Select a helmet with a current, recognized certification and verify acceptance with your club or event. Fit matters: measure, try multiple shell shapes, and use a five-minute pressure test, tilt and rock checks, and strap adjustments to ensure a secure fit. Replace helmets after significant impact and follow manufacturer service-life guidance. Prioritize safety and fit over fashion or price.

Prioritize certified safety

Choose a riding helmet that carries a current, recognized safety certification. Look for the certification label or tag inside the helmet and confirm the model is accepted by your riding club or competition organizer. Rules and accepted standards change over time, so check event or association requirements before you buy.

Commonly referenced standards include those used in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe; verify which standards your club accepts and whether the helmet has been tested to meet them.

If you have an older helmet, don't assume it's still legal - safety standards are periodically revised. Take any helmet you're unsure about to a reputable tack shop, certified fitter, or your club for inspection.

How to get the right fit

A helmet must fit properly to protect you. Try this checklist when trying on helmets:

1. Measure and try multiple shapes

Measure head circumference and try helmets that match that measurement. Different manufacturers use different shell shapes; try several brands to find one that matches your head.

2. Five-minute pressure test

Wear the helmet for about five minutes. If it leaves a red mark across your forehead or feels uncomfortably tight, it's too small.

3. Tilt test for looseness

Put the helmet on without fastening the chin strap, bend forward so you are looking at your feet. If the helmet falls off, it's too loose. A correct fit will move slightly but not come off.

4. Rock test for front/back fit

Fasten the chin strap and place a hand on top of the helmet. Rock the helmet forward - if it moves over your eyes it's too loose at the front. Rock it back - if you can see your hairline it's too loose at the back.

5. Check the harness and chin strap

The straps should form a neat "V" around your ears. The chin strap should be snug enough that you can open your mouth comfortably and the helmet stays on your chin rather than slipping back. If you have a small face, you may need strap adjustments or a smaller cheek pad.

Care, replacement and service checks

Replace a helmet after any significant impact. Manufacturers also give recommended service lives for liners and shells; follow those instructions and replace helmets that show wear or damage. Check current guidance on replacement intervals and manufacturer recommendations before deciding to reuse an older helmet. 1

Final priorities

Always choose certification and fit over fashion or price. A correctly certified, well-fitting helmet is the best protection you can wear when riding.
  1. Confirm the current, accepted helmet safety standards and their designations in the United States (e.g., the latest ASTM/SEI references) as of 2025.
  2. Confirm the current, accepted helmet safety standards and their designations in the UK and Europe (e.g., PAS 015, VG1, EN standards status) as of 2025.
  3. Confirm up-to-date manufacturer and industry guidance on replacement intervals (recommended years of service) for riding helmets as of 2025.

FAQs about Riding Helmet

How can I tell if my helmet meets competition rules?
Check the label or tag inside the helmet for its certification, then verify with your riding club or event organizer whether that certification is accepted for competition.
How often should I replace my riding helmet?
Replace a helmet after any significant impact. Also follow the manufacturer's recommended service life and inspect for visible damage or degraded padding. Current general guidance varies, so check up-to-date recommendations.
Can I adjust straps myself or should a professional do it?
You can make basic strap adjustments (forming the V under the ears and tightening the chin strap), but have a certified fitter or experienced tack shop check the fit if you're unsure.
Does helmet age alone make it unsafe?
Age can affect materials and padding, but age alone isn't a guaranteed failure. Follow manufacturer guidance and replace helmets that show wear, damage, or no longer meet current standards.
Are some helmet brands better for certain head shapes?
Yes. Manufacturers use different shell shapes. Try several brands and models until you find one that matches your head shape comfortably and securely.

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