Horse Riding Helmets for Kids and Adults

A riding helmet or hat is used in some equestrian sports simply for style or to block the sun, such as the top hat is in dressage competition or the cowboy hat in rodeo games, but if you are just learning to ride or  are planning to participate in any hunt / jump type training, then a good quality helmet is required for your safety.

Being thrown from a horse can cause major injury and as a rider you want to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. Most trainers will also suggest that all students wear helmets and other protective gear during their lessons.

A quality riding helmet is essential and one of your most important pieces of equiptment as a rider. It's the one major place where you do not want to skimp on quality! There are dozens of choices to fix just about every price range.  Before shopping, do a little research and find out what type of helmet will best suit your needs.

What do you need to be safe and comfortable while riding?

To ensure yur safety while riding, you need a helmet that is strong, durable and fits your head perfectly. Comfort is important, especially if you will be spending an extensive amout of time on horseback. You do not want to be tempted to take it off at any time during your ride!

Also consider your climate. If you will be riding in the hot sun all day, you will want a helmet with good ventilation and you may want to choose a white helmet, rather than a black one, which draws in the heat of the sun.

Where will your horse take you?

If you plan on spending most of your time in the ring, a velvet helmet will work fine, though is not completely essential. A plastic hard hat is also acceptable. If you plan on trail riding, you should consider a helmet that offers more durability (tree branches can easily rip through a velvet helmet). 

My Riding Helmet Choice:

My personal choice is the Troxel Sierra Helmet. Although it is designed for Western Riders who spend long days in the saddle (and I ride English) I love the look of it as well as the ventilation. I get headaches easily when out in the sunny ring and this helmet is light weight and designed to keep your head cool and comfortable even in the mid day sun.

Many children and teenagers like to change the look of their helmet on a regular basis by using helmet covers, made of stretchy colorful fabrics. These are also great to protect a velvet helmet from getting damaged while trail riding or during daily training.

Be sure to have your helmet tightened and fitted to your head by a professional. Some trainers will take the time to check your helmet or your child's helmet to make sure that it is safe for riding and will not pop off in a fall. It needs to be snug and secure, without being uncomfortably tight.

Take your time, find the right helmet and equestrian equipment and most of all, enjoy the ride! Do you have a favorite helmet you would like to recommend? Leave your suggestion in the comment section!