After my 4 broken ribs last yr.,I don't want to take any chances. At 59 I can't afford to get thrown or spooked again. I know I"m a wuss but better a wuss than a cripple.
Stateline tack has some. I don't know how easy they are to wear. I thought about a right hip pad. That's my favorite spot to land on:')
Understood about not wanting to take a hit. Hunter jumper and eventing people wear a protective vest of some kind. I'd browse through catalogues, might be hard to find a place where you can actually touch them and try on, I know our tack shop doesn't have them in the store.
I've never worn a vest, but they're not a bad idea. You can tell anybody who makes fun of you to kiss your butt! ;o)
I sometimes catch a rash of crap about my helmet, but I always say Better Safe Than Sorry.
I haven't read all the posts yet so someone may have already posted this. I think the rodeo riders equipment is called Pro Choice, I'm not sure, but a google search of rodeo safety equipment should bring it up. They have vests.
Did you get your barn built?