Proper riding helmet safety starts with three things: a certified helmet that meets rigorous standards, a fit that leaves no gaps between the padding and your head. And a commitment to replace it after any fall or every five years. Getting each of these right is the difference between a helmet that works and one that just sits on your head.
Shop certified riding helmets at Hooves and Paws today.
This guide covers everything you need to know about riding helmet safety: what ASTM/SEI and PAS certification means, how to measure your head for a perfect fit. The different helmet types for schooling and show, and when to replace your helmet. It also covers how MIPS technology adds an extra layer of protection and how to care for your gear so it lasts. Whether you ride English or western, compete or trail ride, the information here helps you ride smarter and safer.
Keep reading to learn about ASTM/SEI and PAS Safety Standards and why they matter for every single ride.
Key Takeaway: A helmet with ASTM/SEI or PAS 015 certification has passed rigorous impact testing. Approved helmets reduce head-injury-related deaths by 70-80% and severe head injuries by 50%. Always look for the certification label before you buy.
Riding Helmet Safety: ASTM/SEI and PAS Safety Standards: What Every Rider Should Know
Riding horses is a joy, but it has real risks. In fact, horse riding has a high injury rate per hour of riding. The risk is higher than downhill ski racing, football, hang-gliding, and motorcycle racing. This is why choosing the right gear is so important for riding helmet safety standards. An approved helmet is your best defense against head trauma.
ASTM/SEI testing standards
When you shop for a helmet, you will see the ASTM/SEI label. This mark means the helmet meets strict ASTM F1163 safety standards. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) sets these rules. Then, the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) tests each model to prove it works. An ASTM/SEI approved helmet is a critical safety benchmark for equestrian helmets because it shows they passed harsh tests. These trials mimic real-world falls and impacts.
Using an approved helmet can save your life. Studies show that ASTM/SEI approved helmets can reduce the chance of head-injury horse-related deaths by 70% to 80%. These helmets also reduce all riding head injuries by 30%. For severe head trauma, the rate drops by 50%. These safety statistics prove that approved gear makes a huge difference.
PAS 015 standards
If you ride in Europe or the UK, you will likely hear about PAS 015. This is a safety standard used across European nations. The letters stand for Product Approval Specification. PAS 015 testing is tough. It has a heavy focus on crush resistance. This test checks how well the helmet can withstand a horse falling on a rider. While the US standard focuses on flat drop impacts, the British standard adds protection for side crush force. Many riders choose helmets with both seals to get the best riding helmet safety.
Virginia Tech helmet ratings
For more help, you can look at the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab. They run their own tests on equestrian helmets. They use the STAR rating system to grade how well helmets reduce concussion risk. Each model goes through 16 impact tests that mimic real-world falls. These trials include both straight-on drops and side hits. This unbiased research helps riders see which models offer the best defense. All of the rated helmets must first pass standard ASTM or PAS safety tests. You can view the full list on the Virginia Tech equestrian helmet ratings page to compare different brands.
In these tests, the lab drops helmets onto a steel anvil. They measure the twist and force of each hit. This helps show how well the helmet absorbs shock. High-rated helmets can lower your risk of brain injury. When you buy a helmet, looking at both certification and safety ratings is the smartest move.
How to Measure Your Head for a Proper Helmet Fit
Getting a secure fit is the key step for riding helmet safety. A helmet that is too loose can slide in a fall, while a tight one can cause pain. You should measure your head to find the best size before you ride. A safe fit will keep you safe on every ride.
Getting Your Exact Head Circumference
To find your correct size, you will need a soft fabric tape measure. If you do not have one, you can use a piece of string and a ruler. Wrap the tape measure around your head to find the size. Keep the tape flat to get a true number. Take the measure three times to be sure of the count.
- First, wrap a soft tape measure around your head, just above your eyebrows and ears. Ensure that the tape stays level from front to back, as advised by the CDC.
- Write down the number in inches or centimeters to find your size on a chart.
- Choose a helmet shape that matches your head, since shells are built for round or oval profiles.
- Next, place the helmet on your head. It should fit snugly all around, with no spaces between the padding and your head.
- Adjust the side straps so they make a V shape right under your ears to keep the helmet safe.
- Center the chin strap under your chin and tighten it. No more than one or two fingers should fit under the strap.
- Open your mouth wide in a big yawn. The helmet should pull down on your head, or the strap needs to be tighter.
Choosing Between Round and Oval Helmet Shapes
Heads come in two main shapes: round and oval. Most riders fit into one of these two groups. A round head is about as wide as it is long, while an oval head is longer from front to back. Many brands make shells for both shapes so you can find a perfect fit. If a shell presses on your forehead but feels loose on the sides, you may need an oval shape. A bad shape match can cause a headache after a short ride.
How to Check Helmet Straps and Height
Once you have the right shell size and shape, you must adjust the harness for a proper riding helmet fit. The front rim of your helmet must sit about one inch above your eyebrows. If the helmet sits too high, it will not protect your forehead. If it sits too low, the rim can block your view. You should also check the fit with the hairstyle you plan to wear while riding. A new style can change how the helmet sits on your head. Always make sure the hair is neat and low on your neck.
Key Takeaway: Schooling helmets prioritize ventilation and comfort for daily work. Show helmets have sleek designs with hidden vents to meet dress codes. Modern hunt caps combine classic looks with certified safety. Your riding discipline and personal fit needs should guide your choice.
Types of Riding Helmets: Schooling, Show, and Hunt Caps
Riders can choose from some helmet types based on their style of riding and safety needs. Each type of helmet offers unique features for comfort, air flow, and riding helmet safety. Whether you train at home or compete in the arena, choosing the right helmet ensures you stay safe on every ride.
Everyday schooling helmets
Riders use other gear for daily work than they do for shows. Everyday schooling helmets focus on daily use and comfort. These designs mostly feature hard plastic shells and many open vents to keep you cool. Most models have soft pads and zip-out liners that you can wash after a hot ride. For daily practice, riders look for lightweight designs with large air vents and built-in visors to block the sun. These tough helmets are built to meet the same riding helmet safety standards as show models.
Common features of schooling helmets include:
- Tough plastic shells that resist scratches.
- Large air vents to keep you cool.
- Washable liners that slip out easily.
- Built-in visors to block sun and glare.
You can find many options in our riding helmets collection to keep your head safe during daily work.
Show helmets for the arena
Show helmets have a sleeker look to meet strict dress rules for the arena. Riders wear these in dressage, jumping, and eventing classes. These helmets often use fine fabrics like velvet, suede, or matte finishes. Instead of large open vents, show models hide their air slots in the seams. This design keeps a clean, smooth style while still letting air flow. Some show designs also use snap-off visors to keep your face safe. Many top brands now offer Mips options in their show lines to help manage spinning forces during a fall. To find a safe and stylish fit, check our tips on proper riding helmet fit for each head shape.
Traditional hunt caps and all-purpose helmets
Classic hunt caps are the oldest style of riding headwear. They have a classic black velvet cover with a small built-in brim. In the past, hunt caps lacked any inner safety padding or secure chin harness. They were worn mostly for style rather than head safety. Today, safety guides from the CDC advise riders to avoid old caps that lack real safety testing. Modern versions look like classic hunt caps but include approved foam pads and strong chin straps. These new designs also offer small air vents and zip-out pads that you can wash. You get the classic velvet look with all the strength of modern safety standards.
All-purpose helmets are built for riders who do many tasks. These models are great for trail riding, local shows, and work around the barn. They combine the open vents of schooling designs with the neat, clean look of show models. Most all-purpose helmets use dials to help you get a tight grip. They also offer zip-out liners for easy cleaning and have visors that shield your eyes from glare. Many of these helmets now include Mips options for added safety during long rides.
| Feature | Schooling Helmet | Show Helmet | Modern Hunt Cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for: | Daily practice. | Competition. | Hunting or events. |
| Ventilation: | Large open vents. | Hidden seam vents. | Small hidden vents. |
| Outer material: | Plastic shell. | Velvet or suede. | Velvet cover. |
| MIPS available: | Yes. | Yes. | Select models. |
| Washable liner: | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Rule approval: | USEF or ASTM. | USEF or ASTM. | Varies by event. |
When Should You Replace Your Riding Helmet?
Quick Summary: Replace your riding helmet every five years, or at once after any fall where your head hits the ground. Hidden cracks or broken foam can make your helmet unsafe, even if it looks fine on the outside.
The five-year rule for helmet lifespan
Riding helmets do not last for life. Even if you never fall, the inner parts of the helmet break down over time. Sun, sweat, heat, and hair products degrade the inner foam layer. Most safety groups and makers say you should buy a new helmet every five years.
When your gear reaches this five-year limit, it is time to browse our riding helmet safety page to find a fresh model. Riding with an old helmet puts your safety at risk. Inner foam loses its bounce over time, so it cannot shield your head as well during a fall.
This five-year limit is a good rule for helmets that see normal use. If you ride every day in hot weather, the foam can degrade much faster.
Why falls mean you need a new helmet
Safety gear is vital because horseback riding has real risks. Each year, about 70,000 people get help in ERs for hurts linked to equestrian sports. If your helmet takes an impact during a fall, you must replace it right away. Never wear a helmet after a crash, even if you did not hit the ground hard.
When a helmet hits the ground, the inner shell crushes to soak up the blow. This foam can only crush once. It does not pop back into shape to protect you a second time. If you use the same helmet again, it will not shield you in one more fall, which can lead to severe brain damage.
Many riders think a helmet is fine if the outer plastic looks solid. But the outer shell is just a cover. The true work is done by the foam liner inside, which is now crushed and useless.
How to inspect your helmet for damage
You should check your helmet often for signs of wear. Look at the outer shell for deep scratches or cracks. Next, pull out the liner and check the hard foam inside. If you see cracks or if pieces of foam are loose, the helmet is no longer safe.
Do not use any helmet that has cracks, broken foam, or missing padding. The CDC warns that you must never let a rider use a helmet with cracked or broken foam or missing parts. Even if the outside looks brand new, a tiny hairline crack on the inside can cause the helmet to fail under pressure.
Store your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. High heat in a car trunk or direct sun can melt or warp the foam, making it unsafe to wear.
Key Takeaway: MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) reduces rotational forces on the brain during angled falls by letting the helmet slide slightly relative to the head. It is a lightweight add-on found in many top equestrian brands like Tipperary, Charles Owen, and One K.
What Is MIPS and Does It Make a Difference for Equestrian Helmets?
Modern horse riding involves real risks, and head safety is always the main concern for riders. Traditional helmets are built to protect against direct, straight-on impacts, but real falls from a horse rarely happen in a straight line. Most falls occur at an angle, which creates rotational forces that twist the head and brain. This is why Mips technology steps in to improve riding helmet safety standards.
How Rotational Motion Causes Brain Injuries
When a rider falls, their head usually hits the ground at an angle. This angled impact causes the head to rotate quickly, which can stretch and damage the brain tissues inside the skull. This kind of strain is a major cause of concussions and other severe brain injuries.
Research shows that repeated head trauma, even when mild, causes lasting harm because the brain cannot fully recover from each injury. So, reducing this spinning motion is key to keeping riders safe.
How the Mips Safety System Works
Mips stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. It is a thin, low-friction layer that sits inside the helmet, just beneath the main foam liner. When you fall and hit the ground, this layer slides slightly to allow the outer shell to move 10 to 15 millimeters relative to your head. This tiny movement mimics the body's own defense system to redirect and absorb the harmful rotational forces.
By allowing the outer shell to slide, the MIPS layer reduces the forces that reach your brain. This sliding motion takes place in a fraction of a second during a crash. Because the system is very light, it does not change how the helmet fits or feels. Many riders do not even notice it is there until they fall.
Equestrian Brands That Feature Mips
Many top equestrian brands now build helmets with this rotational safety system. Top helmet makers like Tipperary, Charles Owen, and One K offer styles that feature Mips. Choosing a helmet with this feature is a smart step to improve your riding helmet safety. When you choose your next helmet, look for the small yellow Mips logo on the shell to ensure you get this added protection.
How to Care for Your Equestrian Helmet
Your helmet is the most vital piece of safety gear you own. Taking good care of it keeps you safe and helps the helmet last. Dirt, sweat, and hair oils can break down the inner foam over time. Simple care keeps the safety features in top shape so the helmet can protect you when it matters most. It is your best defense against head injuries on the trail or in the arena.
Daily care and cleaning
You should wash your helmet inside and out to keep it clean. Use only warm water and a mild soap for this task. Do not soak the helmet in water, as this can ruin the inner glue and foam. Avoid strong sprays or harsh soaps that can melt the hard shell.
According to the guidelines from the CDC, you must never soak any part of the helmet or use strong cleaners. If your helmet has a liner that comes out, you can wash it by hand. Let the liner air dry fully before you put it back in the shell. Do not use a hair dryer or other heat source to speed up the drying process.
Storage and heat protection
High heat is a major threat to riding helmet safety. Never leave your gear in a hot car or near a heating vent. Extreme heat can melt the outer shell and damage the shock-absorbing foam. Store your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A clean helmet bag is a great way to shield your gear from dust, moisture, and scratches. Keeping it clean and dry prevents mold and keeps the shell strong.
Regular safety checks
You should inspect your helmet often. Look for small cracks in the outer shell and feel for soft spots in the foam. If you fall and hit your head, you must replace the helmet right away. Even if you see no damage on the outside, the inner foam may be crushed. A crushed liner cannot absorb a second impact.
Proper care is just as vital as finding the right size. Read our guide on proper riding helmet fit to learn more. When you know what to look for, you can ride with peace of mind. If your helmet has been in a crash, or is over five years old, it is time to replace it. You can browse our riding helmets collection to find a safe and certified model.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my horse riding helmet size?
To find your size, wrap a soft tape measure levelly around your head just above your eyebrows and ears. According to the CDC, you can use this head size to find your match on a brand size chart. The helmet should sit about one inch above your eyebrows and feel snug all around without pain.
How does a MIPS riding helmet work?
A MIPS safety system works by adding a low-friction layer inside the helmet. During an angled impact, this layer lets the helmet slide slightly relative to your head. This movement helps reduce the rotational forces that reach your brain. By redirecting this spin, the system helps lower the risk of severe brain injury during a fall.
Are expensive horse riding helmets worth it?
Yes, expensive helmets are often worth the cost because they offer better air flow, lighter weight, and nicer features. However, price does not decide basic safety. Every helmet must meet the same standards. For example, ASTM/SEI approved helmets reduce the risk of severe head injury and death, regardless of what they cost.
How do I check if my riding helmet fits correctly?
Your helmet should fit snugly all around with no gaps between the padding and your head. The side straps should form a V shape under each ear. According to the CDC, the helmet should pull down on your head when you yawn. If it does not pull down, your chin strap needs to be tighter.
What is the 2 2 2 rule for riding helmets?
The 2 2 2 rule is a simple memory aid: replace your helmet every two years. Or after a fall from two feet or higher, or if the helmet is more than two years past its manufacture date. While the five-year rule is a common guideline, the 2 2 2 rule adds extra caution for riders who want the safest possible protection.
Ready to Choose Your Next Safe Riding Helmet?
Riding with an old, worn, or damaged helmet can lead to severe head injuries and long-term health risks if you have a fall. Getting a new, certified helmet today keeps you safe and well protected before you mount your horse for your next ride. A fresh, strong helmet will absorb the heavy shock of an impact and give you peace of mind on every single trail.
Ready to contact our team of horse gear experts? Shop riding helmets now to protect yourself on every ride. We are a family-owned shop with over thirty years of experience. We provide curated gear, a full satisfaction guarantee, and free continental U.S. shipping. Plus, we offer same-day shipping for orders placed before 2 PM PST.
