Safety first
Riding hats are designed to protect your head for just one impact, such as a fall or even being dropped on a hard surface, and must be replaced afterwards. Even if your hat’s lucky enough not to have experienced either, it’s still recommended you replace it every three to five years, depending on how much you wear it, because the protective materials will deteriorate after this time. While a riding hat can feel like an expensive initial outlay, when you consider its life-saving properties – not to mention the anticipated cost per use if you wear it multiple times a week for up to five years, for the budget-savvy among us – that trade-off between your wallet and your life doesn’t seem so important anymore. Still need some convincing? Two riders share their tales of the time their riding helmet saved their lives…Fit for purpose
In May 2019, Hannah Norvill had an unsupervised fall from her horse, during which she was knocked unconscious and was then hospitalised for several weeks with a brain bleed. After replacing her helmet, which sustained serious impact during the fall, Hannah returned her original helmet to its manufacturer, Champion, to allow them to examine it in greater detail. The helmet had experienced significant damage, with both the outer shell and protective foam liner cracking. Additionally, the foam liner had been crushed to half its original thickness. This level of damage emphasises the severity of the fall Hannah suffered and shows how her helmet acted as designed to absorb much of the impact. By working in this fashion, the helmet protected Hannah from long-term catastrophic injury, and likely saved her life.ÂUp to standard
Pictured (below) is the helmet of top US showjumper Laura Kraut after her fall at the end of July 2020. Laura’s horse was wearing studs for stability while jumping but as she fell from her horse on landing, he stepped on her head twice. Laura sustained injuries to her face but, remarkably, was back out competing within six weeks. This is because her Charles Owen helmet was designed to withstand this kind of impact scenario – the PAS 015:2011 standard, with a BSI Kitemark that means it’s retested every year. If Laura hadn’t been wearing a helmet designed for this level of impact, the injury could’ve been much worse. By ensuring that your helmet is up to the latest standards, you’re helping to make sure you’ve got the best, and latest, safety mechanisms behind you.Riding discipline rule requirements
* only in conjunction with another accepted standard from this listPeaked Hats
Predominantly worn in showjumping and dressage competitions, as well as for general riding, they come in a range of styles to suit your fancy.Â
Rhinegold Reflective Pro
ÂŁ78.95
Front ventilated hat for increased airflow. It has a soft suede style lined harness and removable washable liner for added comfort. Features reflective piping on the outside for increased visibility.Â
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
Uvex Elexxion Pro
ÂŁ219.50
Lightweight helmet combining the best of two leading helmet technologies – inmould and hard shell – into one helmet. Adjustable ventilation system to keep you cool when you need it most. Striking appearance with gloss and matt design.
Features
- Adjustable
- Vents
- Competition legal
Champion Revolve Vent-Air MIPS
From ÂŁ237.50
Designed using the MIPS brain protection system. Features a highly ventilated airflow system, padded harness and synthetic leather finish with pearlised piping detail, keeping you safe yet stylish in the saddle.
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
- MIPS
Charles Owen Ayrbrush PinstripeÂ
ÂŁ269
Features front and rear ventilation with a smooth, mark-resistant paint, matt finish and coloured pinstripe. Strengthened shell with glass-reinforced fibres. Rear lacing for adjustment and a removable, washable cup headband. Â
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
Just Togs One K Defender Air Glamour
ÂŁ299
Stylish and elegant design with Swarovski crystals and sparkle stone detailing. Air pump system for a bespoke fit. Includes interchangeable anti-microbial liners and multiple vents for maximum airflow for extra comfort.Â
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Adjustable
- Competition legal
Antares Galaxy
ÂŁ310
Lightweight, ventilated hat with four front and two back vents, featuring a matt shell finish with contrasting leather design and chrome detailing. Supplied with interchangeable washable liners and has options for customisation.Â
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
Kask Star Lady Swarovski Pearls
ÂŁ764
Stand out with this combination of pearl and crystal elements for a elegant, contemporary look. Comfortable    eco-leather harness with removable padding and smart honeycomb-style ventilation system.Â
Features
- Vents
- Competition legal
Kep Cromo Textile Blue with Swarovski panel in sparkling rain
ÂŁ957
Python leather-finished helmet with endless options for customisation. Advanced air-control system to keep the head cool and dry. Five-point harness and removable, washable liners.
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
Jockey skulls
This style of helmet must by worn for cross-country and is popular with eventers and leisure riders alike. Can be personalised with a hat silk or cover of your choice.
Gatehouse HS1-VÂ
From ÂŁ164.98
Developed from the HS1 hat with the addition of front vents to provide increased ventilation. For maximum comfort it has a four-point padded harness with anti-bacterial lining and rear lacing for adjustment.
Features
- Vents
- Competition legal
Champion Pro Ultimate
From ÂŁ166.75
Fully ventilated helmet for effective airflow made from lightweight, fibreglass composite material. Removable crown padding, four-point soft leather and webbing harness with rear lacing for comfort and easy adjustment. Â
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
Charles Owen Pro II PlusÂ
ÂŁ170
Precision-fitting skull cap with removable, washable headband that allows for a close, customised fit. Available in regular and round fit with a range of colours including heat reflective options. Rear lacing and padded chin strap for comfort.Â
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
Antares Cross Country
From ÂŁ270
Featuring four front vents for maximum breathability and lightweight design for comfort. Comes with interchangeable washable liners. You can create your own unique hat with a wide range of styles, finishes and colours. Â
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal
Kask Dogma XCÂ
ÂŁ440
Lightweight outer shell that’s waterproof and scratch resistant. A unique fitting system allows the helmet to cradle the back of the head, offering an anatomical fit. Features honeycomb-style ventilation with a hypoallergenic chinstrap.
Features
- Vents
- Competition legal
Kep E-Light
From ÂŁ733
Weighing less than 400g, this stylish, super-lightweight hat has a vented carbon fibre outer and elegant detailing with a soft eco-leather harness for added comfort. Complete with removable, washable liners.
Features
- Removable liner
- Vents
- Competition legal