>>831410Ever broken ribs before?
That's reason alone to wear one. I'll tell you it fucking sucks, and it's not something I want to do ever again.
If you're jumping, especially just starting out, i'd suggest it. Trail riding I wouldn't bother.
Does the barn/whatever have gear you can borrow? See if anyone else has one they'll let you try?
Never rode without one in the rodeo arena. Vest is likely what saved my life when I got stepped on.