MOUNTED OFFICERS


resulting in small production runs that are not cost-effective for manufacturers. Another officer expressed frustration over cost-saving measures, feeling that despite the risks they face, they should be provided with the best possible protection and equipment. They said: “I get that there is a lot of


cost saving, but I just feel we should have the best protection going. I mean, we go out and do a job. We put ourselves at risk and they could at least give us the best kit and equipment available, I think, but it’s not always the way.” Participants identified two main areas for improvement in their PPE: design and seasonal equipment/clothing. Officers recommended designing equipment specifically for horse riding to improve user experience. Public order equipment, in particular, could be made more flexible to enhance contact with the horse and reduce movement restriction.


Making equipment lighter and more


customisable, especially body armour, was suggested to improve comfort and reduce shoulder and lower back pain. This would also aid in mounting and dismounting.


additional layers worn in cold conditions. While on horseback for training, patrol, and public order tasks, PPE was fitted for officers when first issued, but no equipment was bespoke made to measure. Officers spent two to three hours in the saddle during patrols, extending to five hours for large public events. Most time was spent stationary or at walking pace, with emergency calls requiring trotting. When it came to being off the horse, officers pointed out they might need to dismount to chase or detain offenders, with PPE considered restrictive but essential for protection. They stated their PPE is heavy and made running difficult but needed it for warmth and safety. Despite concerns, officers felt safer with their protective equipment on, especially on foot when facing threats like knives. On horseback, officers felt protected due to the distance from the public, although there were concerns about limited protection for lower limbs. During high-risk events, officers wore riot gear with protective pads, which offered increased protection but also caused restrictions in movement. This


gear was not designed for mounted officers, hindering their ability to interact with the horse.


Several officers suggested improvements to their current equipment provision were unlikely due to financial restrictions within the police force nationally. There was a prevailing


“Officers ‘make do’ but desire the risks of policing on horseback to be considered in their future equipment provision.”


sense of having to “just make do” with the existing equipment, with nearly all officers stating they had become accustomed to working with what they have. Many believed the mounted police section was too small to justify the development of specific PPE, attributing their current equipment provision to a lack of investment in their division. One officer highlighted only 13 forces


across the country still have mounted officers, totalling around 250 officers. This limited number means procurement is done individually or regionally,


Officers highlighted the need for better visibility on patrol, particularly in poor weather or after sunset. They currently use bike lights attached to their uniform but suggested integrable lights for body armour or the horse.


Officers’ PPE varied between seasons,


with additional clothing like waterproof trousers, jackets, and long riding boots worn in colder, wetter weather. Many of these extra layers were not specific to mounted police and were often designed for motorcycle officers or police on foot. Providing thermal base layers could reduce the number of layers needed in cold conditions, improving comfort and mobility. While effective at repelling water,


the issued waterproof trousers were designed for motorcycle police and caused sliding in the saddle. Officers suggested improving these trousers for better functionality while riding. Researchers concluded: “We investigated the provision and perceptions of protective equipment used by UK mounted police. We show that much of the equipment is not designed for the risks associated with horse riding. Officers ‘make do’ but desire the risks of policing on horseback to be considered in their future equipment provision.”


27 | POLICE | APRIL | 2025


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