February has arrived and while the weather may still be giving you those Winter blues, it won’t be long until the clocks ‘spring forward’ and we riders will suddenly start to feel the benefits of the lighter evenings again. Whilst a hack along the beautiful countryside provides many benefits for you and your horse, it’s also very important that you stay safe, no matter what time of the year it is.
How can I stay safe while out hacking?
Hi-Viz is a crucial way to enhance your safety and ensure you stand out on the road. It is important that both you and your horse wear at least one to two pieces of Hi-Viz whilst out hacking, as this will allow for any motorists to be aware of your presence.
According to the British Horse Society, studies have shown that Hi-Viz can give a driver an extra three seconds reacting time. That could be the valuable difference between the vehicle hitting you and your horse, or passing by safely.
What other advantages will I get from wearing Hi-Viz?
Hi-Viz is not just an essential during the Winter months, but all year round too. While it may not be the most stylish attire in your wardrobe, there are many instances in which Hi-Viz can be extremely beneficial.
Here are our lists of reasons why;
- If you have a fall whilst out hacking, you will be much more visible to any passing public, vehicles or emergency services.
- As many dog walkers use bridleways, wearing Hi-Viz will provide the dog owner with a much greater warning. This allows the owner enough time to either pick up their dog or attach them to a lead so that you can pass by safely.
- Losing your horse can happen! If your horse was to suddenly be spooked and then quickly decided to bolt off - you’d have a much better chance of finding them.
- Many riders hack in areas where game shoots are held. Wearing Hi-Viz will enhance your visibility to any shooters, whilst also increasing your’s and your horse’s safety at the same time.
- Having a hacking out party? Have fun but most importantly stay safe. If you or your friends get split up or left behind, your Hi-Viz will help each of you to stand out so that you can quickly find each other again.
You’ve been enjoying a lovely evening ride but it’s suddenly getting dark. Try not to panic! The reflective bands on your Hi-Viz will ensure you stand out to all road users so that you can make your way back to the yard safely.
- Make sure you’re covered! Some insurance companies include that ‘Hi-Viz should be worn’ within their small print.
Where can I buy Hi-Viz?
Horse and rider safety is a topic we are very passionate about here at MA.Grigg and we believe measures to maximise safety should be accessible to everyone. Therefore, our affordable range of bright and comfortable Hi-Viz means you can stay safe, without having to spend a total fortune. Why not visit our store, or view our wonderful collection online here? https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equine-and-pets/rider-12/hi-viz.html
What products should I go for?
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we can help! We have come up with a list of our top favourite Hi-Viz essentials to help you decide:
Hi-Viz Jackets:
- The Corrib Neon is a uni-sex special and a much-loved classic design that is both breathable and waterproof. The fluorescent shoulders and arms will help you to stand out, whilst the added fleece lining will provide extra warmth for those chillier days. The concealed hood and waterproof technology will also prepare you for any unpredictable weather, keeping you warm and dry all day long.
Link to The Corrib Neon: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/horseware-corrib-jacket-neon-yellow-navy.html
- The Women’s Charlotte Dujardin Volte is the perfect Hi-Viz jacket if you’re looking for one that combines safety with style. This jacket has been cleverly designed through engineered performance using laser technology to reduce seams on reflective detail and as a result, makes this ergonomic jacket incredibly waterproof and breathable. We also adore the shape of this design as the silhouette elegantly flows against the cadence of the body and is brought together by a luxury satin lining with a designer pattern. Not forgetting that gorgeous large hidden fishtail pleat, too!
Link to The Women’s Charlotte Dujardin Volte: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equisafety-charlotte-dujardin-volte-waterproof-jacket-yellow.html
- The Unisex Equisafety Polite Jacket is an eye-catching new addition to our collection and offers an incredible 360° of reflection. Also 100% waterproof and extremely breathable, this jacket is great for layering while the weather is still a little chilly and also provides excellent protection against any unexpected showers whilst out and about. We love how the lower back has been cleverly cut to allow it to fall over the saddle without it catching. A design feature every jacket should have!
Link to The Women’s Equisafety Polite Jacket: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equisafety-polite-light-weight-jacket.html
Matching brushing boots also available here: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equisaftey-polite-leg-boot.html
Harry Hall Breeches:
Our Harry Hall breeches have been considerably popular with our customers and it’s not hard to see why. With three different colours to choose from, these breeches are a super stylish design that offers large amounts of visibility and comfort. Which colour will you choose?
The Hi-Viz Pink: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/harry-hall-hiviz-breeches-pink.html
The Hi-Viz Yellow: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/harry-hall-hiviz-breeches-yellow.html
The Hi-Viz Black/Silver: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/harry-hall-hiviz-breeches-black-silver.html
Equisafety Mercury Rug:
Available in three different colours. This Equisafety Mercury Rug offers advanced reflective protection for you and your horse. Using EN20471 technically advanced reflective, soft touch fabric - this lightweight and 100% waterproof horse rug has taped seams and also uses Equisafety's vapour technology to give maximum breathability. The adjustable or removable neck strap is also an advantage for those who prefer not to have one. Find your perfect colour here:
Equisafety Mercury Rug Orange: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equisafety-mercury-rug-orange.html
Equisafety Mercury Rug Pink: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equisafety-mercury-rug-pink.html
Equisafety Mercury Rug Yellow: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equisafety-mercury-rug-yellow.html
Leg boots are also available to match. Find them here: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/equisafety-mercury-leg-boot-pink.html
Le Mieux High Visibility GP Square:
Designed for general purpose - this stunning Visibility Square by Le Mieux is new to our collection and meets the BS EN1150 safety standard. Ideal for use in low light or poor weather, moisture is wicked away quickly and efficiently, while the quality Bamboo lining offers revolutionary heat management, ensuring sweat is never a problem.
Link to Le Mieux High Visibility GP Square: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/le-mieux-high-visibility-gp-square-tangerine.html
Woof Wear Reflective Club Boot:
Ensure your horse stands out with these Woof Wear Reflective Club Boots - our best selling general-purpose brushing boot. Available in many different colours. These club boots are extremely light and flexible and are perfect for providing and maximising your horse’s protection against any knocks or brushing injuries. The 5.5mm PX closed cell neoprene provides warmth and comfort, while the recessed stitching and hard wearing strike pads help to prolong their wear and durability. Boots are sold in pairs and are suitable to be worn on both front and hind legs.
We love these blue coloured ones: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/woof-wear-club-brushing-boot-powder-blue.html
Follow this link to view the rest of our wonderful Woof Wear range: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/brands/brand-woof-wear.html
On a budget? Not to worry!
Our affordable collection of Equiflector and Hy Viz products are perfect for anyone who is on a budget. With items ranging from leg bands and reflective ear bonnet’s to Hy Viz tabard’s and flashing tail straps - we are sure you’ll find what you need here;
Hy Viz: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/brands/brand-hy.html
Equiflector: https://www.magrigg.co.uk/catalogsearch/result/?q=equi-flector
So, there you have it. MA.Grigg’s very own guide to Hi-Viz!
As horse and rider safety awareness is extremely important to us here at MA.Grigg, we hope this guide become’s a beneficial tool to all horse riders, whilst also helping us to spread the importance of Hi-Viz, not just to the equestrian community but to all road users and other members of the public, too.
Please remember that there is always a member of staff on hand in our equestrian department seven days a week. So, feel free to contact us if you have any further questions or concerns. Please don’t be a dark horse...excuse the pun! We are always more than happy to help!