The Cervical Protector Set to Revolutionize Polo
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
A unique synergy of athletic experience and creative vision has led to the creation of the first cervical protector specifically engineered for polo. SPINE is more than an accessory; it is a sophisticated fusion of science, engineering, and design that marks a turning point in equestrian safety.
The concept was born during a family gathering. Olivia De All, a polo player and designer, recalls her father—a clinical physician—watching her compete and questioning how such a demanding sport lacked essential neck protection. Driven by this observation, De All, an alumna of the University of San Andrés, set out to fill a century-long gap in the sport’s equipment.
Innovation Meets Tradition
In over a hundred years of history, polo has seen remarkably few advancements in personal safety beyond the standard helmet and vest. Yet, the physics of the game are formidable: matches are played at speeds exceeding 40 mph, involving athletes maneuvering alongside horses weighing over 500 kg. In this high-velocity environment, falls are an inherent risk, leaving the cervical spine as the most vulnerable yet unprotected point on a player's body.
SPINE addresses this vulnerability through an interdisciplinary development process that united industrial designers, biomedical engineers, and medical specialists. The result is a piece of equipment that is:
Anatomic: Precision-contoured to the player's body.
Lightweight: Ensuring no additional physical burden.
Adaptable: Seamlessly integrating with existing gear without hindering performance.
Tested for Excellence
The development of SPINE was rigorous. Specialists in spinal pathologies guided the design, while technical stress tests were conducted at the Buenos Aires Institute of Technology (ITBA). These tests followed stringent protocols—similar to those used in motocross—to evaluate resistance, stability, and impact behavior.
Beyond the lab, functional field tests were performed with active players to measure comfort, fit, and range of motion under real match conditions. Olivia De All worked side-by-side with engineers, testing materials and refining prototypes until she achieved a product that raises the safety standards of the sport she loves—all without altering its timeless essence.
With international projection and technical validation, SPINE is not just a new product; it is a movement toward a more mindful and better-prepared era of polo.
