High vis gear is essential when hacking a horse and there are many products on the market to help you be as visible as possible. For four months, one of Your Horse’s testers used the Silva Flash Waterproof Exercise Sheet and Reflector Gilet, both from Hy Equestrian, out hacking. They assessed both high vis items for fit, effectiveness and value for money.
We also tested these items from the driver’s point of view.
By this we mean that the horse and rider, while wearing the Hy Equestrian gear, was viewed from the driver’s seat of a car. Testing was carried out on a private road and the horse was approached from in front and behind. The driver commented on what was noticeable to them from their perspective behind the wheel. The driver’s comments are also below.
Hy Equestrian Silva Flash Waterproof Exercise Sheet
Your Horse’s tester says: “This exercise sheet fits nicely; it wraps neatly around your saddle and fastens securely over the wither. It’s a good length and depth too.
“The reflective material glows white when light hits it and it seems to be effective on bright sunny days too. It also keeps your horse warm and dry, so is a good addition to your horse’s wardrobe.
“I think this is good value for money as it does a great job. I would recommend it.”
Sizes: 4ft 6in, 4ft 9in or 5ft
RRP £49.99
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Hy Equestrian Reflector Gilet
Your Horse’s tester says: “This is a great fitting gilet that you can wear comfortably over a long-sleeved top or t-shirt. The material is stretchy so it’s not restrictive when you’re riding.
“The length in the body is good — it’s a nicely cut gilet that looks good when you’re wearing it.
“The combination of fluorescent fabric and reflective strips works well and makes you clearly visible to other road users.
The addition of ‘Please Pass Wide and Slow’ printed on the back of the gilet appears to have the desired effect and I did notice a difference in the way our road users saw us and passed us.
“The gilet has two zip pockets, which are useful for your mobile phone and other bits. This is a good price for a practical and effective gilet for use on warmer days.”
Colours: Yellow or pink. Sizes: XS – XL
RRP £44.99
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Driver’s verdict
“I approached the horse and rider in my car both from behind and in front on a country lane. It was a dull day, and the yellow of the waistcoat was clearly visible from both directions and when I was far enough away to have plenty of time to brake.
“It was definitely the gilet that caught my eye rather than the exercise rug, which wasn’t that visible on the day of testing. Having said that, when the sun came out the reflective material on the exercise sheet did glow, which made it more noticeable when approaching the horse from behind.
“I would say that wearing this outfit made both horse and rider much easier to see.”
