I discovered the rider gilet after using their specialist clavicle fracture gilet for my broken collarbone. I was so impressed at how fast my fracture healed and how much my posture had improved that I decided to buy the posture rider version. Now I don’t know what I’d do without it and recommend it to all those I coach.
Wear over a Lycra base layer, or over outer clothes, measure accordingly.
The Story Behind the EquiGilet
🌟From Injury to Innovation
🏆 An award-winning, clinically validated advanced scapulothoracic and spinal stabilisation system
The EquiGilet is championed by two of the four surgeons credited with establishing the field of modern shoulder surgery in Britain.
The EquiGilet is championed by two of the four surgeons credited with establishing the field of modern shoulder surgery in Britain.
Our journey into the equestrian area began with event rider Tina Canton. When Tina broke her collarbone, she used the brace (in its clavicular form) and was the first to recognise its profound potential for improving a riders riding position, inspiring the creation of the EquiGilet you see today.
Why It Outperforms Every Other Posture Aid This one-of-a-kind posture correction system goes far beyond simple support. Thanks to an arrangement of cleverly concealed components, it significantly aligns and improves posture more than any other device on the market.
Zero Stigma Design: The sleek gilet style completely removes the stigma associated with wearing traditional postural aids.
Zero Stigma Design: The sleek gilet style completely removes the stigma associated with wearing traditional postural aids.
Active Muscle Retraining: The EquiGilet provides immediate bio-feedback and actively retrains muscle structures.
No Dependency: It avoids creating dependency, instead enabling you to build muscle strength correctly and permanently improve your seat without the risk of injury.
Key Features
Biofeedback Training
Uses vital biofeedback to help you identify and correct postural weaknesses.
Lasting Benefits
Improves muscle functionality immediately, with new muscle memory retained even after removing the gilet.
Strength and Range
Integrated straps hold shoulders back, while unique foam scrolls protect blood flow and nerves when the straps are tightened.
Shoulder/Scapular Correction
Applies equal and opposite force front and back to firmly secure shoulder blades (scapular), strengthening shoulders and improving arm range.
Posture and Seat
Powerful integrated elements lift the diaphragm to prevent slouching, activating the core and freeing the hips. The result is an independent seat and lighter hand-to-horse contact.
Alignment and Stability
High-tensile plastic stays ensure spinal alignment. Wide hip pulls, featuring the 4DflexiSPORT motif, deliver pelvic stability.
Diagnostic Benefit
Features reflective back lines visually check and diagnose rider-horse symmetry/unlevelness.
Biofeedback & Correction
Grey suede lines at the front of each shoulder provide peripheral vision biofeedback, helping the rider correct "corkscrewing" or twisting on circles and corners.
Stability and Function
A broad internal stretch waist strap prevents the gilet from riding up when shoulder tension is applied.
Benefits
Posture Boost
Biofeedback teaches you how correct posture should feel. This neuro-reset establishes new muscle memory, allowing you to maintain good posture independently.
Core Activation
The unique diaphragm lift creates vital rib-to-hip distance, instantly activating the core and strengthening movement. COPD sufferers, report significant breathing improvement.
Confidence After Injury
Helps rebuild strength as part of your rehabilitation, giving you the confidence to successfully return to riding after injury.
80% Less Boob Bounce
Large busts cause chronic pain and tissue damage, especially for riders. The EquiGilet reduces bust movement by up to 80%—distributing weight evenly across the shoulders and spine.
Streamline Training
By managing your posture automatically, your trainer is free to focus attention entirely on improving your riding skills and the horse's performance.
Credentials and Core Concept
Backed by a tried-and-tested method for achieving optimal posture and riding symmetry, our approach recognises that imbalance in one area affects the whole kinetic chain.
Developed in collaboration with Professor Angus Wallace and Mr. Ian Bayley—two surgeons instrumental in establishing modern shoulder surgery in Britain—and gratefully supported by Team GB Equestrian.
Aches, Pains And Injury Recovery
BACK PAIN
Scoliosis, Sciatica, Fibromyalgia, Sacroiliitis, Isthmic Spondylolisthesis, Spinal stenosis, Post-operative spinal surgery recovery, Spinal Osteoarthritis (Spondylosis), Vertebral compression fractures, Radiculopathy, Arthritis Sprains, Strains and aches caused by general wear and tear.
SHOULDER PAIN
Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Bursitis, Tendonitis, Instability (that can lead to repeated shoulder dislocations),
Swimmer's shoulder, Adhesive capsulitis,
Acromioclavicular joint problems,
Rotator cuff tears, Impingement,
Shoulder blade instability also known as Winging Scapular,
Osteoarthritis - degenerative joint disease, Shoulder sprains, strain, wear and tear, Arthritis.
SPINAL ISSUES
Herniated disc, Bulging disc, Degenerative disc, Disc Desiccation, Thinning disc, Annular Tear, Disc Extrusion, Spinal Stenosis, Scoliosis.
CORE STRENGTH
Core muscles stabilize your spine and pelvis, enabling efficient strength transfer for more powerful movements.
Signs: Poor posture, slouching, and digestive disorders.
Causes: Surgery (e.g., hysterectomy, C-section), pregnancy (diastasis recti), injury, or inactivity.
INJURY
Use to support and build strength after injury and as part of a rehabilitation program. Can also be used to accelerate recovery, and importantly, provides physiological support giving you the confidence to get back on your horse again.
What You Say About Us,
Polly Holohan
Olympic Event Rider
I found the Rider Gilet absolutely essential in my recovery from a terrible rotational fall four years ago after I sustained multiple fractures, I certainly couldn't have got back to riding as quickly as I did without it. Now I use it as a posture maintenance tool and for keeping me at my absolute best in the saddle. Incidentally, it also helps me recover faster after competitions. I'm very happy to recommend the gilet to clients and means I can concentrate on their riding rather than nagging them about posture.
Sophie Fretwell
3* International Event Rider
I love the rider gilet I purchased. I'm so pleased to have found it after riding accidents along the way have left me with multiple joint and muscle issues, diaphragm damage, and hunched shoulders.
Arabella Mayo
Serving British Officer - Major with the Adjutant General's Corps and Centre 10 Advanced Coach.
After my collarbone was removed I thought my riding career was over. Since discovering the rider gilet some years ago it has been a real game-changer for me. It supports my shoulder and compensates for my lack of strength as a result of not having a collarbone. I wear it for training and under my body protector when competing and thanks to the gilet I have fulfilled my lifelong dream of competing at Badminton Horse Trials.
Louise Le Geyt
Winning Grassroots Event Rider
I have ridden in my gilet four times now and my lower back has zero pain after riding. I’ve not experienced this in years. My pain across my shoulders has reduced yet my upper leg muscles ache this is due to my new position I’m sure. My riding coach thought I was leaning to the right but the cross on the back showed that it was in fact, my horse that was dropping her hindquarters. The fit is very good and I feel it is beneficial to me and really helping with my horses' training too.
Jill Bowden
Website Review
FAQ's
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How do I fit the gilet correctly?
A step-by-step pictorial guide is included with each gilet. We also offer a free fitting service from our bases in Lincolnshire and Norfolk.
You could also watch our 'How to Fit' video. If you are still unsure about getting the most out of your gilet please call Barbara on 07968510452. I am happy to do a WhatsApp or Messenger video call and guide you through the fitting process.
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Sizing & Fit Guarantee?
Choosing the correct size is crucial. Please use our fitting guide to measure accurately.
If you're still unsure about your size, contact us at 07968 510 542 (WhatsApp, Messenger, or call).
Stretch side panels and a range of body length options ensure the best possible fit for both male and female body shapes. Our sizing is accurate, but if the fit isn't perfect, we guarantee we will persevere until it is.
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What is the rider gilet made of and where is it made?
The gilet is made from light technical fabrics uniquely airflow breathable to avoid overheating and exclusive to the 4DflexiSPORT brand. We do not use rubberised materials such as Neoprene. Like all of our products we proudly manufacture in Britain. -
Will I get dependent on the Rider Gilet and will it weaken my muscles?
Becoming dependent on support is a valid concern. Fear not, your gilet will not not weaken muscles nor make you dependent for support.
It works by correcting overall posture and in particular, increases the distance between the last rib and the hip whilst also raising the diaphragm. This prevents slumping and engages your core muscles making them work efficiently, essentially strengthening and not weakening them.
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How long does delivery take, and how much will it cost?
Delivery is usually 2-3 working days from receiving your order. Postage is provided by Royal Mail tracked and is free. As a small businesss customer service is a high priority and we do everything in our power to make sure you get your order quickly. -
Does the Rider Gilet restrict movement?
Absolutely not, the Rider Gilet is designed to fit like a second skin and move with you. Whilst delivering powerful shoulder retraction it follows musculoskeletal structures and does not restrict blood flow or cause pressure to underlying nerves.
Shaping at the shoulders allows arms to lift and stretch forward without hindrance or cutting in at the underarms.
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Can I wash the Rider Gilet?
Indeed you can. The Rider Gilet is an easy care garment. Simply place in the cotton laundry bag provided and machine wash at 30 or 40C.
Note: Do remember to remove the reflective cross from the back. It is attached with hook and loop and can be peeled off and re-adhered when dry.
Otherwise, everything is washable and your gilet should come out looking as good as new!
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