How to use your Horse Pilot airbag correctly: instructions for use
Because your safety on horseback is a priority, Horse Pilot provides this practical guide to help you use its two airbag models. Whether you are an amateur or experienced rider, this article will help you master the correct movements from the very first time you use your airbag, so you can ride with confidence and in the best possible conditions.
Find Horse Pilot airbags here.
Twist’Air Airbag :
Discover all the steps required to install your Twist'Air airbag and use it for the first time.
ATTACH THE LEASH TO THE SADDLE
1. First, remove the stirrup straps from your saddle.
2. Pass the two loops of the leash through the saddle knives and replace the stirrup straps. Make sure that both straps of the leash are securely fastened.
3. Once the leash is attached to the saddle, you do not need to remove it; it can remain on your saddle.
ATTACH THE LEASH TO YOUR AIRBAG VEST
4. Once you are on the horse with your vest on, connect the leash to your airbag vest. To do this, attach the automatic attachment system (red) to the strap protruding from your vest. This patented magnetic attachment system is very easy to attach and detach from your vest.
Remember to detach the Leash from your airbag vest when you dismount from the horse to prevent the airbag from activating.
ADJUST THE LENGTH OF THE LEASH
5. The Leash must be completely taut when you are standing in the stirrups. You can adjust the length of the Leash by sliding it through the loop.
You can also refer to the table below, using the height of the horse at the withers to adjust the length of the Leash. The length of the leash is measured between the ball and the junction of the two straps connected to the knives.
Make sure the leash is properly adjusted to allow the airbag to deploy correctly. Incorrect adjustment of the leash length may cause the airbag to deploy late.
E-Twist’Air Airbag :
How to use the electronic, leash-free airbag, E-Twist’Air by Horse Pilot?
Discover all the steps to set up and wear your E-Twist’Air vest correctly.
1. STARTING THE VEST
Download the In&motion app to your smartphone (available on iOS and Android).
Create a user account, then register your vest using the serial number inside.
Connect the vest to your phone via Bluetooth to activate the built-in system.
Make sure the In&motion gas refill is properly installed. A small click indicates that it is in place.
✅ A green LED also indicates that the vest is active and ready to operate.
2. PUT ON THE VEST CORRECTLY
Close all zips and Velcro fasteners to ensure a secure fit.
The vest must fit your body shape properly so that the protective areas cover your back, chest, abdomen, and neck correctly.
If you are wearing a jacket, make sure it is airbag compatible (at least 13 cm of clearance around the chest).
3. USE IT DURING YOUR RIDE
Once activated, the E-Twist'Air airbag automatically detects a fall thanks to its built-in sensors.
There is no need to connect it to the saddle: everything is self-contained.
Get on, work out, and get off without any additional steps.
💡 In the event of a fall, the airbag is automatically deployed in less than 0.1 seconds.
WHAT TO DO AFTER ACTIVATION?
Check the overall condition of the vest (no torn fabric or damage to the housing or connectors).
Deflate the airbag by pressing down on the tubes with your forearms.
Replace the piston and pin using the Allen key provided.
Replace the CO₂ refill with a new one (In&Motion brand only).
⚠ It is important to have your vest serviced every year or after 5 deployments, even if everything seems normal, to ensure it is working properly.
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR CARTRIDGE AND HOW?
The cartridge must be replaced after each airbag deployment (even if inflation appears to be partial). The cartridge must also be replaced every year if it has not been used.
Finally, it is important never to reuse a cartridge that has already been used.
To change your cartridge, you will need:
A new In&Motion cartridge (certified models only),
The Allen key supplied with the vest (located on the back of the case),
A clean, flat place to work
Steps to replace the cartridge:
1. Remove the used cartridge
Lay the vest flat.
Using your thumbs and index fingers, slide the two latches on the case downwards.
Gently lift the cartridge by pressing with your thumb under the case.
2. Unscrew the safety cap
Use the Allen key to unscrew the cap on top of the case.
Stop as soon as “STOP” appears.
If you see red, screw it back in slightly.
3. Re-arm the system
Gently push the piston down with the Allen key until its hole is aligned with the hole in the casing.
Insert the metal pin into the hole in the piston.
Hold it in place with your finger and screw the cap back on until the arrows are aligned.
4. Install the new cartridge
Clip the new cartridge onto the housing until you hear a “click.”
Replace the rubber band to hold it in place.
⚠ Actions to never perform with the cartridge:
Never attempt to repair a cartridge.
Do not pierce or heat it.
Do not use a cartridge from another brand or model.
Keep out of reach of children and do not expose to temperatures above 45°C.
