Airbag FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both Horse Pilot airbags provide full upper-body protection: chest, back, neck, and abdomen. The main difference lies in the deployment system.
- The Twist’Air operates via a mechanical system connected to the saddle by a strap. In the event of a fall, the tension on the strap releases the trigger ball, which activates the airbag’s inflation.
- The E-Twist’Air, on the other hand, uses electronic technology developed by In&motion. A smart unit analyzes the rider’s movements in real time and automatically triggers the airbag when a fall is detected. This system operates wirelessly, offering total freedom of movement.
To choose the right size, please refer to the size guide available on our product pages.
Horse Pilot airbags are available in several sizes:
- Adults: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Children: XXS-J, XS-J
To choose the right size, consider:
- your height
- your chest circumference
- your waist circumference
The vest should fit snugly without being too tight to ensure optimal deployment.
Yes, regular maintenance is recommended:
- Twist’Air: every 2 years or 5 activations (via In&motion)
- E-Twist’Air: every 5 years or 8 activations (via Horse Pilot)
This maintenance ensures that the system operates at its best.
Proper adjustment of the harness is essential to ensure optimal deployment.
The length should allow for freedom of movement while riding, with no tension in the normal riding position. The harness should only tighten in the event of a fall.
Horse Pilot airbags are designed to protect the rider’s most vulnerable areas:
- the neck
- the chest and ribs
- the spine
- the abdomen
The system inflates very quickly to form a protective cushion around the torso.
Yes. All Horse Pilot airbags are manufactured in France and comply with the NF S72-800:2022 standard, which sets performance requirements for equestrian airbags.
This standard guarantees, in particular:
- deployment speed
- protection zone
- inflation pressure
- material strengthYes. All Horse Pilot airbags are manufactured in France and comply with the NF S72-800:2022 standard, which sets performance requirements for equestrian airbags.
This standard guarantees, in particular:
- deployment speed
- protection zone
- inflation pressure
- material strength
No. It is important to use only cartridges that are compatible with your airbag model.
The cartridges are specifically designed with the appropriate weight and seal. Using an incompatible cartridge could interfere with the proper functioning of the system.
A riding airbag works using a CO₂ cartridge.
On mechanical models like the Twist’Air, a strap connects the vest to the saddle. During a fall, the distance between the rider and the saddle becomes abnormal: the pin is released, the cartridge is triggered, and the airbags inflate instantly.
Inflation occurs in a fraction of a second, ensuring protection is active before impact.
Non. Les airbags Horse Pilot sont conçus pour offrir une grande liberté de mouvement.
Les matériaux utilisés sont stretch, respirants et légers, ce qui permet au cavalier de conserver une position naturelle à cheval. La coupe est également étudiée pour éviter toute gêne ou remontée du gilet.
Yes, but only if the garment is compatible with an airbag.
It is essential that the airbag be able to deploy freely in the event of a fall. Horse Pilot garments are designed and tested to ensure optimal compatibility with our airbags.
However, we cannot guarantee compatibility with equipment from other brands.
An airbag does not have a limited lifespan, provided that:
- you follow the maintenance schedule
- you use it under normal conditions
The cartridges must be replaced after each deployment, but the vest can be reused immediately.
Yes, in most cases.
Wearing a back protector under an airbag is generally not necessary and can reduce comfort.
⚠️ Exception: In motocross, a certified back protector is still required.
After deployment, the CO₂ cartridge must be replaced.
Generally, all you need to do is:
- unscrew and remove the used cartridge
- check the overall condition of the vest
- install a new cartridge
On the Twist’Air, no re-folding of the cushion is necessary.
(Re-folding applies only to first-generation airbags with a screw system.)
Just like with a seatbelt, fastening and unfastening the strap quickly becomes second nature.
If you forget to unfasten it, a strong pull can trigger the airbag. A force of approximately 25 to 30 kg is required to release the pin, thereby limiting accidental deployment.
Yes. The E-Twist’Air works with an In&Box, which is available for purchase or rental through In&motion.
Renting ensures that your system is always up to date, with ongoing improvements to fall detection.