Horse riding is an exhilarating sport. But did you know that it’s one of the most dangerous sports as well? On average, about 24% to 61% of injuries in horse riding occur to the upper part of the body, including the skull. Safety is of paramount importance, hence buying the best horse riding helmets are a must.
It can’t be stressed how crucial it is to use Horseback riding helmets. A bit of knowledge and precaution can go a long way while participating in this unique and rather dangerous sport. To make your horse riding and handling free of stress, worry and injury, we have reviewed the best Helmets for horse riding in this article; let’s give them a read, shall we?
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Quick Picks
Are you too busy to dive into the specifications of helmets? Check out these quick picks we shortlisted for you!
| Best Overall: Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet | The safest horse riding helmet for professional use. |
| Budget Option: Troxel Sport Horseback Riding Helmet | Sturdy, lightweight, and perfectly ventilated. |
| Most Comfortable: Tipperary Sportage Helmet | Has multiple layers to make it comfortable. This also protects riders from potentially head injuries. |
What Are Horse Riding Helmets?
Horses can be tamed, but accidents still happen. Riding helmets with the best protection not only keeps you safe, but they also prevents you from worrying about injuries. There is a reason they are included in horse riding gear. The best horse riding helmet can mean the difference between just a fall and a life altering injury.
The safest equestrian helmets aren’t only vain and smart to look at, but they are also lined with protective material. Always check your potential helmet for American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) approval. This approval ensures that the helmet has been through all kinds of tests and can endure strident and blunt blows as well as extreme temperatures and hard drops.
The best horse riding helmet has four components. These four components are important for your safety and protection in case of an emergency stop or a hard fall.
- A Plastic or Fiberglass Outer Casing
- Internal Foam Padding
- Internal Fabric Lining
- Polystyrene Liner or Styrofoam Liner
The right blend of these factors makes for the best and the safest horse riding helmets. Your potential horse riding helmet shouldn’t lack any of these.
If you’re willing to go the extra step, we’d also recommend wearing a body protector while riding. Here are a few that you’d want to check out
How to Choose the Best Horse Riding Helmet?
Here are a few things to consider while choosing a horse riding helmet that will stand the test of time.
Material
Let’s start with the first layer of your riding helmet, whether you have a low profile riding helmet, a trail riding helmet or any other kind, the exterior matters a lot. It’s the first layer that protects you from the impact of a fall and all sharp objects you may come in contact with.
The exterior should either be plastic or fiberglass. It’s important that the outer shell not only absorbs the impact of the blow but also distributes it evenly.
The internal padding of the horse riding helmet provides comfort and cushioning. Usually, equestrian helmets come without padding; however, the safest of the lot are manufactured with adequate padding on the inside. The interior should never feel hard against the head; if it does start to feel hard, it’s time to change the helmet for good.
The next factor to consider is the helmet’s fabric lining. This one material allows the whole thing to come together nicely and stay intact. If at any point, your internal lining feels weakened, it needs to be replaced. No matter what kind of a horse riding helmet you opt for, the fabric lining is what holds the whole thing together.
The polystyrene liner is the helmet’s last component. It’s the absorptive lining that keeps you protected in case of an accidental fall. The minuscule beads inside the lining absorb all the energy that is produced during an impact. This prevents crushing or bruising of the skull and brain.
Many horse riding helmets have a cool-on lining. It has a removable and a washable headband. The lining is added to pull all moisture away from your head to keep it comfortable and relaxed. This lining is essential as it prevents the sweat from accumulating and making the rider uncomfortable.
Sizing
A riding helmet is only going to protect you if it’s a snug fit, which is why having a perfect fit as important as the material of the horse riding helmet. A huge reason why hand-me-down helmets are a big no is because they may not fit to perfection. You can’t grow into your helmet, nor can you squeeze yourself in, it’s perilous to do so.
To test the fit of your riding helmet, wear it and roll your head in a circular movement. If you feel your helmet sliding or moving, it’s not the right fit. As time progresses, the interior lining will compress and when it gets too loose, you will need to buy a new one.
Weight
When it comes to riding helmets, you need something that is lightweight. A lightweight helmet with great protection is great since it doesn’t feel heavy and awkward on your head while riding. Comfort is important as you need full concentration while riding your horse.
Ventilation
The easiest way you can distinguish a proper riding helmet from a poor quality one is to check the amount of ventilation it provides. Riders perform well when they are thermally comfortable, i.e. when their body temperature is around 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
The holes on the horse riding helmet help the crossflow of air into and out of your helmet, providing some much-needed ventilation. If your hair blocks the vents, the ventilation drops down to 8% to 30%. However, big vent holes can be a huge problem as they will lack protection against sharp objects. While in motion, things tend to heat up, so it’s important to have adequate air-flow to keep your head cool and comfortable.
Also read:
Best Horse Riding Helmets
We’ve gone through all the factors that you need to consider while buying an equestrian helmet for riding. So now that you’re well-informed on the subject, here are the best horse riding helmets:
1. Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet
Bottom line: If you’re an advanced rider who wants a lightweight helmet for easy manoeuvrability, then you can’t really go wrong with the Ovation Deluxe.
Apart from sizing, the first thing that you should look for in your horse riding helmet is its weight. The Ovation Deluxe is lightweight, hence perfect for any kind of horse riding sport. The high-quality and high-density ABS material that Ovation offers is ideal for a variety of sports such as Dressage, Hunter/Jumper, Eventing, Pleasure Riding, as well as Schooling.
Whether you are a novice, professional or are looking for the safest equestrian helmet for your little one, Ovation should be on top of your list.
The design is fairly low key, but it suffices as the ideal and one of the safest helmets. With adjustable and snug fit straps, this helmet offers security and comfort at the same time. Bonus point: they come in a variety of colors, so you don’t have to settle for a boring black anymore.
However, sizing can be an issue as these come in combined sizes like S/M and M/L. However, they seem to fit exceptionally well with the exclusive YKK adjust-clip/buckle that keeps the helmet firmly in place.
Key Features
- Lightweight
- ABS material construction
- Adjustable clip
2. Troxel Horseback Riding Helmet
Bottom line: Troxel is synonymous with quality in the horse riding industry. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, then this helmet can act as a decent complete-package.
Nothing beats safety when you are trotting away on your horse, and Troxel works tirelessly to offer you the sturdiest and safest Equestrian Helmets. Troxel understands that Equestrians are athletes, and hence they need only the best to keep them safe and secure.
The Troxel brand is trusted and well-known in the market for its premium quality riding helmets. With over 4 million products, they are easily the uncrowned kings of the market. Apart from a stunning design, these horseback riding helmets are also lightweight and adequately ventilated for sufficient air-flow.
Unlike other brands, Troxel gets full marks for versatility as their horse riding helmets are good to fit an oval as well as a round head. Despite being lightweight, these do an excellent job of protecting you or your kid’s head. There might be some sizing issues as there isn’t much difference between their small and medium. But as long as you know your size, this will fit like a glove.
Key Features
- Lightweight
- Ventilated
- Lots of size and design options
3. Tipperary Sportage Helmet
Bottom line: the Tipperary helmet is our top safety pick for new riders who are at a high risk of falling.
For riding a horse in any kind of sport, you need proper gear for safety. A helmet is one of the most important parts of your equipment. Tipperary Sportage Helmets aren’t only great looking, but they are lined with multiple layers to keep your head from taking a hard blow after an accidental fall.
Let’s explore the design first; this low profile riding helmet has a fantastic ventilation system along with soft padded lining that combats moisture. The shell is durable ABS high-Impact plastic that keeps your skull duly protected. Moving on, the design also has a reflective rear band and a flexible contour visor at the front.
Weighing only 17 ounces, this equestrian helmet is one of the finest in the market. It’s paired with a soft nylon strap for minimal friction and maximum comfort. Inside the helmet, there is a sticker to tell you the manufactured date, so you know how old your helmet is. This is important as recommended safety use is five years. It might have a fitting issue with an oval head shape.
Key Features
- Multiple-layer lining
- Ventilated
- ABS material construction
4. Troxel Liberty Schooling Helmet
Bottom line: this is the best budget option for people who don’t want to break the bank.
Shouldn’t you always look forward to your horseback rides with excitement and not dread? That’s why we suggest you to gear up with Troxel Liberty Schooling Helmet. Designed with six mesh covered vents, this horseback riding helmets will keep you cool and stress free.
Troxel Riding helmets are designed to protect your head against all kinds of hard blows. You can fasten your Liberty helmet with the buckle under the chin. The belt is adjustable to make it snug and comfortable.
This low-profile helmet has a sleek appearance that will look great with any kind of gear you have. It comes with a removable lining as well. The best part of this horseback riding helmet is that it gives you security in an affordable price.
Key Features
- Adjustable and comfortable buckle
- Removable lining
- Six mesh-covered vents
5. Ovation Women’s Riding Helmet
Bottom line: the Ovation Women’s helmet is one of the most sleek female helmet designs in the horse riding industry.
Ovation is known for its reliable horseback riding helmets. This one is specially made for female riders. The Ovation brand makes low profile designs that aren’t just sleek but also lightweight.
As for the material, you will be glad to know that it’s made out of high-density ABS. The unique shaped visor provides extra protection from the sun, and its removable and washable mesh liner is perfect for proper hygiene.
The smart and secure design of this horse riding helmet has an extended back shell. With tough and stainless steel vents, you will surely have a cooling effect while riding. As it happens, it might get a little awkward with long hair due to the shape, but all in all, it’s a great investment.
Key Features
- ABS material construction
- Washable mesh liner
- Extended back shell
- Stainless steel vents
6. IRH 4G Helmet
Bottom line: this is a perfect pick for riders who are as crazy about helmet designs as they are about riding
If you are looking for the best gift for your riding partner or your spouse who has a passion for riding, you should check out the men’s horseback riding helmet from IRH 4G helmet band. This brand is well known for its “trend-setting designs”.
Don’t let its sleek appearance deceive you; this is a sturdy helmet that will save you from the hardest of blows. It has an intelligent design with high visibility as well as an adjustable harness. The brand meets all safety regulations, and professional riders also prefer it.
The only drawback is the velvet finishing on the outer shell that is hard to clean and can get fuzzy. The IR4G comes with the rear as well as side ventilation holes to keep everything cool and comfortable.
Key Features
- Adjustable harness
- Rear and side ventilation
- Sleek yet sturdy
7. Ovation Unisex Riding Helmet
Bottom line: the Ovation unisex helmet is ideal for couples who like to ride together.
Need an identical horse riding helmet for yourself and your riding partner? How about checking out the Ovation Unisex Riding Helmet? Whether you are a professional rider or a novice, this safe riding helmet will keep you comfortable and secure while you jump hoops.
Let’s start with the fact that this is one of the best horse riding helmets designed with a rubberized finish as well as reflective piping. It’s a low profile riding helmet that is lightweight and sturdy enough to take high impact. The design also has High flow vents; these are strategically placed to keep the temperature cool while you take big leaps.
This riding helmet has a lot of bonus features including the YKK adjuster clip, adjust dial for a snug and secure fit and extra-tough adjustment teeth that improve the product’s lifespan.
Key Features
- Lightweight and sturdy
- High flow vents
- YKK adjust clip
- Adjust dial for comfortable fit
8. Equi-Lite Schooling Helmet for Kids
Bottom line: this helmet is ideal for young riders who are taking riding classes.
There is nothing more dangerous than riding a horse without a safety helmet; even when your horse is fully trained. One accidental fall is all it takes to change your life forever. We suggest you teach your young riders the importance of wearing children’s riding helmets from the start.
The Equi-Lite DFS is one of the safest helmets for young ones that are learning to ride. It’s easy to strap, comfortable and has a great appearance. The sleek design makes it very popular among teenagers as well.
The outer shell has a shiny exterior and comes in a variety of colors, acting as one of the best ways to attract teens. The Dial-Fit-System is perfect for smooth adjustments. With one quick spin, you can adjust your helmet as loose or as tight as you want.
The design has four back and five front vents to keep the air-flow up at all times. It’s crucial for the kids to feel comfortable to concentrate better, hence the soft inner padding. With the Dial-Fit-System, girls don’t have to give-up their ponytails for riding.
Key Features
- Comfortable
- Dial-fit-system
- 9 vents to enhance air-flow
- Soft inner padding
9. Troxel Fallon Riding Helmet
Bottom line: if you are into catchy designs, this helmet is definitely for you.
Tired of old, boring and solid color designs? Looking for something fresh? Try the Troxel Fallon Riding Helmet that comes in a variety of designs. This beautiful and great helmet is inspired and designed by World Champion Barrel Racer, Fallon Taylor.
These helmets are ultra-light, with extremely beautiful designs to attract buyers. Not only that, but it also has adequate vents to ensure good airflow. With the Dial-Fit system, you can quickly and precisely tighten and loosen your helmet for comfort.
This is the ultimate helmet for champions; it not only looks cool but also has a smart build. The FlipFold detachable and washable headliner with Air-Channel technology, keeps your temperature under control at all times.
Key Features
- Perfect ventilation to enhance air-flow
- Dial-fit-system
- Detachable and washable headband
10. IRH Equi-Pro Helmet
Bottom line: if you ride in extreme hot weather, no helmet offers more cooling than the IRH Equi-Pro.
IRH Equi-Pro Helmet isn’t something you should take lightly; they come in different colors and various finishes. Whoever said a safe riding helmet can’t be fun is wrong. With many exciting colors, you can change your riding helmet according to your gear.
The important features of this helmet are its lightweight design, fashionable colors, the ASTM/SEI certificate as well as the Dial Fit that offers comfortable and snug-fitting. The interior is fitted with Cool-On lining that absorbs all moisture keeping you dry and comfortable.
To cap it all, a sturdy and tough horse riding helmet should be the most important feature of your horse riding gear. It not only keeps you safe, but it also provides comfort and proper air circulation.
Key Features
- Dial-fit-system
- Interior lining to absorb moisture
- Perfect ventilation
FAQs About Horse Riding Helmets
So, there you have it!
In this article, we covered everything about buying a safe riding helmet before reviewing the best options in the market.
But if you still have some confusion, then don’t worry because you’re not alone. We get such questions from our readers all the time. Here are the most commonly asked questions about horse riding helmets.
To choose a riding helmet, you first need to know the type of riding you want to pursue. If you are planning on jumping, try a skull cap or an eventing helmet for extra safety. If you are looking for full visibility, you should definitely choose a helmet that has a break-away brim. Vents can’t be ignored as well; sufficient air-flow is required as it can get uncomfortably warm in there.
To choose the proper size for your horse riding helmet, start by measuring your head. Measure the circumference of your head from one inch above your eyebrows. It should be a perfect fit, anything less than that will not do.
Wondering whether Western or English Riding style is better? Read expert point of view here.
Horse riding helmets are usually good for five years. But keep a close eye on the condition of your helmet and replace it if you experience a hard fall.
There are many factors that can decide the lifespan of your safe riding helmet. Every rider should know about these factors to deduce whether their riding helmet is good to go or not. These factors are:
UV Rays
Being exposed to sunlight all the time does have a significant effect on the outer shell of the helmet. The continuous exposure to UV rays from sunlight can weaken the material and render your helmet unfit for use.
Sweat
Riding can be hectic; it’s one of the best exercises ever. Sweat is avoidable while riding, all the moisture from sweat can gradually wreck your helmet from the inside. The process is so gradual that you don’t notice it right away. However, this persistent condition can weaken the metal or plastic of your helmet.
The easiest way to clean a plastic horse riding helmet is to give it a good rub with a damp or microfiber cloth. Avoid any kind of solvents as they can seriously damage the outer shell of your riding helmet. The maintenance of your riding helmet is fairly easy if you know what you are doing.
For cleaning a velvet horse riding helmet, a soft brush and vacuum cleaner will do the trick. Don’t let the dust and dirt stay in your velvet helmet for too long. You can also wash your helmet from the inside and out, but with extreme care. Don’t forget that your safety depends on the strength of your helmet.
Are you looking fo the best hoof boots alongside horse riding helmet? Check our top picks here.
Yes, horseback riding helmets can expire in five years from the manufacturing date. But there are many factors that may weaken a helmet before its expiry date, like a hard fall. The helmet may have absorbed the impact, but it does become weak after taking a fall. It’s crucial that you replace your helmet every five years or when it experiences a hard blow.
Meta description: Safety comes first. This list of 10 best horseriding helmets are exceptionally safe, intelligently manufactured, and beautifully designed.
