I haven't worn my body protector in a couple of years, but then again, I haven't jumped for a couple of years. It's stiff as a board and very flat. If I were to start jumping again I would definately invest in a well-fitting, comfy body protector as I wouldn't like to hit the ground without one on! Save up for a really nice body protector, which will fit comfortably, and in the meantime keep telling yourself how important they are whilst jumping. The day you don't wear it may be the day you fall off and seriously injure yourself.

I know how you feel... i feel restricted when wearing a body protector. When you compete in cross country you have to wear a body protector. The rest of the time is up to you. If your horse is very safe and you trust him/her then great. If you know that he/she can be silly then a body protector is probably safer. You will know better than anyone how your horse behaves in different situations so you can judge when you should wear a body protector and when it's not neccessary. One thing i will say though is that body protectors can be uncomfortable but imagine how uncomfortable you would be with a broken hip. You just have to be sensible about it thats all. Hope this helps =) x