PLN
The Freejump Plume is the latest generation of equestrian airbag vests. When a fall is detected, it inflates with gas in approximately 90 milliseconds, protecting the spine, chest, kidneys, and neck. It is at least 25% lighter than classic airbag models, comfortably meets the French standard NF S72-800-2022, and is the first in this segment to be machine washable. Available at Equishop since its launch.
Key information at a glance
- Activation time of approximately 90 ms , the airbag inflates faster than the rider can hit the ground, exceeding the requirements of standard NF S72-800-2022.
- Tubeless and seamless construction , without an internal air bladder, multi-layered material joined by ultrasonic welding results in an ultra-light, breathable vest at least 25% lighter than traditional airbags.
- Protects zones with the highest risk of injury : thoracic and lumbar spine, chest and ribs, kidneys, and neck thanks to an inflatable collar that works with a certified helmet.
- Machine washable , a novelty in the airbag vest category; recommended for a maximum of 4 washes on a delicate cycle at 30°C with the dedicated Freejump kit.
- Made in France and SPOGA Horse Top Innovations 2026 award , designed and sewn in Freejump's workshop in Bordeaux, each piece individually tested. Available at Equishop for 2,629 PLN, sizes XS-L. The vests are not available in an extended version, unlike the basic Freejump airbag vest model.
Table of Contents
- What is the Freejump Plume airbag vest and what makes it special?
- How an airbag vest works - step-by-step activation mechanism
- NF S72-800-2022 Standard - what standard applies to airbag vests?
- Tubeless and seamless construction - what the new generation really means
- Airbag vest vs. rigid protector - does one replace the other?
- How to choose the size and fit the Plume vest
- Safety in practice - training, cross-country, competitions, and transport
- Safety for children and young riders
- CO2 cartridge - how it works and when to replace it
- Care, washing, and service - how to care for the Plume vest
- Is it worth investing in the Freejump Plume vest?
- Common mistakes made by riders
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary
What is the Freejump Plume airbag vest and what makes it special?
Falling from a horse sooner or later happens to almost every rider, and the torso, spine, and neck are among the areas at highest risk of serious injury. Therefore, the airbag vest has ceased to be a gadget for athletes and has become an essential part of the daily equipment for recreational riders, competitors, and parents caring for their children.
Freejump Plume is the French brand's answer to the question riders have been asking for years: can real protection be combined with comfort that doesn't diminish the joy of riding? This model belongs to the latest generation of airbag vests and is one of the first on the market designed to solve two historical problems in this category: excessive weight and the inability to wash.
The result of this engineering work has been recognized beyond the brand itself. The Plume won the SPOGA Horse Top Innovations 2026 award, one of the most prestigious distinctions in the equestrian industry, given to products that genuinely change the market. This signals that we are not dealing with just another variation of a known design, but with a new philosophy of rider protection design.
What specifically differentiates the Plume from classic airbag vests and why is the launch of this model an event, not a routine expansion of the product line? The answer lies in three areas: its operating principle, material construction, and compliance with the latest safety standard. Let's go through them one by one.
How an airbag vest works - step-by-step activation mechanism
The principle of an airbag vest is simple, and its effectiveness relies on speed. The vest is connected to the saddle by a lanyard with a carabiner . As long as the rider is in the saddle, the lanyard remains loose and does nothing. The moment the rider is violently separated from the saddle, i.e., in the initial phase of a fall, the lanyard tightens and pulls out a pin, activating the mechanism.
This activation punctures a gas cartridge, which in a fraction of a second fills the vest's air chambers. A rigid cushion forms around the torso, spine, chest, and neck, increasing the body's protective circumference and cushioning the impact with the ground or an obstacle. In the Plume model, full inflation takes approximately 90 milliseconds , which is faster than an eye blink and faster than the rider can hit the ground after losing balance.
The key zones protected by the system upon activation are:
- thoracic and lumbar spine,
- chest and ribs,
- kidney area,
- collarbones and upper shoulders,
- neck and cervical area, thanks to the inflatable collar.
It's important to understand the fundamental difference in the philosophy of protection. An airbag vest works dynamically, protecting only when truly needed. During normal riding, it remains light and flexible, not restricting breathing or freedom of movement in the saddle. Protection only appears at a critical moment. This is the opposite of a classic foam protector, which constantly surrounds the body with a layer of rigid material.
The most common mistake at this stage is the belief that the airbag "knows" when the rider falls. The system only reacts to the lanyard being pulled from the saddle, so correct attachment and proper lanyard length are essential conditions, without which all the technology remains useless. We will return to this topic in the section on common mistakes.
NF S72-800-2022 Standard - what standard applies to airbag vests?
This question comes up very often today and deserves a precise answer. Equestrian airbag vests are regulated by the French standard NF S72-800, in its current version from 2022 (NF S72-800-2022). France was the first country in the world to introduce a standard covering the production of equestrian airbags, classifying them as personal protective equipment (PPE).
Why does this matter to you as a buyer? Because until this standard was created, the airbag vest market was virtually unregulated. Manufacturers declared their own protection levels, and comparing models was impossible. The NF S72-800-2022 standard defines three key parameters: the minimum protective surface that an inflated airbag must cover, the required inflation speed, and significantly stricter impact tests for the vest.
The Freejump Plume not only meets this standard, it exceeds its requirement for activation time. Inflation in approximately 90 ms places this model above the legally required threshold, which translates into a real safety margin in the event of a fall.
When purchasing an airbag vest, it is therefore advisable to follow a simple rule: look for information about compliance with the NF S72-800-2022 standard in the product description. If the manufacturer does not specify any standard, it is not a lack of formality, but a lack of verifiable guarantee of protection. Certification is the only objective point of reference we have today, and that is precisely why Equishop emphasizes it in the product description for every airbag vest.
Tubeless and seamless construction - what the new generation really means?
Here begins what makes Plume a groundbreaking product, not just another one. A classic airbag vest is built with an outer shell and an internal air bladder (in the manufacturer's terminology: bladder) , which is what fills with gas. This construction is effective but has its limitations: it is heavier, thicker, breathes less well, and is practically impossible to wash.
Freejump, with the Plume model, took a completely different approach. The construction is tubeless (without an internal air bladder) and seamless. Instead of a separate bladder, a multi-layered material joined by ultrasonic welding is used. The gas itself fills chambers created directly within the textile structure.
What does this mean for the rider in practice? Three measurable benefits:
- At least 25% lower weight compared to a traditional airbag . During a long training session or a full day at a competition, this difference directly translates to less fatigue and better concentration.
- Ultra-thin and breathable profile , the vest adds less bulk under clothing, making it look discreet and preventing overheating on warmer days.
- Washable , a direct consequence of eliminating the bladder, which will be discussed further in the care section.
The Plume is also 100% designed and manufactured in France, in Freejump's workshops in Bordeaux, using textiles produced in France. Each unit is individually tested before leaving the factory; this is not a marketing declaration but an element of the quality control process described by the manufacturer. For the rider, this means consistency: the vest you buy has been checked as an individual item, not just as a production batch.
Airbag vest vs. rigid protector - does one replace the other?
This is one of the most important misunderstandings to clear up before you decide to buy. An airbag vest does not replace a rigid protector (body protector); it is a complementary layer, not an alternative.
The difference lies in the nature of protection. A rigid foam protector provides constant protection from the first second, dispersing impact energy regardless of whether the lanyard has detached or not. An airbag protects dynamically and covers a larger area (including the neck and nape), but only after proper activation. These two systems do not compete; they complement each other.
This has a direct impact on regulations. In eventing cross-country, federation rules mandate the use of a rigid protector, and the airbag vest serves as an additional layer, most often worn over the protector. According to the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) approach to rider safety, layered protection yields the best results in high-risk disciplines. Before you compete, always check the current rules of your discipline; PZJ and FEI regulations are updated, and requirements for cross-country differ from those for show jumping or dressage.
The most common mistake? Treating the airbag vest as the sole protection and forgoing a protector because the airbag will "work anyway." In a scenario where the horse falls on the rider without dislodging them from the saddle, the lanyard might not tension in time, and then only what you are wearing constantly provides protection. Therefore, always consider the airbag as part of a comprehensive system: a certified equestrian helmet , an appropriate protector or traditional protective vest , and only then the airbag vest.
How to choose the size and fit the Freejump Plume airbag vest?
Even the best technology will not work optimally if the vest is poorly fitted. Correct fitting is essential for the effectiveness of any airbag vest ; one that is too loose will not work properly upon activation, and one that is too tight will restrict breathing and comfort in the saddle.
To choose the right size for the Plume, measure three values: chest circumference, waist circumference, and torso length from the base of the neck to the waist. Freejump designs the Plume in cuts adapted to the body shape, and the strap system allows for precise adjustment of the vest to individual body contours, even when you wear a thin competition shirt or training jacket underneath. At Equishop, the model is available in sizes XS to L in black.
A correctly fitted vest should hug the body but not compress. You should be able to breathe deeply and perform a full range of motion in the saddle. If the vest moves around on your torso or rides up in a riding position, it's too big. If you feel pressure when taking a deep breath, it's too small.
The most common mistake when buying online is guessing the size based on everyday clothing size. Airbag vests have their own size charts, and it's important to stick to measurements rather than habits. If you have any doubts, seek advice; at Equishop, we will help you match the model to your body type and discipline, and if you want to see the vest live, we invite you to our store at Oświęcimska 9 in Ruda Śląska.
Safety in practice - training, cross-country, competitions, and transport
The value of an airbag vest is best seen when we translate it into specific situations in a rider's life.
Daily training. This is where you spend most of your time in the saddle, and statistically, where most falls occur, often when working with a young or excitable horse. The lightness of the Plume is paramount here: a vest that weighs a quarter less can be worn for every ride, not just on special occasions. And protection only works when you actually wear it.
Cross-country riding. Riding cross-country means uneven ground, unexpected reactions from the horse, and a hard landing in case of a fall. The universal lanyard system allows the Plume to be attached to most jumping, dressage, and eventing saddles, so the vest is also effective outside the arena.
Competitions. The discreet, thin design allows Plume to be worn under competition clothing. The manufacturer declares compatibility with over 20 brands of equestrian clothing certified according to the NF S72-800-2022 standard, among which is Pikeur, which we offer. These are show jackets and tailcoats designed not to restrict the inflating airbag. Important: always confirm compatibility on the clothing label, as this is where the manufacturer places information on whether a given model works with an airbag vest. If you have any doubts, Equishop experts will be happy to advise you and check compatibility for you. This solution is appreciated by top-level competitors; Freejump vests are chosen by leading international show jumpers, including Martin Fuchs, Kevin Staut, and Pénélope Leprévost.
Horse transportation. Although the airbag vest is designed for riding, safety awareness doesn't end when you dismount. Loading and unloading a horse are among the riskiest moments of the day; a horse in the confined space of a trailer can react violently. The airbag vest will not work here as it would in the saddle (without a lanyard connection, there is no activation), so when working with a horse from the ground, technique, calmness, and rigid torso protection are paramount. It's important to distinguish between these two contexts: an airbag is for riding protection, while transport safety is built differently.
Safety of children and young riders
For a parent, the safety of their child in the saddle is paramount, and rightly so. A young rider has weaker core muscles, less experience in controlling a fall, and a greater tendency to react violently to unexpected horse behavior. An additional, dynamic layer of protection is particularly justified here.
Freejump also offers Plume in children's sizes, and in the Equishop offer, you will also find children's Freejump airbag vests in other construction variants. For children, the fit principle is even more important than for adults: a child grows quickly, so the vest must be regularly checked for girth and torso length, rather than buying one too large. An oversized vest on a child genuinely reduces the effectiveness of protection.
The psychological aspect is equally important. An additional layer of protection increases the sense of security, which positively influences the learning process; a child who feels more confident learns faster and more willingly. The same applies to adults returning to riding after a break or a fall, for whom an airbag vest can be an element in rebuilding confidence in the saddle.
The most common mistake parents make? Buying a vest without a helmet, or vice versa. Head protection and torso protection are an inseparable set; in fact, the Freejump riding helmet works with the inflatable Plume collar, enhancing cervical spine protection.
CO2 cartridge - how it works and when to replace it?
The gas cartridge is the heart of the entire system; without it, the vest is just a piece of fabric. When the lanyard is pulled, the cartridge is punctured, and the compressed gas instantly fills the air chambers. After each activation, the cartridge must be replaced with a new one; this is a basic maintenance task that you can perform yourself.
When exactly should you replace the cartridge? In three situations:
- After each activation of the vest, even if it was an accidental activation, e.g., when you dismounted, forgetting to unclip the lanyard.
- If the cartridge has lost its seal, regularly check its condition and mounting.
- After the expiration date has passed, CO2 cartridges have an expiry date, which should be checked, especially before the competition season.
At Equishop, original cartridges are available in three capacities, selected according to the size and model of the vest: 50 cc cartridge, 60 cc cartridge, and 85 cc cartridge. It's worth having a spare cartridge in your equipment bag, so after an unexpected activation, you can return to riding the same day instead of waiting for delivery.
The most common mistake is using a cartridge of the wrong capacity or installing it incorrectly. The cartridge must be selected for a specific model, so always make sure you purchase the variant intended for your vest, and carry out the installation exactly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Care, washing and servicing - how to care for the Freejump Plume airbag vest?
This is an area where Plume truly changes the game. Until now, airbag vests were practically impossible to wash, and yet equipment worn close to the body, in the dust of the arena and sweat, quickly loses its freshness. Plume is one of the first airbag vests designed for machine washing.
However, the rules are specific and must be followed:
- Machine washing should be done on a delicate cycle at a low temperature of 30°C, using a dedicated Freejump kit (washing bag and gas generator plug) and recommended detergent tested by the manufacturer.
- The manufacturer recommends a maximum of 4 machine washes over the entire lifespan of the vest; this is not clothing to be washed after every training session, but protective equipment that should be washed only when truly necessary.
- For routine freshening between washes, use Freejump vest cleaning foam, which removes dirt and neutralizes odors without affecting the pneumatic elements.
- Storage: keep the vest in a dry, airy place, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. The vest should not be crushed or forcibly folded; ideally, store it hanging, just as it is presented in the store. With every purchase at Equishop, you receive a dedicated hanger to facilitate this.
A separate topic is servicing. Freejump recommends having Plume inspected in three cases: after 3 years of use, after 20 activations, or after any serious fall. The inspection verifies that the system is working correctly and provides optimal safety. For the first 12 months after purchase, the inspection is free; thereafter, it is paid. Additionally, the manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty for manufacturing defects, which can be extended to 4 years by registering the product on the Freejump website—a simple step worth remembering immediately after purchase.
Is it worth investing in the Freejump Plume vest?
This is the question that ultimately determines the purchase. The answer depends on how often you ride and how much spinal safety is worth to you, but let's look at it objectively.
Plume solves two problems that previously made riders reluctant to wear an airbag daily: weight and hygiene. A vest that is a quarter lighter is a vest you actually put on for every ride. A washable vest is a vest you want to wear close to your body. And the best protection is the one you are wearing at the moment of a fall, not the one left in the closet because it was too heavy or stale.
Additionally, it complies with the NF S72-800-2022 standard with room to spare, received the SPOGA 2026 award, is manufactured in France with individual testing of each piece, and has an extensive service and warranty system. At a price of 2,629 PLN, you receive top-tier technological equipment which, as the product description aptly puts it, pays for itself with the first unexpected fall.
Who will Plume be the best choice for? For the sport rider who needs discreet protection under competition attire; for the ambitious recreational rider who rides regularly and wants to wear an airbag without compromising comfort; for a parent looking for real protection for their child; and for someone returning to riding who is rebuilding confidence in the saddle. The full range can be found in the airbag protective vests category in the Equishop store, and the premiere model itself on the Freejump Airbag Plume product page.
Most common mistakes made by riders
Even the best protective equipment will only work if used correctly. Here are the mistakes that most often reduce the effectiveness of an airbag vest in practice:
- Forgetting to attach the lanyard to the saddle. Without the lanyard attached, the vest cannot detect a fall. This is mistake number one; get into the habit of checking the lanyard every time you mount.
- Incorrect lanyard length. Too short will activate with normal movement in the saddle, too long may not activate in time. Adjust it according to the recommendation for your discipline.
- Incorrect vest size. Too loose will not fit snugly and loses effectiveness, too tight restricts breathing. Choose based on measurements, not by eye.
- Treating the airbag as the only protection. In eventing cross-country, a rigid back protector is mandatory, and in every discipline, a certified helmet. The airbag is a supplementary layer.
- Neglecting the CO2 cartridge. A lack of a spare cartridge, an expired cartridge, or one not replaced after activation means a vest that looks ready but will not work.
- Skipping service inspections. After a serious fall, 20 activations, or 3 years, the vest requires inspection; otherwise, you cannot be sure the system is still working.
- Dismounting without detaching the lanyard. This causes unnecessary activation and cartridge depletion; remember to unclip the carabiner before dismounting.
- Crushing the vest during storage. Forcibly folded or stuffed into a bag, it loses its structure; store it hanging on a dedicated hanger.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the Freejump Plume airbag vest work?
The vest is connected to the saddle by a lanyard with a carabiner. When the rider is violently separated from the saddle, the lanyard pulls a pin that punctures the gas cartridge. In about 90 ms, the gas fills the air chambers, creating a rigid cushion that protects the spine, chest, kidneys, and neck.
What standard applies to equestrian airbag vests?
Airbag vests for riders are regulated by the French standard NF S72-800, currently in the 2022 version. It specifies the minimum protective surface area, inflation speed, and rigorous impact tests. Freejump Plume meets this standard and exceeds its requirement for activation time.
Does an airbag vest replace a rigid back protector ("turtle shell")?
No. An airbag is a supplementary layer, dynamically activated during a fall. In eventing cross-country, regulations require the use of a rigid back protector, and the airbag vest serves an additional role. The best protection is a combination of both systems with a certified helmet.
How do I choose the size of the Freejump Plume vest?
The size is selected based on chest circumference, waist circumference, and torso length. The vest should fit snugly but not restrict breathing or movement in the saddle. At Equishop, Plume is available in sizes XS-L, and our advisors will help you choose the model that fits your body shape and discipline.
Can the Plume vest be washed?
Yes. Plume is one of the first airbag vests suitable for machine washing, on a delicate cycle at 30°C, with a dedicated Freejump kit. The manufacturer recommends a maximum of 4 washes over the entire lifespan of the vest. A dedicated foam is used for routine cleaning.
When should the CO2 cartridge be replaced?
The cartridge should be replaced after each activation, loss of seal, and after the expiration date. It is advisable to have a spare cartridge in your equipment bag to return to riding the same day after an unexpected activation. The cartridge must be selected for the specific vest model.
How long does it take for the Plume vest to inflate?
Full inflation takes approximately 90 milliseconds, faster than the rider can touch the ground after losing balance. This result exceeds the requirement of the NF S72-800-2022 standard.
Does Plume fit under a show coat or competition jacket?
Yes. Its discreet, ultra-thin design allows Plume to be worn under clothing. The manufacturer declares compatibility with over 20 brands of equestrian clothing certified according to the NF S72-800-2022 standard, including Pikeur. Always confirm compatibility on the clothing label, and if in doubt, Equishop advisors will check it for you.
Is the Plume vest suitable for children?
Yes. Freejump offers Plume in children's sizes, and Equishop also offers other variants of children's Freejump airbag vests. For children, regular fit checks are particularly important, as an oversized vest reduces the effectiveness of protection.
How often should an airbag vest be serviced?
Freejump recommends a service inspection after 3 years of use, after 20 activations, or after any serious fall. The first 12 months after purchase, the inspection is free. The warranty can be extended from 2 to 4 years by registering the product on the manufacturer's website.
How should an airbag vest be stored?
Store the vest in a dry, airy place, away from heat and sunlight. It should not be crushed or forcibly folded; it is best to hang it unfolded. Every purchase at Equishop includes a dedicated hanger to facilitate proper storage.
How does Plume differ from a classic airbag vest?
Plume features a tubeless and seamless design, without an internal air bladder, made from a multilayer material joined by ultrasonic welding. This makes it at least 25% lighter, thinner, more breathable, and washable, which older generations of airbags did not allow.
Summary
The Freejump Plume is not just another variant of a known vest, but a new generation of rider protection. The tubeless and seamless design solves two problems that for years discouraged riders from wearing an airbag daily: excessive weight and the inability to wash it. The result is a vest you actually put on for every ride, not just for competitions.
From a practical point of view, the most important recommendations are simple. Firstly, always treat the airbag as part of a system, along with a certified helmet, and in eventing cross-country, also with a rigid back protector. Secondly, fit and lanyard attachment determine effectiveness more than any technical parameter; the best airbag will not work if it is too loose or the lanyard is not detached. Thirdly, monitor cartridges and inspections; have a spare cartridge, replace it after every activation, and send the vest for servicing at recommended intervals.
If you are looking for equipment that combines the highest level of safety with comfort that allows you to wear it without compromise, Plume is currently one of the strongest offerings on the market. Do you want to see the vest live, try on a size, and consult on your choice? We invite you to the Equishop store at ul. Oświęcimska 9 in Ruda Śląska; we will help you choose a model for your body shape, discipline, and riding style.
