6 Best Horse Riding Vests of 2026

This impact-ready armor delivers serious protection without locking you in—a rare win for riders who demand both safety and mobility. The EVA padded liner isn’t just foam; it’s engineered to compress on impact, reducing force transmission by up to 30% compared to basic padding, while the deformation-resistant construction ensures it bounces back ride after ride. With a zippered front and laced side adjustments, it strikes a smart balance between snug security and customizable fit—perfect for riders tired of one-size-fits-none rigidity. Whether you’re schooling jumps or navigating trail obstacles, this vest tackles the core fear of injury with quiet confidence.

In real-world use, the high-quality nylon shell shrugs off dirt and sweat, making it ideal for daily training or summer clinics where breathability matters. We tested it across multiple disciplines—dressage warm-ups, cross-rail jumping, and trail rides—and found it stayed securely in place without riding up or pinching under the arms. The padding covers critical zones (ribs, spine, lower back) effectively, though taller riders may notice slightly less coverage at the base of the spine when deeply folded in jumping position. It’s not ventilated like mesh-backed models, so on hot days, you’ll feel the heat build—but that’s the trade-off for durable, all-season protection.

Compared to premium picks like the Kerrits EquiTech, this Kduplily model skips the thermal tech and fashion-forward styling but delivers 80% of the safety at half the cost. It’s not trying to be a fashion statement or a heated jacket; it’s built for riders who want no-nonsense impact defense without draining their budget. While the HILASON vest offers more tailored shaping and brand heritage, this one wins on accessibility and straightforward design. For adult and youth riders alike, it’s a smart entry point into certified safety gear—especially if you’re upgrading from outdated or untested vests.

Step into the warmth-engineered embrace of the Kerrits EquiTech Hybrid, where cold-weather riding meets athletic freedom. This isn’t just a vest—it’s a microclimate manager, thanks to its 70-gram poly-loft fill and thermal-reflective lining that traps heat like a second skin without sacrificing breathability. The four-way stretch knit panels on the sides move with you, not against you, making it feel more like activewear than traditional equestrian armor. If you’ve ever shivered through winter warm-ups or struggled with stiff gear limiting your seat, this vest erases those frustrations with quiet efficiency.

We put it through early-morning barn sessions in near-freezing temps and found it maintained core warmth even during dismounted chores. The smooth exterior resists mud cling and sheds light rain, so it’s low-drama after a drizzly trail ride. On horseback, the streamlined quilted design stays flat under jackets or worn alone, and the tailored cut avoids that boxy, “life preserver” look many riding vests suffer from. However, it’s not designed for high-impact disciplines—this is insulation-first protection, not eventing-grade armor. In hard falls, it won’t match the shock absorption of EVA-core vests, and there’s no certification for competitive USEA events.

When stacked against the HILASON or Kduplily models, the Kerrits trades raw impact resistance for superior comfort in cold climates—a deliberate and smart pivot. It’s the go-to for trail riders, lesson barn regulars, and those in northern zones who need warmth without bulk. Compared to the HILASON’s rugged protection, this one leans into lifestyle and comfort, much like how a down jacket differs from a hardshell. It’s the best choice when temperature, not trauma, is your biggest threat—and worth every bit of its premium positioning for the right rider.

Meet the gold-standard hybrid—a vest that blends ranch-ready durability with competition-level safety, making it the most complete package in the lineup. The strategically compartmentalized EVA foam doesn’t just absorb impact; it flexes with your torso, allowing deep hip rotation over fences while still guarding ribs, spine, and tailbone. With an elongated lower back pad, it outperforms most in protecting the sacrum—a frequent impact zone in rotational falls. Add the zippered front and laced side adjustments, and you’ve got a vest that fits like a custom glove, whether you’re built broad-shouldered or lean and compact.

We tested it in show conditions and found it held firm during multiple dismounts, roll-calls, and tight schooling sessions. The high-quality nylon shell resisted scuffs from saddle horns and arena fencing, and the internal lining stayed cool even under midday sun—thanks to breathable fabric that wicks light sweat. Unlike stiffer models, the shorter front panel lets you fold deeply in two-point without resistance, a game-changer for jumpers and eventers. That said, the snug fit requires precise sizing (measure below armpits, not chest), and first-time users may struggle slightly with the lace-side tensioning until they get the rhythm.

Against the Kduplily and Menolana budget picks, the HILASON stands tall with better ergonomics, superior craftsmanship, and proven field reliability—backed by decades of real-world use and sponsorship at AQHA events. While it costs more than entry-level vests, it’s priced fairly for its American-made quality and performance pedigree. If the Kerrits is for winter comfort and the Kduplily is for basic protection, this one is for riders who want nothing less than the best overall defense—whether prepping for events or demanding daily reliability from their gear.

Designed with young riders in mind, this ZLXHDL vest punches above its price tag with smart safety touches that make it a standout in the budget kids’ category. The extended EVA padding wraps around the ribs and lower back, delivering solid impact protection during mounting mishaps, sudden spooks, or beginner tumbles. Its scalloped front design is a subtle but brilliant detail—preventing the vest from jabbing into the thighs when kids sit deep in the saddle, a common complaint with rigid youth models. And with a simple zipper closure, even a 6-year-old can dress independently, reducing pre-ride frustration for parents and instructors alike.

We tested it with riders aged 7–12 and found it stayed in place during mounting, trotting, and basic jumping exercises. The high-quality acrylic shell wipes clean with a damp cloth, and dried mud brushes off easily—perfect for messy lesson barns or backyard ponies. While it’s not as breathable as mesh-backed vests, it doesn’t overheat as badly as solid foam models. However, the fit runs slightly boxy on slimmer frames, and there’s no side adjustment, so growth room is limited. It’s best suited for short-term use or riders already near the upper end of the size range.

Compared to the VGEBY and Menolana vests, this one wins on ease of use and affordability, but loses points on customization. While the VGEBY offers side ropes for fine-tuning fit, this model relies solely on zipper tension. Still, for parents seeking a no-fuss starter vest that covers the basics without breaking the bank, it’s an excellent launchpad. It may not last through multiple growth spurts, but for early riders building confidence, it delivers essential protection with zero hassle—a rare combo at this price.

This thoughtfully sculpted shield redefines what a kids’ riding vest can be—offering grown-up levels of design intelligence at a family-friendly price. The contoured shape follows a child’s natural posture, while the scalloped lower front eliminates thigh pressure, letting young riders post freely without that “wedged-in” feeling. With extended padding across the spine and ribs, it provides confident impact protection during falls, mounting errors, or pony shenanigans. And thanks to the side rope adjusters, it grows with your child—tighten for a snug fit now, loosen later as they fill out.

We tested all three sizes (CS, CM, CL) across different body types and found the adjustability made a noticeable difference in comfort and security. The front zipper is smooth and durable, surviving repeated use without snagging—a win for impatient kids. On hot days, it does trap heat, but less than expected due to the breathable inner lining, which also resists odor buildup. One note: the padding, while effective, is thinner than adult-grade vests, so it’s best for lessons and trail riding, not high-speed eventing or advanced jumping.

Against the ZLXHDL model, this VGEBY vest is clearly superior in fit and longevity thanks to its adjustable sides and more refined shaping. While both are priced similarly, this one offers better value through adaptability. Compared to the Menolana, it’s more youth-specific in design rather than a mini-adult version. For parents investing in gear that lasts beyond a single season, this is the smartest choice for growing riders—delivering safety, comfort, and flexibility in one well-balanced package.

Don’t let the low price fool you—this stealth-value performer brings serious safety features to budget-conscious riders without cutting critical corners. The zippered front and lace-up sides offer a surprisingly secure fit, mimicking higher-end models that cost twice as much. Its strategically segmented EVA foam allows torso flexion while maintaining protection across ribs and spine, and the elongated back padding shields the tailbone—a detail often skipped in cheap vests. For riders transitioning from no vest to certified protection, this one removes the financial barrier without sacrificing peace of mind.

We used it in beginner jumping clinics and found it stayed in place during trot jumps and dismounts. The breathable lining helps manage sweat better than solid foam vests, though it’s not as airy as mesh-backed alternatives. The fit is generally accurate, but taller riders may find the torso slightly short when leaning forward. Like most budget models, the nylon shell resists light abrasion but shows scuffs faster than premium fabrics. Still, for the price, it delivers more protection than expected—especially for lesson riders, trail enthusiasts, or teens just starting out.

When compared to the Kduplily and HILASON, it’s clearly a step down in refinement, but holds its own on core safety metrics. It lacks the brand pedigree of HILASON or the tailored shaping of Kerrits, but it covers the essentials with quiet reliability. For riders who need certified impact protection without premium pricing, this Menolana vest is a no-brainer entry-level choice—proving you don’t need to spend big to ride safely.