Bull riding is a mainstay event in American competition rodeo.
However, few safety regulations regarding the use of protective body gear by bull riders are required during competition. More importance is given to the traditional western attire, such as a western hat, than to injury prevention measures, such as protective head gear. In the U.S., great progress has been made toward the prevention of injuries, especially among children. Organized sports such as bicycling, skateboarding, rock climbing, motocross, horseback riding and football have strict requirements for the use of protective head gear. In the rule book of the National High School Rodeo Association, which is followed by the Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association, a mouthpiece and sternal vest used to protect the mouth and chest from injury, is mandated for each bull riding participant.