Last Updated on September 1, 2020
When measuring your head to find the perfect fit for a horseback riding helmet you must first have a soft measuring tape that can measure in both inches and centimeters. While some helmet manufacturers use inches there are multiple popular helmet brands that utilize centimeters so it’s best be prepared for both. To get the right riding helmet size be sure to have a good quality measuring tape, as an old one may be stretched out and give an accurate measurement.
First measurement will be starting just above the eyebrow line measuring all the way around for the circumference measurement of your head. The tape should be straight with no slack and be just above the line of the top of your ears. Take down this measurement in both inches and centimeters.
Now take this measurement and look at the sizing chart for the particular helmet that you are considering. Look at the helmet size that accurately fits the measurement you just took.
Once you have selected a helmet of the appropriate size place it on your head. Note, be sure to have your hair in the manner in which you intend to keep it when riding with the helmet on. This is important as hair thickness can greatly how the helmet fits on your head. Generally speaking hair should be worn in a way that fits is Tight To The Head as possible in a neat and tidy manner. well .
When you put the new helmet on you must feel for a proper fit. Some helmet manufacturers produce helmets that are better suited for very round heads While others produce a helmet fit that better suits an oval shaped head. check to see that the helmet does not fit to snuggly or too loosely in the front back and sides of your head. Not only will an improper fitting helmet be uncomfortable it will not adequately protect you from injury.
When a helmet fits properly it will sit down in a snug manner on your head and it will cover the entire crown of your head. it will also put any undue strain or pressure on any point of your head. A large gap send wiggle room is also an indication that the helmet is not properly fitted for your head size. When the helmet is properly fitted it will sit on the crown of your head without applying too much pressure and .
With the helmet still on place your hand on the top of the helmet and wiggle it front and back and side-to-side. It should move the skin of your head plaid front-to-back and side-to-side.
If the helmet just Wiggles without moving the skin that means the helmet is too large .
Another point to check is that the brim of the helmet naturally sits no more then two fingers length horizontal e above the eyebrow line. The helmet should not dip down below this level nor should it slide backwards exposing your forehead to injury. If it slides forward or backwards that means the helmet is too large for your head.
Now it is time to attach the chin strap of your helmet. The chin strap should be adjusted to a link that fits snugly under your chin. It should be snug enough to hold your helmet in the proper placement without being so tight that it causes strain to the channel or the top of your head by applying too much force to the helmet. The strap that extends to the helmet should also fit comfortably around the ear without cutting into them or putting too much pressure on them.
For the top rated helmets read the buying guide.
Fred is the editor of Equine Ridge. He grew up raising horses and has been riding, training, and competing for almost four decades. Fred started out performing on the AQHA and PHBA circuits. Fred trained other competitors in English and Western riding disciplines and today offers free riding lessons to youth who would otherwise not be able to afford lessons. When not working with horses he can be found backpacking or trying to brew the perfect cup of coffee. Email Fred at fred@equineridge.com