Seriously, first impressions were very good; super looking with lovely breathable looking materials. Also super comfortable with vertical and horizontal adjusters, over the shoulders and around the body respectively. Very good instructions are included to assist in getting the right size for comfort and safety.

There is a good choice of subtle colours available and although this (navy with purple piping) was not my first choice of colour, due to sizing criteria I took this one for speed and really like it — in fact will try and get a hat silk to match.

We tried and tested the Champion Body Protector at Brigstock Horse Trials this weekend and I forgot I was wearing it. It was a very hot day but at the end of the cross country although very warm I did not feel as hot and sticky as in my old zip up body protector which only adjusted over the shoulders. I feel, having now ridden in it and looking at the pictures that I just need to lengthen a little through the shoulder adjusters for the perfect fit next time.

Really great product.

Through the combination of Champion’s ultra lightweight, multi layered nitrile foam, and the unique positioning of ventilation holes, the Champion FlexAir offers a supremely supple yet secure feel which actively moulds to the contours of the riders’ body. This high level of flexibility is perfect for any riding position and ensures the most comfortable fit possible to the protector. Champion believes that breathability is of the upmost importance in the performance of a body protector and the FlexAir offers an extraordinary level of breathability. Through the exclusive combination of the FlexAir’s foam ventilation holes and outer lining spacer fabric cover, Champion have created one of the most, if not the most breathable body protector ever seen on the market.

Stables, horses and long or intense rides can combine to create a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. In order to help combat such bacteria, the Champion FlexAir incorporates a high-tech Polygiene treated inner lining. Through the use of environmentally friendly silver ions, Polygiene kills bacteria on contact. In fact Polygiene is currently being used in British hospitals to help prevent the spread of MRSA and the powerful anti-bacterial and anti-odour properties of Polygiene help to keep the Champion FlexAir cleaner and fresher 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Approved to both the latest safety standards and with stunning good looks, the new Champion FlexAir will be the body protector of choice for both professional and amateur riders alike for 2009.

Sizes (nine sizes): Extra Small Child through to Extra Large Adult.
Available in Regular and Long Fit

Price from: £63 — £119 depending on size.