Equestrian helmet guide: riding helmet fit, labels and falls
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- ASTM F1163 riding helmet. Best for: Riders of all ages. See options on Amazon
- Kids horse riding helmet with fit dial. Best for: Children still growing. See options on Amazon
- Helmet storage bag. Best for: Keeping a helmet out of sun and heat. See options on Amazon
Fit checklist
| Check | What a good fit looks like | Sign of a problem |
|---|---|---|
| Snugness | No spaces between foam or padding and head | Moves front to back or side to side |
| Front rim | About an inch above the eyebrows | Tilted back or down over the eyes |
| Side straps | V shape directly under the ears | Straps sit in front of or behind the ears |
| Chin strap | Centered; one or two fingers fit underneath | Helmet does not pull down on a big yawn |
From the CDC HEADS UP Equestrian Helmet Safety fact sheet. The back of the helmet should not touch the top of the rider's neck.
Sizing before you buy
- Bring the rider so you can check fit in person, as both the CDC and CPSC suggest.
- Measure with a soft tape just above the eyebrows and ears, level front to back; a string and ruler work too.
- Use the brand's chart. Sizes vary from brand to brand.
- Adjust. Some riding helmets have removable padding or a universal fit ring to fine-tune fit.
- Ask how it feels. Snug, but too tight can cause headaches.
- Hairstyle. Try it with the hairstyle worn while riding; a big change may mean refitting.
Adjusting the straps
- Side straps: adjust so they form a V shape directly under each ear.
- Chin strap: center it under the chin and tighten until no more than one or two fingers fit between chin and strap. Pull the straps from the back of the helmet if needed.
- Yawn test: have the rider open wide; the helmet should pull down. If not, tighten.
- Final check: once fastened, the helmet should not move in any direction, and you should be able to see the rider's eyes while they see straight ahead and to the sides.
The CPSC adds that a helmet should sit level, not tilted back or pulled too low, and that you should not add padding or make changes the maker's instructions do not describe.
Labels and standards
The CDC says to look for an equestrian helmet with labels that show the date of manufacture, which helps in case of a recall, and that say ASTM, SEI or Snell certified, meaning it has been tested for safety and meets safety standards. The CPSC's "Which Helmet for Which Activity?" table lists the equestrian helmet type, meeting ASTM F1163 or Snell E2021, for horseback riding.
A bike or ski helmet is not on that row. The CPSC says each helmet type is made for the impacts typical of its activity, and helmets designed for other activities may not protect your head as effectively. It also warns not to rely on a helmet's name, appearance or packaging claims; check the compliance label inside the liner, on the shell or on the chin strap.
Replace after a fall
The CDC is direct on this point: replace any equestrian helmet that is damaged or has been involved in an impact from a fall. Riding helmets are designed to help protect against one serious impact, such as a fall from a horse. The foam inside crushes when it absorbs that impact, and you may not be able to see the damage, but the crushed foam cannot protect the rider's head from another hit.
Without other guidance from the maker, the CPSC says replacing a helmet within 5 to 10 years of purchase may be prudent, and that cracks, crushed foam, a loose shell, worn straps and missing pads are all reasons to replace it. Write the purchase date somewhere you will see it.
Care and storage
- Check for damage. Do not use a cracked or broken helmet or one missing padding or parts.
- Clean inside and out with warm water and mild detergent; no soaking, high heat or strong cleaners.
- Store it out of the car, away from direct sunlight, in a room that is not too hot or too cold. Do not let anyone sit or lean on it.
- No paint or stickers without checking with the manufacturer, as this may affect safety.
The CPSC notes no helmet design has been proven to prevent concussions. For other helmets, see our bike helmet guide and ski and snowboard helmet guide.
What to look for when you buy
ASTM F1163 riding helmet
Best for: Riders of all ages
The CPSC lists ASTM F1163 or Snell E2021 helmets for horseback riding.
Watch out: Replace after any fall impact, per the CDC.
See options on AmazonKids horse riding helmet with fit dial
Best for: Children still growing
The CDC notes some riding helmets have a universal fit ring that can be adjusted.
Watch out: Still measure and use the brand's size chart.
See options on AmazonHelmet storage bag
Best for: Keeping a helmet out of sun and heat
The CDC says to store helmets away from direct sunlight and not in a car.
Watch out: Keep the bag in a room that is not too hot or too cold.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- Do I need to replace a riding helmet after a fall?
- Yes. The CDC says replace any equestrian helmet involved in an impact from a fall, even without visible damage.
- What certification should a riding helmet have?
- ASTM, SEI or Snell certified; the CPSC lists ASTM F1163 and Snell E2021 for horseback riding.
- How should a riding helmet fit?
- Snug, front rim about an inch above the eyebrows, V straps directly under the ears, one or two fingers under the chin strap.
- Can I wear a bike helmet for horseback riding?
- The CPSC lists a separate equestrian helmet type and says helmets for other activities may not protect as well.
- How long does a riding helmet last?
- Follow the maker; without guidance, the CPSC says replacing within 5 to 10 years of purchase may be prudent.
Sources
- Get a Heads Up on Equestrian Helmet Safety (fact sheet) (cdc.gov), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Which Helmet for Which Activity? (cpsc.gov), U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission