Hélite saddle strap – safety and reliability for your equestrian airbag vest
The Hélite saddle strap is an essential accessory for all riders equipped with a Hélite or Privilège Equitation airbag vest. Designed to ensure a secure and optimal attachment for the equestrian airbag lanyard, it plays a central role in the efficient activation of your safety equipment during riding—whether in training, competition, or on a hack.
What is the hélite saddle strap for?
The HĂ©lite saddle strap serves as a reliable anchor point between the saddle and the connecting strap of your airbag vest. Positioned directly on the stirrup bars, its purpose is to ensure a quick and symmetrical deployment of your airbag in case of a fall, while avoiding the use of saddle rings which are not designed for this purpose.
Thanks to its discreet and adjustable design, it integrates easily with all types of saddles (jumping, dressage, all-purpose, and even trail saddles) without hindering the rider’s position or the horse’s movement. The dedicated carabiner allows you to quickly and simply attach the connecting strap that links your Hélite or Privilège Equitation airbag vest to the saddle.
- Ensures a strong and secure connection between your saddle and airbag vest
- Optimizes the airbag deployment by providing symmetrical tension in the event of a fall
- Fully compatible with Hélite and Privilège Equitation airbag vests
- Adapts to most saddles thanks to a simple adjusting system
Compatibility and installation of the hélite saddle strap
Compatibility: The Hélite saddle strap has been specifically designed to be used with airbag vests from Hélite and Privilège Equitation. It is not compatible with other airbag systems or accessories not approved by these manufacturers.
Installation: Installing the HĂ©lite saddle strap is possible in just a few steps, requiring no special tools or modification to your equipment:
- Remove your stirrup leathers from the saddle to access the stirrup bars under the flap.
- Thread the loops of the Hélite saddle strap through the stirrup bars so that they rest firmly against the saddle’s structure. This ensures optimal security, even under sudden pressure.
- Replace your stirrup leathers as usual, over the newly installed strap.
- Before mounting your horse, attach the connecting strap from your airbag vest to the carabiner of the HĂ©lite saddle strap. This provides a quick and secure connection, helping prevent any attachment errors.
- After your session, remember to unclip yourself from the saddle strap before dismounting to avoid accidental airbag deployment.
Why choose the hélite saddle strap?
The proper use of the Hélite saddle strap is essential for the rider’s safety when using an airbag vest. The force generated during a fall must be accurately transmitted to the vest’s cartridge to enable its rapid deployment. An incorrect fixation, such as to the saddle rings, can cause the rings to break or a failed airbag deployment—significantly increasing the risk for the rider in the event of a fall.
Adaptability: Thanks to its clever adjustment system, the Hélite saddle strap can be installed on the vast majority of saddles—jumping, dressage, all-purpose, trail, or leisure use. Just a few minutes are enough to achieve a secure and discreet attachment that does not hinder your riding or position.
Tips and usage precautions
- Essential accessory: Never use the connecting strap of your airbag vest alone, attached directly to the saddle rings. These anchoring points are not designed to withstand the force needed for deployment, and their failure would compromise your safety system’s effectiveness.
- Quality and materials: Made from high-strength nylon with reinforced stitching, the Hélite saddle strap offers optimal durability—even when subjected to frequent installation and removal, or to damp and dusty conditions.
- Regular maintenance: Always inspect your saddle strap before each ride. Check the stitching, look for any signs of wear, cuts, or excessive stretching, as well as the cleanliness and proper closure of the carabiner.
- Safety: If you spot deterioration, wear, or have doubts about the reliability of the strap, replace it immediately to ensure your safety.
Summary of key points
- Specifically designed for Hélite and Privilège Equitation airbag vests
- Easy attachment to most saddles via stirrup bars
- Built-in carabiner for quick connection of the lanyard
- Ensures reliable airbag deployment in the event of a fall
- Robust nylon material, reinforced stitching, and easy maintenance
- A must-have accessory for the safety of airbag vest users
In conclusion
The Hélite saddle strap is the central element that connects your personal protective equipment to your saddle, ensuring your airbag vest functions correctly at all times. Easy to install, discreet in use, and indispensable for rider safety—it is the go-to choice for all users of Hélite or Privilège Equitation airbag vests wanting to maximize safety in the saddle. Always remember to carry it and perform regular checks to fully enjoy each riding session with complete peace of mind. For optimal airbag deployment, also make sure to use an approved and suitable airbag cartridge.
