Choosing the Best Horse Riding Helmet

Mastering the skills it takes to ride a horse for racing, showjumping, or even casual walks takes some serious practice. To keep yourself safe while riding your horse, a helmet is key. While letting the wind flow through your hair sounds beautiful, a horse riding helmet can protect your head in case of accidental falls and keep the sun out of your eyes. Whatever kind of riding you do, there is a helmet that will give you peace of mind. Here are some great horse riding helmets we recommend.

Purchasing a Horse Riding Helmet

While shopping for your next horse riding helmet, keep these factors in mind:

• Fit: Finding a helmet that fits the contours of your head perfectly is key to creating a protective layer. A loose helmet can slip off during use, and a tight helmet can constrict the blood flow around your head. Beyond the size chart, look for a helmet that offers multiple adjustment areas that will give you a secure fit.
• Features: With so many styles to choose from, horse riding helmets offer a wide variety of built-in benefits. Consider a helmet with a removable headband that is machine washable and can be easily replaced. Ventilation holes are great for keeping cool during hot rides. A wide peak will also help protect you from the sun by offering some shade.

Best Overall: Ovation Equestrian-Helmets Deluxe Schooler

This helmet has all the features you’ll need to have a safe and comfortable practice session with your horse. The lightweight and low-profile design keep the frame sleek to avoid bulky weight. It features an easy-adjust dial so you can perfect the fit. The exterior has a rubberized finish and a breakaway visor that allows you to add some shade on sunny days. The removable liner is also great for warm weather as it can be washed to remove excess sweat and dirt. If the black color isn’t to your taste, you can select from six other color options to fit your style.

Most Comfortable: TIPPERARY EQUESTRIAN Sportage 8500 Riding Helmet

You can ride for hours without the worry of overheating with the help of this helmet’s ventilated design. It features top and rear vent openings that encourage airflow throughout. While the helmet is lightweight, it can take a hit, thanks to the contoured drop back shell made from high-density ABS. While the shell protects you from the outside, the EPS foam liner absorbs impact on the inside to provide added security. Additionally, this helmet features a flexible visor that protects your eyes on sunny days and a rear reflective strip that adds illumination in lower light.

Best for Kids: Troxel Spirit Horseback Riding Helmet

If your child is learning the basics of horseback riding, this protective helmet is a nice way to give you peace of mind during practice. The low-profile design keeps the weight at only 1 pound, while the full coverage provides ample protection. It also features Air-Channel Technology to keep your kid cool on hot riding days. When the helmet starts to smell, there is no reason to toss it out, as the removable headliner is entirely washable. Kids can match their new riding helmet to their personal style with 16 different patterns and color options to choose from.

Best Premium: Charles Owen Pro II Plus Skull Riding Hat Black

The advanced features and detailed design of this horse riding helmet make it well worth its hefty price tag. The internal lining has interwoven silver ions that fight against sweat and odors with its anti-microbial properties. The shell is designed with front and rear ventilation slots to improve airflow. To create the perfect fit, Charles Owen uses a GRpx technology harness for ultimate security. The visor provides flexible protection from the sun without obstructing your vision.