What Is the Safest Helmet for Equestrian Jumpers?

Jumping horses is a fast-paced sport with plenty of potential for head trauma as a result of falls from the horse. Head injuries can happen when a rider falls off and hits the ground, crashes head first into a jump due to a refusal, or lands beneath the horse who can inadvertently kick or step on the rider's head. It is important to be wearing the safest helmet possible to help prevent injury. A number of factors determine which helmet is the safest for a particular rider.

  1. Safety Approved

    • The type of helmet worn by a rider when jumping horses will have been tested and approved by ASTM International and the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) to ensure that it meets their standardized safety requirements. The United States Equestrian Federation, the governing body for show jumping in the United States, requires helmets worn in sanctioned competitions to have ASTM-SEI approval. If the helmet is approved, the manufacturer will state this on the packaging and on the helmet itself. These safety standards take into account the helmet's shell, lining and the harness.

    Fit

    • Helmet fit is an important component of how safe a helmet is when jumping. Not every manufacturer and helmet style will fit different shaped heads properly. The helmet should have a snug fit on the front, back and both sides of the head without being constricting. Shaking the head vigorously from side to side and forward and back should not cause the helmet to shift. If it does, it will do so when riding and not remain in place to protect the rider's head if a fall occurs.

    Post-Fall Replacement

    • Replacing a helmet at certain times will provide the rider with additional safety. Every five years is considered an appropriate interval to avoid reduced safety due to deteriorating materials, liner compression, and wear and tear from environmental factors. Helmets should be replaced after every fall that involved any amount of head trauma. Many helmet manufacturers offer free or discounted helmet replacement costs in the event of an accident. If cracks, worn screws or faulty buckles are found, replace the helmet immediately.

    Brands

    • Many different brands of helmets are available on the market. If they have been certified by both ASTM and SEI, they are considered safe for jumping. In North America, commonly available helmet brands worn by equestrians include Charles Owen, GPA, International Riding Helmets and Troxel.