8 of the Best Horseback Riding Helmets

There’s an old saying of “you’re not considered a rider until you’ve fallen off a horse three times”.

It’s true that you’re likely to fall off a horse at some point during your riding career, but you can mitigate the potential for injury by wearing a riding helmet to protect your head from the impact you sustain when you land. The horseback riding helmet is an important component in your horseback riding wardrobe, and for good reason: A fall from a horse without a helmet can result in a concussion as well as cause soft tissue and cervical spine injuries from the strain and shock of the impact.

Head injuries are the most common injury experienced by horseback riders due to upper body mass propelling a rider forward and onto their head when they land. Statistically, horseback riders are most at risk of sustaining a head injury after a fall. It’s always a good idea to don a helmet even if you’re riding the quietest schoolie in the barn. 

Ultimately, the best horseback riding helmet is one that fits properly, is comfortable, and provides your head with protection in the event of a fall. Following is a look at the best horse-riding helmet brands that are trusted by thousands of riders. 

1. Kask Dogma

The Kask Dogma is one of the best horseback riding helmets on the market in terms of design, comfort, and construction. The helmet itself has a low profile in terms of visual appearance which means it won’t distract from your outfit when riding in a show. It fits most head shapes through the use of a flexible tab in the rear of the helmet. The outer shell of the Dogma is made from ABS plastic and has interior padding made from 100% merino wool. The inner shell is made from expanded polystyrene for shock absorption and features a smart ventilation system in the center front of the helmet for comfort.

2. Troxel Spirit

The Troxel Spirit is one of the most popular and highly rated helmets currently on the market. It comes in a variety of colors, finishes, and graphic designs that suit your current riding activity. It features a low-profile design that won’t get in your vision when you’re calculating your next move but covers all the vital areas of your head. It has a DialFit (TM) system that helps you get a secure and comfortable fit. The headliner is removable and easily washed, and features Air-Channel technology. 

3. One K CCS With MIPS

The One K CCS with MIPS comes from one of the best horse-riding helmet brands on the market today. One K designs its helmets using the latest in sports medicine technology. MIPS is short for Multi-directional Impact Protection System which is designed to protect the head and neck from rotational motion transmitted to the brain from an angled impact. The helmet itself is made from lightweight polycarbonate and advanced ABS composite outer shell and features a moisture-wicking, antimicrobial liner. The CCS is available in round and long oval to accommodate different head shapes. 

4. Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet

The Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet is an excellent entry-level helmet for young and adult riders with its adjustable dial that accommodates a growing head of hair that’s tucked up underneath. It features plenty of vents over the top center of the head for cooling and has a padded chin strap for comfort. The liner is removable and washable, and the visor can be removed. The rubberized exterior finish makes the helmet look like it has a leather cover, and is suitable for schooling shows.

5. Tipperary Sportage

The Tipperary Sportage is one of the best horseback riding helmets at this price point. It’s a lightweight helmet with a sports profile and is made from ABS for impact resistance. An EPS foam liner adds cushioning for impact, and adjustable foam interior pads help with helmet fit. Vents are placed on the top and rear for maximum airflow. The four-point harness comes with padding on the chin strap and a quick-release buckle. 

6. IRH Equi-Lite Helmet

When it comes to sizing and comfort, the IRH Equi-Lite is one of the best horseback riding helmets. The Equi-Lite is a no-frills helmet that provides excellent protection in a fall and fits young children, teens, and adults alike. It features five vents in front and four in the back for maximum cooling, and soft inner padding that forms to the rider’s head. The brand’s Dial-Fit system in the rear of the helmet has enough space to accommodate a ponytail. A three-point chin harness helps prevent the helmet from sliding forward or back at the worst time. 

7. TuffRider Starter

The TuffRider Starter helmet is an affordable helmet that’s suitable for riders who need a helmet with a versatile design. The matte-black outer shell is made from ABS and has stainless steel mesh-covered vents in the front. The lining is made with Coolmax fabric, a material known for its excellent sweat-wicking capabilities. The adjustable dial in the rear allows you to fine-tune the fit of the helmet and is positioned to allow for the wearing of a ponytail. The helmet is SEI certified so you can trust its ability to protect your head.

8. Troxel Sierra

The Troxel Sierra is intended for use by western riders due to its styling, but it’s also appropriate for English riders who want a casual helmet for schooling. The helmet features a leather cover with cut-outs for the mesh-covered vents in the front and rear. It features Troxel’s Sure-Fit system that ensures a snug and secure fit when worn. The FlipFold removable headliner is easily taken out for washing and features Air-Channel technology to improve airflow within the helmet. A four-point harness features padded pressure points and a quick-release buckle. 

Always buy the best horse-riding helmet you can afford, and from a reputable supplier like Equoware. The name brands tend to be more expensive, but for good reason: Riding helmet makers engineer, use materials proven to protect while being lightweight, and test their products for impact resistance and shock dispersion. Shock dispersion transfers the energy generated by the impact away from the brain. The technology of horse riding helmets has improved significantly over the last 10 years with many brands now meeting international safety standards. No-name helmets may be less expensive but aren’t the best horseback riding helmet to protect your head. Wear a helmet to protect your most valuable asset and be able to continue your riding for years to come.