by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: March 08, 2007   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

Strap a helmet on, and let's ride!

Riding with your hair blowing in the breeze may sound like a dream, but a single fall can be a nightmare. Atop a horse, you may be up to 8 feet (3 m.) off the ground. Falling from just two feet (60 cm.) can crack a skull and cause permanent brain damage. Today, it is simple to find an attractive and comfortable helmet that will protect your head and your peace of mind.

1) Do I really need a helmet?

Absolutely, yes! The American Medical Equestrian Institute states: "Head injuries account for approximately 60% of deaths resulting from equestrian accidents. Properly fitted ASTM/SEI certified helmets can prevent death and reduce the severity of head injuries sustained while riding."

The American Academy of Pediatrics, The American Medical Association, and the Canadian Medical Association unanimously recommend helmets for all horseback riders regardless of their preferred riding discipline.

Since 2003, the United States Equestrian Association and USA Equestrian have established manadatory ASTM/SEI helmet rules for eventing (See Article 1713 USA Equestrian 2003 Rules). Horse-racing organizations also require helmets. The U.S. Pony Club helmet rule resulted in a 29% reduction in head injuries.

In Great Britain, equestrian hospitalizations dropped 46% after riders began routinely wearing helmets.

Other disciplines are strongly encouraged to require helmets as well.

2) What kinds are available?

Helmets are available in many styles for varied equestrian disciplines: Western, English, racing and more. Sport helmets are suitable for schooling and hacking. Dress helmets are needed for showing, although economical velvet covers easily transform those comfortable sport caps for the show ring.

The rider will need to try on several varieties for comfort and fit. The helmet should sit level on top of the head, about " to 1" above the eyebrows. It should sit securely and not shift when the head is shaken. The chin strap should fit snugly.

The most important criteria is this: a suitable helmet will be ASTM/SEI certified. Accept no substitutions here. Bicycling, skiing, hockey, football, and other helmets are not designed to protect horseback riders!

3) Where can I find a helmet?

Saddleries, tack stores, and feed stores offer a variety of equestrian helmets. Direct-mail catalogs and online businesses do as well. Consignment stores (particularly equestrian ones) usually have several in stock. However, used helmets may come with risks. A helmet with a cracked shell or inner damage will not serve its protective purpose, so a cheap one may not be a good deal at all.

4) How much do they cost?

Quality helmets range in prices from about $40 (US) up.

5) How often should I replace my helmet?

Riding helmets should be replaced when they are cracked, or after any direct impact (as from a fall). Many major manufacturers will actually replace returned helmets free after a fall.

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