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Last updated: 6 Sep 2022
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The Best Horse Helmet

Best Overall
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Uvex Onyxx Children's Riding Helmet
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The Safest
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HKM SPORTS Riding Helmet
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Most Breathable
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Manken Equestrian Horse Riding Helmet
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author-image
By Editor
Published 6 Sep 2022
Show contents
  • 1 Uvex Onyxx Children’s Riding Helmet
  • 2 HKM SPORTS Riding Helmet
  • 3 Manken Equestrian Horse Riding Helmet

Whether you are a beginner or professional, there is an undeniable risk that comes with horseback riding. Wearing a good helmet at all times is critical for a safe experience. Helmets have many safety features that help decrease the risk of fatal head injuries because of falls. They are available in different colours, sizes, shapes, and designs. Here are our best helmets for horse riding.

1

Uvex Onyxx Children’s Riding Helmet

– Best Overall
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Key Features

This horse helmet has multiple holes for optimal airflow and is available in four fashionable designs. It is easy to wear and lightweight to not weigh your head down. 

THE SCOOP

This horse helmet has a heavy-duty polycarbonate exterior and an interior EPS foam layer to withstand impacts during falls and accidents. It has a unicorn design on either side and an innovative locking system that is easy to lock and unlock using one hand. The FAS webbing is adjustable to provide secure fits for different head shapes and sizes.

Pros
  • Easy to adjust with one hand 
  • Vibrant unicorn design
  • Provides proper ventilation to keep your cool
Cons
  • Smaller than expected
2

HKM SPORTS Riding Helmet

– The Safest
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Key Features

This horse helmet has a built-in insect screen and a turning wheel at the side for easy, single-handed adjustments. It has a visor design at the front and includes a polyester fabric bag for simple storage.

THE SCOOP

This horse helmet has a three-point safety strap to keep it safely fastened to your head and a padded cushion interior for comfortable wearing. It has a steep-less design and cut-out holes at the back and front to keep you cool and sweat-free. It has a robust exterior layer to withstand impacts and is available in three sizes.

Pros
  • Protective insect screen
  • Three-point harness system
  • Comes with a cloth storage bag
Cons
  • This interior padding is thin
3

Manken Equestrian Horse Riding Helmet

– Most Breathable
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Key Features

This horse riding helmet absorbs the impact from falls to keep you safe and is ideal for men, women, and kids. It has a beautiful design and a plastic snap buckle closure.

THE SCOOP

This horse riding helmet is available in six different sizes and has a superior-quality ABS exterior with a soft velvet covering. It has an adjustable chin pad for a secure fit and convenient ventilated holes to keep you comfortable and cool during your rides. The lining and sweat chin pad are detachable.

Pros
  • Captivating appearance
  • Impact-resistant outer shell
  • Soft padded interior
Cons
  • The sizes run large

Buying Guide

Since helmets vary by sport and culture, selecting an appropriate one can be challenging. You should consider the following features when shopping for horse helmets:

  • Type: There are various helmets for different categories of horse riding. The risk level and culture vary widely, so you should consider the riding activity when selecting a helmet. Racing and cross-country riding have a higher risk level and require a more protective helmet. Showjumpers, dressage, and general riders face significantly less risk and need protection, but not as much. Premium helmets are excellent for riding, showjumping and dressage. They often come with customisation options to match your riding outfit. Velvet riding hats serve a similar purpose, offering safety and elegant style. Polo helmets provide excellent protection with a more traditional appearance featuring a wide brim. Jockey skulls are ideal for racing, schooling and hacking because of their high safety standards. 
  • Fit: You can usually get most helmets in an appropriate size to fit your head. Using a measuring tape, measure around the widest part of your head and select the size range you fall within. Tighten the harness and straps for a custom fit.
  • Safety: You should always ensure your helmet meets the safety standards for your riding style. 
  • Peak: Some helmets feature a broader brim that offers superior protection from the sun. Many riders favour the elegant appearance, but there are also helmets with standard peaks if you prefer those.
  • Material: While helmets have a plastic or resin shell, there are many options for coverings: cotton blended fabric, leather, faux leather, suede or velvet. You can select a material that matches or complements your riding outfits. Internal protection matters more than external appearance.
  • Straps and harnesses: Check the straps, buckles and harnesses on all helmets to ensure you can easily adjust them. 

FAQs

Q: What are horse helmets?

A: Horse helmets or equestrian helmets are a form of protective headgear worn while riding a horse. In the event of falls, helmets protect the rider's head from hitting the ground to decrease fatal injuries. While riding in open spaces and under trees, you can bump your head on branches, so you should never skip wearing a protective helmet. In more severe cases, helmets can prevent the rider's head from being struck by a horse's hoof if they fall off. Helmets are mandatory for competitive riding events and tournaments. They feature a hard external shell, often consisting of durable resin or plastic and a cloth covering for a more stylish appearance. The brim is flexible and shields the rider's eyes from the sun. A padded lining on the interior conceals a durable core that can withstand the impact of a fall. Helmets usually have adequate ventilation to keep the rider's head cool and comfortable. Helmet styles vary by sport and culture.

Q: How should a horse riding helmet fit?

A: The fit of a horse riding helmet is crucial to your safety. An ill-fitting helmet can cause damage rather than prevent it. The helmet should fit your head snugly without pinching. It should sit 0.75 to 1-inch above the eyebrows. Always fasten the chin strap and ensure it is snug when buckled. Flipping your head upside down while wearing the helmet is an excellent test. It should stay in place, even without the strap fastened. The side straps should connect below your earlobes, while the back harness should prevent the helmet from sliding forward. 

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By Editor
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