Equestrian Helmet

An Equestrian helmet is worn by the rider, when riding horses. This type of helmet is specially designed to protect the rider's head during falls off a horse, especially from striking a hard object while falling or being accidentally struck in the head by a horse's hoof.

Certified helmets are required headgear for many competitive riding events, particularly where horse and rider must jump or work at high speed. Helmets are worn more often by English-style riders and are gaining acceptance as required headgear for children. They are most widely accepted in fields such as horse racing, eventing or show jumping. They are required in eventing, in endurance riding and other types of competitions. People who take their horses hacking or trail riding sometimes wear helmets, though there are tremendous variations in helmet use in different regions and cultures. In the United States, the record is particularly dismal, with use by fewer than 1 in 8 riders. Some states, such as Florida and New York, are starting to require by law that riders under the age of 14 wear helmets at all times they are riding.