Last Updated on September 1, 2020
There are a number of considerations that you need to think about when picking a helmet to ensure that you get the perfect helmet for your needs. The best horseback riding helmet for one rider is not the same as for another rider. Because of this you will want to get the right helmet for your particular needs.
For example, a Trail Rider well use a helmet that is much different than the show jumper will use. So there are a few tips that you will find below that will help you make the best decision for you and your type of horseback riding Style.
The most important and first thing to consider when looking at different helmet styles for every writer is that they must be safety certified. Every writer should ensure that the helmet that they get is ASTM SEI certified. if you are a competitive rider having a certified helmet is a requirement. And even Trail Riders will want to have a certified safety riding helmet to ensure that they are protected well they are out riding.
And equally important thing to consider is the fit of the helmet. You can go here for a guide on how to make sure your helmet fits properly. A properly fitting helmet will make sure that your head is safe in the case of a fall, and also will be much more comfortable than an improperly fitting helmet. Always make sure to test the fit of your riding helmet before mounting your horse. Never ride with the helmet that does not fit your head correctly.
The shape of your helmet will play a big part in how it fits and feels on your head. As you saw in the helmet sizing guide, some helmets are made for oval shaped heads While others are made for round heads. other differences and how many shapes include High crowns with a high-profile and a more streamlined low profile helmet Style. Classic dressage Riders often opt for a high-profile helmet well Hunter Riders often will go with a low profile helmet. Often times though this comes down to personal preference so take the time to assess the profile that you prefer in a riding helmet.
Check the features for adjusting your helmet size and fit. Well it’s obvious most helmets come with an adjustable chin strap and while this is an important an important feature, some helmets also have systems in place for adding and subtracting padding to the inside of your helmet. This feature can greatly affect the feel and fit of your particular helmet. So always know if the helmet you are looking at comes with this particular feature.
Last but not least is you should check what other technological features your particular helmet offers. For trailriders many opt for a helmet that has a ventilation system. Well ventilated helmet will help keep your head cool and your core body temperature lower even when riding for long distances during the summer. Hunter and other performance Riders though will likely opfor around that does not feature ventilation but some may well want to have this feature in their helmet. another cool feature for some trail riding helmets is a detachable visor. These visors provide relief from the glares of the Sun but they’re also designed to not break if you do fall and the visor is impacted.
you can see there are a few things that you can take into consideration before picking the right helmet for you. Always keep in mind that number one safety and fit are the primary concerns, but you should also take into consideration your style of horseback riding and give a helmet that offers of features that best fit what you are looking for.
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