Requirements for Helmets and Body Protection Vests

In order to promote and uphold the highest standards of safety, the USPC policies on helmets (Policy #0810) and on body protection vests (Policy #0830) have been updated by the Safety Committee and officially passed by the USPC Board of Governors during the October Board meeting. Both policies now emphasize the requirement that all participants must wear the proper safety equipment. This includes a properly fitted and securely fastened helmet certified by one or more of the approved safety standard organizations listed in the policy during all mounted activities (except vaulting) and certain unmounted activities, such as while longeing and participating in jogs. The official policy can be found on the official Pony Club website.

In addition, a properly fitted equestrian body protection vest should be worn, as per manufacturer’s guidelines, while jumping cross-country or solid obstacles at all USPC-sponsored activities by all participants, including members and non-members. In addition, equestrian body protection vests must be certified by one or more of the approved safety standards organizations listed in the policy and also each discipline’s USPC rulebook/handbook. The official policy can be found on the official Pony Club website.

This requirement applies to all activities sponsored by the United States Pony Clubs, its regions, and by registered Pony Clubs or Pony Club Riding Centers. In addition, as part of USPC’s procedures, non-member participants must sign a waiver of liability prior to participation, agreeing to be bound by all applicable USPC rules and the terms and provisions of the activity. Organizers must ensure that these waivers are signed before participation begins and are kept on file for a minimum of three years or according to state regulations.

One important note is that these two safety policies do not endorse or guarantee any particular brand or product, and USPC does not endorse particular brands or products.