Which riding helmet should I choose?

A riding helmet is one of the most important investments you make as a rider. It should not only be stylish and comfortable, but above all, fit correctly and be approved according to current safety standards. Whether you ride every day, compete, ride in the forest, or buy your first helmet for a child or junior, the fit is crucial.

Many search for “best riding helmet” or “how should a helmet fit”, but there is no simple answer that fits everyone. The best riding helmet is the one that is approved, fits securely on your head, and feels comfortable enough to use every time you ride.

In this guide, we go through how a riding helmet should fit, which safety standards you should be aware of, common mistakes when buying, and recommended riding helmets from the Swedish Equestrian Sports range (which are also carefully selected).

Why is the right riding helmet so important?

Riding always involves a risk of falling, even for experienced riders and calm horses. A good riding helmet is designed to protect the head upon impact and reduce the risk of serious injuries. But the helmet can only do its job if it fits correctly.

A helmet that is too large can slip during a fall. A helmet that is too small can cause pressure, headaches, and make the rider not want to use it. Therefore, you should never choose a riding helmet solely based on appearance, brand, or price. Always start with the fit.

Adjustable riding helmets – why they are a smart choice

An adjustable riding helmet is a great choice for riders who want to customize the fit more precisely. Unlike a helmet with a fixed size, adjustable models often have a dial or screw system at the back that allows the helmet to be tightened or loosened according to the shape of the head. This makes the helmet more flexible, comfortable, and easier to fit securely.

Another advantage is that the helmet can be adjusted for small changes in daily life. Hair can be styled differently from day to day, you might ride with a thinner or thicker hairstyle under the helmet, or you may want to adjust the fit slightly depending on the weather and usage. It's convenient to quickly fine-tune the helmet before riding.

Adjustable riding helmets can also be practical in families or stables where several people sometimes need to use the same helmet. Since the fit can be adjusted within a certain size range, the helmet can fit more than one rider, provided everyone is within the same size range and the helmet fits correctly on each person. It's important that the helmet is always tried and adjusted individually before each ride. It should not slide, tilt, or feel loose.

Safety Stamps on Riding Helmets – What to Look For?

When choosing a riding helmet, the safety marking is one of the most important things to check. An approved riding helmet is tested to withstand various types of stress, such as impact, pressure, and penetration. This does not mean the helmet can protect against everything, but it shows that it meets specific safety requirements.

For those buying a new riding helmet, it is wise to choose a helmet marked according to current standards. In Sweden and Europe, CE marking and EN 1384:2023 are important to know. CE marking indicates that the helmet meets the EU's basic requirements, while EN 1384:2023 is a European standard for riding helmets.

Many riding helmets are also marked with VG1, which has long been a common safety standard in equestrian sports. On some premium helmets, you may also see international markings such as PAS 015 and ASTM F1163. These are often used on helmets from established brands and show that the helmet has been tested according to more safety requirements.

The most important thing is not just to look at design, price, or brand. Always check that the helmet has a clear safety marking before purchase. If you compete, you should also check which helmet requirements apply to your discipline, as rules can be updated.

A helmet with multiple safety stamps can be a good choice for those who want to prioritize extra security, especially if you ride often, compete, ride young horses, or want a helmet with a broad international approval profile. At the same time, it is important to remember that safety stamps are only part of the whole. The helmet must also fit correctly. A well-certified helmet that is too large, sits crookedly, or slides on the head does not provide the same protection as a helmet with the correct fit.

Common Safety Markings to Know

• CE: Indicates that the helmet meets basic EU requirements.
• EN 1384:2023: Current European standard for riding helmets.
• VG1: Common safety standard for riding helmets.
• PAS 015: British standard often found on premium helmets.
• ASTM F1163: American standard found on several international helmet models.

In short: choose a riding helmet with approved safety marking, preferably according to the current European standard, and always prioritize the right fit. The best helmet is one that is both safety-approved and fits stably, comfortably, and correctly on your head.

Fly mask – protection for eyes, ears, and face

The fly mask is one of the most used fly protections for horses. It protects the eyes from flies and can also reduce irritation around the ears and forehead. For horses with watery eyes or strong reactions to insects around the head, a good fly mask can make a big difference.

The fly mask is best suited when:

• The horse gets many flies around the eyes and face
  
• The horse shakes its head in the pasture
  
• The horse has sensitive eyes
  
• The horse needs protection without covering the whole body
  
• You want to complement a fly sheet or sweet itch blanket
  

Choose a model according to needs. A mask with ears provides extra protection against small flies and gnats, while a model with a nose piece can be good for horses that get bitten or are sun-sensitive around the muzzle. Always check that the mask does not press against the eyes.