How do you reload an air vest?

When an air vest deploys, it has done its job, but for it to protect you again next time, it needs to be reloaded with a new gas cartridge – and that's actually something you can easily do yourself at home, no toolbox or prior knowledge required.

When does the vest need reloading?

As soon as you become separated from the horse in a fall, the gas cartridge activates and the vest inflates in under 0.09 seconds, which is a touch faster than you can hit the ground. The cartridge is therefore used up after deployment, and before the vest can be used again it needs a new cartridge.

What you'll need

Besides the vest itself, you'll need a new FAE Cartridge and the reloading tools that came with your purchase. If you've lost the original tools, you can order an FAE Spare Tools instead.

How to reload, step by step

Start by checking that the vest is completely deflated and that the used cartridge is unscrewed, then refit the trigger mechanism according to the instructions that came with the vest, and screw in the new cartridge carefully but firmly until it's fully seated.

Want to see it in practice? The video below shows the whole process.

Good to know

Always check that the new cartridge is undamaged and the right type for your model before fitting it, and feel free to contact us at info@faeforsafety.se if anything feels uncertain.