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let’s talk products
Riding hats and gloves
A riding hat and a good pair of gloves are necessities that no rider can do without. In today’s modern society it’s not just safety that riders are looking for – it’s comfort, style and practicality too. The law in the UK makes it illegal for children aged 14 and under to ride on the road without a hat that is at least up to EN1384 standards. One fall or drop of a hat is enough to damage it and therefore make it unsafe. Ensuring that you stress this to customers when selling and fitting hats is important – keeping a damaged hat in the shop as an example is a good idea. Under the regulations passed by the European technical committee, a current riding hat must have an adjustable threepoint harness and the liner must extend to the rim. Certified hats must hold the following marks of approval: EN1384 1996 / BSEN 1384 1997. Prior to that hats complied with: BS3686, BS6473:1984 and BS4472:1988. The BS prefix
symbolises that the hat has been tested in Britain. PAS015: 1998/ PAS015: 2011 was developed by the British Standards Institute (BSI). PAS stands for product approval specification. The choice of riding hat will be determined by the customer’s preference, however it is important for the customer to think about what they use the hat for as some hats offer additional safety features depending on their country of manufacture. The CE Mark is a mandatory declaration under EU law that represents compliance with essential requirements and the Kitemark or SEI means that the manufacturer has completed additional testing. Although protection is at the top of the list when it comes to hats;
style, ventilation, comfort and practicality are also key. While wearing a hat, riders should be able to see and hear clearly and should not feel like the hat is causing them discomfort. Many modern hats offer ventilation through slats or specialist materials such as Coolon that are designed to be breathable and lightweight. Anti-fungal and anti-odour agents are also a common feature, with memory foam, which moulds around the rider’s head for added comfort, increasing in popularity. When displaying hats, be sure to keep a selection of accessories such as hat bags, cleaners, silks and deodorisers near by.
All hands on deck A developing blister while
riding is a nuisance to any rider and will ultimately cause them discomfort. There are an array of gloves on the market offering a multitude of qualities such as extra grip, ventilation, easy cleaning and durability. A selection of fastenings from zips to touch and close straps or elastic allow manufacturers to cater to the customer’s specific needs. Materials such as deer and sheep skin offer a look of style, perfect for the show ring, while suede and synthetic materials can be used for general riding. Stocking a selection of gloves from the bottom of the line all the way to the top is important, as customers might decide to treat themselves to an expensive pair of gloves, but are likely to pick up a cheap pair too to avoid spoiling their new purchase.
Troxel Sierra Airowear
Champion Evolution Riding Hat Finest Brands International
Sizes: Small, medium, large Colours: Tan or black Materials/bindings: Suede & Cordura, softshell polystyrene, leather RRP: £76.00
Sizes: 6¼ - 7¾ Colours: Navy, black Materials/bindings: Glass fibre shell, shock absorbing polystyrene liner. RRP: £110 - £130
The Troxel Sierra, with a removable and washable lining is the highest quality helmet in Airowear’s product range. The helmet offers the best of both worlds with its lightweight and vented features coupled with a smart, streamlined and glamorous appearance. Certified to BSEN 1384 approved and ASTM F1163/SEI.
A development of the Champion Ventair hat, the Champion Evolution is a low profile, modern and lightweight hat founded upon a glass fibre shell. Covered in a soft and durable synthetic nubuck, the Champion Evolution hat incorporates an effective airflow system and a soft padded synthetic nubuck harness.Certified to PAS 015 1998 and BSEN1384 1996 and carries the BSI Kitemark.
Champion Grand Prix Riding Hat Finest Brands International
Champion Ventair helmet Finest Brands International
Sizes: 6¼ - 7¾ Colours: Navy, black Materials/bindings: Glass fibre reinforced shell, German velvet. RRP: £100 - £117
Sizes: 6¼ - 7¾ Colours: Pink, navy, silver, black Materials/bindings: Glass reinforced shell, polystyrene liner. RRP: £82 - £97
Designed for showjumpers, the Grand Prix Riding Hat is low profile, modern and lightweight. Founded upon a ventilated glass fibre reinforced shell, the Grand Prix is covered in fine, rich and durable German velvet for a luscious, deep finish. The harness is made from the softest padded leather and features a quick release clip buckle for ease of use and absolute security. Certified to PAS 015 1998 and BSEN1384 1996, the hat also carries the BSI Kitemark.
Champion’s extremely lightweight Ventair Helmet features a design registered ventilated airflow system that is styled to keep the head cool. The Ventair system also features a uniquely tailored harness and the BSI Kitemark, guaranteeing that it will comfortably outperform the four main areas of testing: penetration, shock absorption, harness strength and stability. The Ventair is certified to PAS 015 1998 and BSEN1384 1996.
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www.ebmonthly.co.uk
February 2012
Equestrian Business Monthly