycle back protector standard |
Certified to BETA 2018 & EN13158:2018 (Level 3) |
Certified to BETA 2018 & EN13158:2018 (Level 3) |
Certified to NF S72-800:2022 equestrian air-bag standard |
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Back Protector vs. Body Protectors
Understanding the targeted focus of each design to help you choose the right balance of coverage and mobility.
Back Protector
e.g., Motion Lite
Engineered specifically to absorb impact along the spinal column and lower back, offering lightweight, low-profile coverage without restricting movement.
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Coverage: Spine, lower back, and core rear impact zones only.
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Certification: Certified to EN1621-2:2014 motorcycle back protector standard.
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Construction: Lightweight back protector designed specifically for comfort and ease of movement
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Best For: Daily schooling, show jumping, leisure riding, and warm-weather training.
Body Protectors
e.g., Motion3 / HX3
Engineered specifically for comprehensive upper-body defense, protecting vital internal organs, ribs, chest, and full torso against severe impacts.
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Coverage: Full 360° torso coverage (chest, ribs, vital organs, shoulders, and full spine).
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Certification: BETA Level 3 / EN13158 certified. Mandatory for Cross-Country.
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Construction: Multi-segment hexagonal foam panels engineered to flex multi-directionally and contour to the body.
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Best For: Eventing, cross-country, hunting, young/unpredictable horses, and high-risk disciplines.
Frequently Asked Questions
VELOAIR: How quickly does the airbag provide protection?
The VELOAIR is engineered for rapid response, with a mechanical trigger system that ensures the airbag inflates in less than 0.095 seconds. This rapid inflation provides critical torso, hip, and neck coverage before a rider impacts the ground. It is certified to the NF S72-800:2022 equestrian air-bag standard, ensuring it meets the latest safety requirements for riders
Motion 3: Why is it described as having "Freedom to Move"?
As the flagship Level 3 body protector, the Motion 3 features over 120 individually hinged segments. This unique construction makes the protector "hugely light and flexible," allowing the rider full freedom of movement without the restrictive feel of traditional safety wear. Olympic medalist Laura Collett notes that it is so discrete and "neat and tidy" that you barely look like you are wearing a protector at all.
HX3: Is this protector suitable for adult riders?
No, the HX3 Body Protector is a dedicated Young Rider range. It is specifically designed as an accessible Level 3 option for children and teenagers, offered in a professional Navy colourway. While it features the same high-standard hexagonal foam construction for schooling and competition, adults looking for Level 3 protection should choose the Motion 3 range instead.
Motion Lite: How does a back protector differ from a body protector?
The Motion Lite is a lightweight back protector designed specifically for the spine. While a full body protector like the Motion 3 offers 360-degree torso coverage, the Motion Lite focuses on being discrete and comfortable for low-risk training, leisure riding, or wearing under a show jacket. It is an ideal choice for riders who want a "barely-there" feel while still maintaining protection for the back
Replacement Canisters: How do I select the correct CO2 size?
The sizes are specific: 30g for YR1/YR2, 38g for YR3/A1, 45g for A2/A3, and 55g for the largest adult sizes (A4 and A4T). It is vital to use only genuine Racesafe branded canisters to ensure the efficacy and safety of the system.
If you would like some advice, please contact the Racesafe Team. Alternatively, use the form below to tell us a little about yourself & what you need from your body protector. One of our experts will then be in touch.

