Charles Owen JL9 Vest
5
5
9
9
Solid Vest
This vest is solid and not too heavy. The range of motion is good. I would feel secure in it, but it is not Beta 3 approved. It is certified at ASTM level. If you don't need the higher rating you should try this.
I say try because vests can be hard to fit. I tried four vest before buying. This vest in small was too big. I tried two other smalls and a teen ex large. I finally got a vest that is Beta 3 certified and comes in many women's sizes.
I am an adult rider training a young horse. I will use it for daily riding and eventing when we're ready.
March 27, 2013
sadly had to return
Very nice vest. Many "barn buddies" wear this vest where I ride. I am an adult, medium build and 5'2" tall. This vest was too long for my body. It would have hit the saddle as I rode. So, if you are somewhat short this vest will not work for you.
March 21, 2013
very comfortable vest
I've tried others and found this one to be very comfortable. It is snug and yet I can breathe and bend!
March 19, 2013
Love it!
I didn't expect to be a rider using a protective vest. After all, I'm a dressage rider and just how much trouble can we get in to? Then I found myself hugging Mother Earth when I least expected to. I researched vests and tried a few different ones on. I found the JL9 to have the ratings I wanted and the comfort I needed. I don't even realize I'm wearing it when I'm riding. It doesn't get in the way of sitting the trot. I also like the look because it gives a rather tailored look instead of a bulky appearance. Buy one.
February 6, 2013
Comfortable, non-restricting vest
This light-weight vest stands up well to 4x week use. Comfortable and non-restricting once your body heat warms the gel up a little bit. Fits well under a Carhartt jacket during the cold months, but doesn't get suffocatingly hot during the summer (breathes well). It's BETA certified, which is why I chose it over the Tipperary. I haven't fallen off yet (fingers crossed!) with it on, so I can't speak to that. I did have to go down a size though, as they tend to run large.
January 8, 2013
This vest saved me!
I originally bought this for a pony club eventing rally for the XC part of it. The price isn't that bad compared to other vests. I was also debating to buy a Tipperary since it looked great, but this vest is BETA tested, unlike the Tipperary.
The vest was a bit big on me (I purchased a small), and I wish there was more adjustability on the sides, because the sides were kind of big. When I actually rode in it, it felt great! It didn't make me hot, and it wasn't bulky at all. Unfortunately, I took a fall in it the first time I rode in it, and thank god I had this vest, otherwise I might have broken my back! I just brushed the vest off, and it was good as new.
Overall, if you want a great vest, this is the one to get!
November 13, 2012