How to Choose a New Horse Riding Hat Safely
As every horse enthusiast knows, a properly chosen riding hat is a crucial piece of safety equipment. Wearing the right helmet protects riders from serious head injuries and is a legal requirement for children riding on UK roads.
Whether you’re new to riding or upgrading your helmet, understanding the types available, fitting tips, and when to replace your riding hat is essential. This guide will walk you through key considerations to help you pick a horse riding hat that offers the best protection, comfort, and style.
1. Types of Riding Hats and Certification
Riding hats come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, but all must meet strict safety standards to ensure protection. In the UK, hats must be certified with either EN1384/BSEN1384 or PAS 015 standards and display the BSI Kitemark. This certification confirms the helmet has passed rigorous impact tests suitable for equestrian use.
There are two main style categories:
- Traditional Riding Helmets: Typically covered in dark velvet with a small peak. These are common in showing and traditional riding settings.
- Skull Caps (Jockey Skull Caps): Sleek, plain helmet shells similar to cycle helmets. They can be customised with silk covers for a traditional look and come in a wide range of colours and designs.
Your choice between styles depends on personal preference, intended use, and how well the hat fits your head shape. Comfort should always be the priority alongside safety.
2. Buying New vs. Second Hand
Always buy a new riding hat. Helmets are designed to absorb impact from a single fall, so a second-hand hat's protective padding could be compromised even without visible damage. Buying new guarantees your helmet is in perfect condition and compliant with current safety standards.
3. How to Find the Perfect Fit
Fit is the most important factor in helmet effectiveness. Even if you know your size, helmet interiors vary by brand and model, so trying on several is vital.
Visit tack shops or specialist stores with trained fitters offering multiple helmet shapes and sizes. Spend at least 15 minutes wearing each helmet to check comfort and ensure it doesn’t pinch or slip.
A properly fitting helmet:
- Is snug but not tight around your head.
- Sits just above your eyebrows and covers the top of your head.
- Does not rock or move independently of your head when you shake or nod.
- Has an adjustable harness that keeps it stable but comfortable under your chin with about a one-finger gap.
If the helmet causes pressure points, headaches, or slips easily, try another model or size.
4. How to Measure Your Head for Correct Sizing
Use a soft measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head about 2 cm above your eyebrows, over the widest part of your head including the bump at the back (inion). Match this measurement to the manufacturer's sizing chart.
Because sizing can vary, always combine measurement with fit testing before purchase.
5. When to Replace Your Riding Hat
A riding hat should be replaced:
- Immediately after any fall or impact, even if there is no visible damage, as the internal protective padding can degrade.
- Every two years, regardless of use or falls, because weather, wear, and material ageing can reduce effectiveness.
- If the helmet has been dropped or knocked while not being worn (e.g., falling from a shelf or rolling in a vehicle), as unseen damage may occur.
Proper storage is essential to maintain helmet integrity and protection.
6. Caring for Your Riding Hat
To prolong the life of your helmet and keep it safe:
- Store it in a sturdy helmet bag away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Clean the exterior gently with a damp cloth; avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the materials.
- Regularly check straps and adjustments for wear and function.
Ensure your riding hat is always secured properly before mounting to get maximum protection and peace of mind.
Enjoy safe riding with confidence by wearing the right riding hat that fits well, meets safety standards, and is properly maintained.
