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If I Had a Riding Vest… Krystyna Wojtowicz's Story
Horseback riding is more than just a sport. For many, it's a way of life, a source of excitement, passion, and self-fulfillment. But it's also a risk —something we forget when we're on the back of a beloved horse, gliding through the arena or galloping through the forest. In this world, trust in your horse must go hand in hand with concern for your own safety while riding. Krystyna Wojtowicz knows this best.
Development
It started like any other day…
It was a quiet morning. Krystyna – an experienced rider, competitor, and woman who has dedicated her life to riding – was preparing to work with a young horse at the center. Horses are her daily life, her passion, but also a challenge. Especially young ones, full of energy and unpredictability.
Everything looked promising that day. The riding area? Perhaps not ideal, but manageable. The arena fence was far from safety standards, but routine had crept in, and attention was focused on the horse, not the surroundings.
The second that changed everything
The horse suddenly spooked and was uncontrollable. The fall didn't last long. But it ended tragically. Krystyna hit a steel fence post. Breathlessness, pain, and shortness of breath. The diagnosis was merciless: broken ribs, internal injuries, a damaged spleen. Surgery, spleen removal. Long months of rehabilitation. Lack of training, pain, frustration. A career cut short.
And one burning question: could all of this have avoided happening? If only she'd worn a vest…
Krystyna didn't need doctors or consultations to know the answer. If she had been wearing a protective horseback riding vest that day, everything would have turned out differently. Such a device could have mitigated the impact, protecting her chest and internal organs. A vest isn't a gadget—it's a lifesaver.
She wasn't wearing it. Why?
Memories and beliefs about vests were fresh in her mind – the beginnings of her career, working with young horses. Back then, vests were stiff, uncomfortable, and restricted movement. For someone who had to react quickly in the saddle, they were practically a hindrance. Back then, few riders used protection, considering it unnecessary. Krystyna was no exception.
This belief endured for years… until that one day.
Technology changes everything
Today, Krystyna speaks openly about it: "If I were to start riding now, my first purchase – right after a helmet – would be a bomb vest ." And that's no exaggeration. Modern solutions are lightweight, form-fitting, and above all, they don't restrict movement. You can train, gallop, jump, and not even feel like you're wearing one.
Airbag vests inflate with air in a fraction of a second, creating a cushioning barrier for the rider's body. They protect the spine, chest, abdomen, and neck. This solution revolutionizes horseback riding safety – both in competitions and in everyday training.
Krystyna knows the price she paid for not protecting herself. And she doesn't want others to make the same mistake.
Safety is a choice
Today, Krystyna has returned to riding. She's back on horseback, more cautious, more aware. A vest? It's always with her. Without exception. Because she knows that even on a calm horse, even in a familiar arena, unexpected circumstances can arise. Horseback riding is a risky sport that requires preparation – both physical, which is what Krystyna does in the Fit on Horse project , and equipment.
Click on the link and listen to Krystyna Wojtowicz's statement.
Summary
Krystyna Wojtowicz's story isn't a warning—it's a reminder that everyone, regardless of their skill level, should take care of their safety . A safety vest should be as natural an element of their attire as a helmet. And when choosing an airbag model, keep a few key things in mind:
- Each vest requires the appropriate cartridges – their quantity and size depend on the specific model and size of the vest. This information can always be found on the product page in the Equishop store.
- The offer also includes all the necessary accessories: mounting strap, cleaning kits and spare parts.
- If you have any doubts, please visit our Equishop store at ul. Oświęcimska 9, Ruda Śląska , where our specialists will help you choose a vest that perfectly suits your figure, riding style, and skill level.
Don't skimp on safety. Horseback riding is supposed to be fun—but only if you're well protected.
