There’s nothing worse than getting thrown from a horse and falling headfirst to the ground. Unfortunately, most riders don’t use proper head gear, and as a result, dozens of riders are hospitalized with head trauma each and every year.
By wearing a quality riding helmet, however, you can keep from becoming one of these statistics and look good at the same time. But, how do you find the best riding helmet for you? Well, you can start by reading this guide of course!
Hours of research went into this guide and the riding helmet reviews below in order to help equestrian lovers just like you find the absolute best riding helmet. Rated for safety, durability, and style, the following horse riding helmets are the best around. Enjoy!
Our Top 10 Horse Riding Helmet Comparison Chart
- Charles Owen Ayr8 Helmet
- Ovation Competitor
- Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet
- Tipperary T2 Helmet
- Ultra-Lite Equi-Lite Fashion Color Helmet with Dial-Fit System
- One K Defender Suede Helmet
- Troxel Low Profile Sierra Western Helmet
- Medalist Riding Helmet
- Troxel Sport Schooling Riding Safety Helmet
- IRH Elite Xtreme Helmet
Best Horse Riding Helmet Reviews
Charles Owen Ayr8 Helmet
Charles Owen is one of the premier equestrian helmet brands, and its Ayr8 Helmet is one of its best creations to date. In fact, with fresh, up-to-date styling, an incredible fit, and incomparable safety, many in-the-know riders consider it the best riding helmet for sale today bar none.
What makes it so great? Well, for starters, it features a plush and tough microfiber suede-lined exterior that looks both classy and stylish.
Beyond its striking facade, you’ll find front and rear mesh-covered air ventilation channels sprayed with thermo regulation paint for superior air flow, Grpx harness technology for an incredible fit, and a range of other thoughtful design elements only a brand like Charles Owen would think to include. It truly is one of the best all-around horse riding helmets on the market.
PROS:
- Timeless good looks;
- Ultra plush;
- Superior comfort;
- Excellent ventilation;
- Terrific harness;
- ASTM and SEI certified.
CONS:
- Pricey.
Video Review
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for quality horse riding helmets for women, children, or men, the Charles Owen Ayr 8 Helmet is a can’t lose. It has the quintessential Charles Owen look, top-of-the-line craftsmanship, and a design that simply can’t be beat.
Ovation Competitor
Noticeably better looking but more expensive as well, the Ovation Competitor is a great mid-range riding helmet with a comfortable fit and classic style that’s sure to turn some heads.
Considered by many equestrian riders as the best riding helmet being made today, this top-quality riding helmet has received its fair share of 5-star riding helmet reviews. With features like a flocked velvet shell, removable and washable Coolmax comfort liner, high-flow air vents, and an easy-to-use fit adjustment dial with extra-strong teeth for added durability, it’s easy to see why.
PROS:
- Classic good looks;
- Adjustable fit system;
- Great padding;
- Very durable and easy to clean;
- ASTM, SEI, and CE certified;
- Good value.
CONS:
- Could use more vents for better air flow.
Conclusion
The Ovation Competitor is a classically good looking helmet with modern features for a reasonable price. If you have a timeless sense of style and need a great helmet that won’t break the bank, it may be just the helmet you’ve been looking for.
Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet
Inexpensive training helmets and classic velvet riding hats are wonderful, but if you’re looking for something a little more modern and sporty, you’ll probably agree the Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet knocks it out of the park.
Designed for equestrian riders searching for the entire package, the Tipperary Sportage offers first-class safety and comfort as well as an excellent cooling system to stay cool as a cucumber on the hottest of days. With modern good looks and a surprisingly affordable price tag to boot, it’s arguably the best equestrian helmet your hard-earned money can buy.
PROS:
- Modern good looks;
- Extremely comfortable;
- Great safety features;
- Excellent construction;
- Superior cooling system;
- Available in an array of colors.
CONS:
- May be a little bulky for some riders.
Video Review
Conclusion
Tipperary is one of the best riding helmet brands, and while it’s released dozens of different helmet models over the years, the Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet may be its most comfortable and safest riding helmet yet. If you’re in search of the best but don’t want to dip into your child’s college fund for it, you can’t go wrong with the Sportage.
Tipperary T2 Helmet
The Tipperary T2 Helmet is similar to the Sportage in overall style and comfort, but it’s lighter, even lower in profile, and packed with more features you’re sure to love.
The top-quality, low profile riding helmet utilizes patented fit-form technology for the lowest profile and best fit possible. It also features a highly vented design with 13 large mesh-screened air vents for maximum air flow. Throw in an ABS shell, EPP liner, awesome buckle, and a leather chin strap harness, and you have one of the best horseback riding helmets available.
PROS:
- Very modern and stylish;
- Great construction;
- First-class materials;
- Incredible ventilation;
- Very comfortable sand lightweight;
- ASTM and SEI certified.
CONS:
- No fit adjustment system.
Video Review
Conclusion
From its modern good looks and superior ventilation to its excellent construction and lightweight design, the Tipperary T2 just about has it all. If you’re an equestrian rider with modern tastes who demands the best, the Tipperary T2 will fit you like a glove both literally and figuratively, even without an adjustable fit system.
Ultra-Lite Equi-Lite Fashion Color Helmet with Dial-Fit System
It certainly isn’t the best looking riding helmet out there, but the Ultra-Lite Equi-Lite Fashion Color Helmet is one of the most inexpensive and lightweight. Weighing in at a meager 10 ounces and available for the cost of a cheap date night, it’s one of if not the best riding helmet for the budget-conscious and children just learning the reigns.
Surprising given its price, the Ultra-Lite Equi-Lite also features an easy-to-use adjustable dial-fit system and nine air vents to let the breeze flow through. All in all, it’s one of the best values around.
PROS:
- Well-priced;
- Extremely lightweight;
- Adjustable dial-fit system;
- ASTM and SEI certified.
CONS:
- Not the best looking helmet on the block.
Conclusion
The Ultra-Lite Equi-Lite Fashion Color Helmet with Dial-Fit System is inexpensive, super lightweight, and certified safe, making it a fantastic childrens riding hat. That being said, it’s available in large sizes as well, so budget-conscious parents or adults not worried about looking cool in the arena can also enjoy its unique lightweight design.
One K Defender Suede Helmet
Whether you’re an experienced competition rider or relatively new to the equestrian community and simply want the best, the One K Defender Suede Helmet makes a strong case for itself being at the top of your shopping list.
The luxurious One K Defender is unquestionably one of the best equestrian helmets in the industry. Covered in premium synthetic suede and designed for ultimate comfort and style, it features a high-impact polycarbonate shell, synthetic suede-lined padded harness, washable anti-microbial and quick-dry liner, and an innovative V-shaped ventilation system with stainless steel mesh.
All of this equates to one word: excellence.
PROS:
- Unique modern style;
- Expert craftsmanship;
- Strong and lightweight suede-covered polycarbonate shell;
- Great interior liner;
- Excellent ventilation;
- ASTM and SEI certified.
CONS:
- Sizes run a bit small.
Video Review
Conclusion
If you’ve been reading through a sea of riding helmets reviews trying to find a truly unique and stylish model crafted for excellence in every way, look no further than the One K Defender Suede Helmet. It’s safe, innovative, and impeccably made. Basically, it has everything you could ask for in a horse riding helmet.
Troxel Low Profile Sierra Western Helmet
The Troxel Low Profile Sierra Western Helmet is designed for riders who like the handsomely rugged look and would rather wear a cowboy or cowgirl hat than an English helmet. If you’re such a person and looking for the best riding helmets for horseback riding and your sense of style, this unique riding helmet may be the one for you.
With dozens of rave riding hat reviews, there’s no question the Troxel Low Profile Sierra Western Helmet rocks. In addition to its rugged stitched nylon and leather finish, which looks great and is definitely its main selling point, this popular riding helmet features a fantastic SureFit Pro fit system, removable and washable headliner, self-locking buckle, and Flip-Fold fit adjustment.
With so many features and such beautiful construction, the reasonable price point of the Troxel Low Profile Sierra Western Helmet is a welcome surprise and a terrific value.
PROS:
- Rugged good looks;
- Very durable;
- Great low-profile design;
- Excellent fit and low profile;
- Good ventilation;
- Reasonably priced;
- ASTM and SEI certified.
CONS:
- Velcro used for removable padding may need replaced over time.
Conclusion
The Troxel Low Profile Sierra Western Helmet is engineered for rugged durability, superior comfort, and undeniable style. With all of the features you could ask for in a horse riding helmet and then some, this unique, high-quality Troxel is hard to top.
Medalist Riding Helmet
From one traditionally great helmet to another, the Medalist Riding Helmet is the best horse riding helmet out there for riders who love the look and feel of traditional English helmets but don’t want to pay a high price.
In addition to its velvet outer shell, the Medalist features a quick-dry interior lining, elegant three-point harness, and top and rear airflow vents for adequate ventilation on hot summer days. With so much to offer for such a reasonable price, the ASTM and SEI certified medalist Riding Helmet is a great value that’s hard to resist.
PROS:
- Timeless good looks;
- Affordably priced;
- Plush and comfy quick-dry headliner;
- Elegant three-point harness;
- Decent ventilation.
CONS:
- Not very low-profile;
- No adjustable fit system.
Conclusion:
The Medalist Riding Helmet is designed to transport you back in time with its classic style yet comes equipped with all of the modern-day features you’ve come to expect from reading these riding helmet reviews. When you consider its affordable price tag and all that the Medalist has to offer, it’s a great choice for any English rider.
Troxel Sport Schooling Riding Safety Helmet
The Troxel Sport Schooling Riding Safety Helmet is one of the best riding helmets for the money on the market. In addition to providing excellent performance at an affordable price, the Troxel Sport is one of the lightest riding helmets and provides the protection you need when riding, jumping, or even performing dressage.
Aside from its trusted reputation and lightweight design, the SEI certified and ASTM-approved Troxel Sport also features seven cooling vents, an integrated visor, and a washable headliner.
Best of all, this Troxel mainstay is perfect for little ones. In fact, it’s available in extra-small for children with hat sizes as small as 6 5/8. With a low price and excellent durability as well, the Troxel Sport is hands down one of the best horse riding hats for children being made today.
PROS:
- Great value;
- Durable outer shell;
- Well-ventilated;
- Removable and washable liner;
- Available in a wide-range of sizes.
CONS:
- Not the most comfortable helmet;
- Not ideal for adults.
Conclusion:
The Troxel Sport Schooling Riding Safety Helmet provides terrific performance at an affordable price, making the durable and easy-to-clean riding hat a great value for budget-conscious riders. With a wide-range of features and a trusted reputation for excellence, it’s tough to beat the Troxel Sport.
IRH Elite Xtreme Helmet
Last but certainly not least, the IRH Elite Xtreme is an extraordinarily comfortable helmet designed for the rigors of today’s competitive riders. It features a strikingly modern style with a low-profile design, an excellent fit, and an array of well-styled air vents for optimal airflow, making it one of the best horse riding helmets around.
In addition to its comfort and features, the IRH Elite Xtreme really shines in the looks department. Modern, sleek, and super stylish, it’s the ideal helmet for any modern equestrian just as concerned with how they look as they are their safety.
PROS:
- Very sleek and stylish;
- Expert craftsmanship and attention to detail;
- Excellent ventilation;
- Super comfortable;
- Modern low-profile design.
CONS:
- A bit pricey;
- Lacks an adjustable fit system.
Conclusion
The IRH Elite Xtreme is one of the most well-made, modern looking horse riding helmets being made today. If you’re on the hunt for the best riding hat and appreciate modern performance and styling, it may be the perfect option for you.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Horse Riding Helmet
A lot can go wrong riding a horse, and you may be in a hurry to pick out any old helmet that looks the part simply to protect your head for tomorrow’s schooling or your next competition. However, you can’t just go out to your local tack shop or the first online retailer you find and purchase an inferior helmet. Instead, you need to spend a few minutes and consider some important factors first, such as:
Safety
If you’re shopping for the best riding helmet, or any helmet for that matter, safety should be your first consideration. Fortunately, most of today’s horse riding helmets are certified from widely accepted ratings agencies, such as the The American Society for Testing and Materials, Snell, SEI, and the EN.
The construction of a helmet plays a large role in its overall safety, and since some helmets only meet safety standards while others exceed them, it pays to research a helmet you’re interested in to ensure its well-made and up to snuff.
Fit
Fit is equally important, because a riding helmet that is too big will flop around when you’re in the saddle and not provide the right protection in the right areas in case if a fall. Meanwhile, a helmet that is too small will be uncomfortable and unpleasant to wear. Therefore, when shopping for the best riding hats or helmets, fit should be a top priority.
To ensure the best fit, you must first get your hat size by wrapping a tape measure around your head just above the eyebrows. Then, write the measurement down and use a helmet sizing chart to get a general idea of which helmet size is right for your hat size. Many quality helmets are available in sizes ranging from XX-small to XX-large.
So, whether you’re looking for childrens horse riding helmets or helmets for larger riders, there’s sure to be a great fitting helmet out there for you or your little one.
Comfort
Comfort is another key factor to keep in mind. After all, an uncomfortable helmet results in an uncomfortable rider. An uncomfortable rider results in an uncomfortable horse. An uncomfortable horse results in….you get the picture.
To ensure you and your horse stay comfortable and safe, keep comfort at the forefront of your mind when reading riding helmets reviews. Aside from actually going to a tack shop and trying helmets on the old-fashioned way, this will help you determine the most comfortable options for your budget and needs.
Style
If you’re only interested in protection and could care less about how a helmet looks, then style obviously isn’t a factor to be concerned with. However, aside from children, most equestrian riders who wear helmets wear them for competition and consider style just as much as safety, comfort, and fit.
Luckily, today there are several incredibly stylish and safe riding helmets out there to choose from. So, whether you like a classic or modern look, you’re guaranteed to find a great helmet that matches your sense of style.
Price
Many people think they have to pay a lot of money for a great riding helmet, but nothing could be further from the truth. While you could pay hundreds of dollars for a premium helmet, there are plenty of safe, stylish, and comfortable helmets available for riders with the most meager of budgets.
Making the Decision
If you’re committed to finding a great horse riding helmet and managed to read this entire guide, you know more than enough about riding helmets to choose a terrific all-around model that exceeds your needs. Now, all that’s left to do is pick one out.
With more than 12,000 people going to the hospital each and every year with head trauma from horse riding accidents, there’s no time like the present to ensure your safety when up on your steed.
If you’re riding with an inferior helmet, or no helmet at all, you can’t afford to wait another day. So, take everything you just learned and purchase a quality horse riding helmet today. You won’t regret it!
