The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) has warned against buying unfitted safety equipment for loved ones this Christmas, suggesting that although riding hats and body protectors make truly excellent gifts, it’s important that they’re fitted to the individual to ensure they do the best job they can.

“Helping to keep a loved one safe while they ride is the best gift, but we want to ensure that for everyone gifting a hat or body protector this year, it’s fitted properly to ensure comfort and performance day in, day out,” said Claire Williams, BETA’s executive director.

“This might mean a little creativity when it comes to what’s wrapped under the tree, and then a great excuse to hit your local tack shop after the big day and find the perfect product.”

BETA suggests that a voucher is a good alternative, but also wrapping a hat box so there’s something under the tree, decorating an old riding hat and presenting with a voucher, or even a hat silk or other supporting product with a note could be a good idea.

“We know that people want something under the tree to give, but ill-fitting hats are uncomfortable and potentially dangerous, and ill-fitting body protectors can even hinder riding,” said Ms Williams.

Another issue to consider is the standard of the hat, as each different equestrian sport has a list of permitted standards.

BETA is also urging people not to buy second safety equipment as gifts.

Ms Williams continued: “All safety kit has a life span and needs to be replaced at least every five years depending on wear and care, and whenever a hat sustains an impact, it needs to be replaced too as it can no longer do its job.

“When you buy second hand, you don’t know how it has been cared for, how often it’s been used, or if it’s been fallen on. This can give people a false sense of security, and no one wants to receive that under the tree this Christmas.”