DIRECT Info On The 8 Best Horse Riding Helmets For ADULTS

The Importance of a Suitable Horse Riding Helmet

The sport of riding horses is thrilling, especially with the best horse riding helmets. But did you also know that it’s one of the riskiest sports? Injuries sustained while riding a horse typically affect the upper body, including the head. Investing in the best horse riding helmets is essential for your safety.

This article outlines the top Helmets for horse riding to help you handle horses without stress, concern, or harm.

Person riding horse with helmet

How to Fit an Adult Horse Riding Lid

It can be tough to find a riding helmet suitable for your head and riding style. When searching for a riding helmet, it is crucial to consider not only “fashion” but also function and fit. When putting on a helmet, a few details require careful attention, including the following:

  • You should wear a helmet comfortably, but it shouldn’t be too tight.
  • There shouldn’t be any rocking motion from side to side or front to rear.
  • Once you have the helmet on, shake your head from side to side; if the helmet moves in any way, it is likely too big for your head.
  • Turn your head so that it is facing downward so that the helmet’s peak is pointing at the ground. If it is the right size, your helmet should stay on your head while providing a comfortable and secure fit.

The Top Five Horse-Riding Helmet Brands

Consider the brand when looking for a helmet; the price and features of the various options available will differ greatly. A dressage helmet with many bells and whistles will cost far more than a schooling helmet. 

Investing in a high-quality helmet is unquestionably worth the additional cost if you play at a higher level in any sport. One K, for instance, is a brand that caters exclusively to riders who have previously experienced head trauma. 

Ovation and Troxel are two companies with reasonable helmet prices. There is always going to be a compromise somewhere between quality and affordability. Helmets from Ovation and Troxel won’t last as long or perform as well as they do with some of the more expensive manufacturers.

If you want to spend the majority of your time trail riding or are just starting in equestrian competition and are unclear about how much money you want to invest in the sport, there is no shame in purchasing a less expensive brand. They maintain their safety certification and provide a large amount of design and sizing flexibility. The top 5 riding helmet brands include;

  • One K
  • Charles Owen
  • Tipperary
  • Ovation
  • Troxel
Two female horse riders with helmets

Our Favorite Adult Horse Riding Helmet is…

In the market today, there are many horse riding helmets that you can buy to offer protection when riding your horse. Our favorite is the Artist Unknown Equestrian-Helmets Deluxe Schooler Helmet. It comes in different sizes and provides you with maximum comfort.

An Overview of Our Favorite Adult Riding Helmets

  1. Artist Unknown Equestrian-Helmets Deluxe Schooler Helmet: Best overall horse riding helmet
  2. Troxel Rebel Horseback Riding Helmet: Best-rated (less expensive) horseback riding helmet 
  3. Troxel Liberty Horseback Riding Helmet: Best riding helmet with adjustment dial
  4. Trolex Performance Headgear Equestrian-Protective-Gear Troxel Spirit Horseback Riding Helmet: Most breathable riding helmet 
  5. Troxel Dakota Turquoise Paisley Trail Helmet (XL): Best horseback riding helmet with a visor
  6. : Best riding helmet for medium-sized headspace
  7. One K MIPS CCS Helmet M Round Black Matte: Best safety riding helmet
  8. Trolex Performance Headgear 04-369 Brown Leather Sierra Helmet: Most lightweight riding helmet
Troxel Liberty Helmet, Black, Large
Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet Small/Medium Black
Troxel Dakota Horseback Riding Helmet
Product name
Troxel Liberty Helmet, Black, Large
Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet Small/Medium Black
Troxel Dakota Horseback Riding Helmet
Price
$76.19
$74.95
$88.95
Troxel Liberty Helmet, Black, Large
Product name
Troxel Liberty Helmet, Black, Large
Price
$76.19
Buy Now
Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet Small/Medium Black
Product name
Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet Small/Medium Black
Price
$74.95
Buy Now
Troxel Dakota Horseback Riding Helmet
Product name
Troxel Dakota Horseback Riding Helmet
Price
$88.95
Buy Now

Our Adult Horse Riding Helmet Reviews Below

Depending on how you choose to ride, horseback riding may either be a calm activity or an exciting one. Amazingly, horses can have speeds significantly higher than what we as humans are capable of on our own. 

For example, Thoroughbreds can reach top speeds of 44 miles (70.8 kilometers) per hour, whereas Quarter Horses are even more capable of achieving top speeds of 55 miles (88.5 kilometers) per hour when sprinting. However, falling off a horse can still have serious repercussions, even if you move at a much slower pace.

It is common knowledge that high-risk activities such as skateboarding, bicycle riding, and motorcycle riding all need the use of helmets, or at the very least, they come highly recommended. But if you weren’t aware, horses can reach heights of almost 6 feet (2 meters). 

Because a fall from that height may potentially split your skull open, helmets are also for use in the sport of horse riding. Compared to helmets used in other sports, equestrian helmets are extremely distinct, yet, it cannot be easy to choose which horse helmet would provide the best fit and most convenient features. 

To be of assistance, below are in-depth reviews that compare eight of the top alternatives now available on the market so that you can choose which one you trust to keep your skull intact in the event of an accident.

Artist Unknown Equestrian-Helmets Deluxe Schooler Helmet: Best Overall Horse Riding Helmet

Brand: Artist Unknown

Colors: Black

Sizes: X-small/small

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up

Outer material: Rubber

Inner material:  Mesh

Helmet dimensions: 11.89 x 8.62 x 8.11 inches (30.2 x 21.9 x 20.6 centimeters)

About This Item

Do you ever feel that your helmet is ‘too much? It’s too hot, heavy, tight, and loose simultaneously. This Ovation riding helmet is not excessive other than its protective qualities. You will maintain your cool, keep freshness, be comfy, and look stylish.

This lightweight and low-profile Ovation Deluxe Schooler horse riding helmet meets the ASTM criteria, providing you with maximum protection when sitting in a saddle. The minimum age advised by the manufacturer: is 12 years and up.

The Deluxe Schooler Helmet has a rubberized finish, a long-lasting easy-to-adjust dial for a snug fit, high-flow vents, a removable, washable liner, a removable breakaway visor, and an exclusive YKK adjuster clip and buckle. These features contribute to the helmet’s ability to provide maximum comfort.

This combo also includes the EquiStar Waterproof Helmet Cover, which protects valuable velvet and suede textured helmets from the elements; keep your helmet protected to provide years of good look and dependable use; keep your helmet protected to protect valuable velvet and suede textured helmets from the elements.

Key Features

  • Weekly cleaning with an approved cleaner. 
  • The liner is machine washable.

Troxel Rebel Horseback Riding Helmet: Best-Rated (Less Expensive) Horseback Riding Helmet 

Brand: Troxel

Colors: Dream catcher

Sizes: Large

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up

Outer material: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

Inner material: Mesh

Helmet dimensions:13 x 9.25 x 8.25 inches (35.6 x 23.5 x 20.9 centimeters) 

About This Item

When you are galloping around on your horse, nothing beats safety, and Troxel works hard to provide you with the strongest and safest equestrian helmet. Troxel knows that athletes require the greatest equipment to keep them safe and secure and that equestrians are no different.

For its high-end riding helmets, the Troxel brand is reputable and popular. They are unquestionably the market’s uncrowned kings with more than 4 million products. These horseback riding helmets feature an exquisite design and are lightweight and well-ventilated for appropriate airflow.

Troxel receives top scores for adaptability compared to other brands because their horse riding helmet can suit both a round and an oval skull. Despite being small and light, these are very effective at guarding your or your child’s head. 

There might be some sizing difficulties because there isn’t much difference between their small and medium sizes. However, if you know your size, this will fit you like a glove.

Key Features

  • Lightweight.
  • Ventilated.
  • Numerous size and style options.

Troxel Liberty Horseback Riding Helmet: Best Riding Helmet with Adjustment Dial

Brand: Troxel

Colors: Black

Sizes: Small

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up

Outer material: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

Inner material: Mesh

Helmet dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 inches (25.4 x 25.4 x 25.4 centimeters)

About This Item

Shouldn’t you always anticipate your equestrian rides with anticipation rather than dread? For this reason, we advise you to equip yourself with a Troxel Liberty schooling helmet. This equestrian riding helmet has six mesh-covered vents to keep you cool and stress-free.

Helmets made by Troxel Riding shield your head from damaging hits. You can use the under-chin buckle on your Liberty helmet to secure it. You can adjust the belt to fit tightly and comfortably.

The elegant design of this low-profile helmet blends seamlessly with whatever type of equipment you may have. It also has a detachable lining. The fact that this horseback riding helmet offers security at a reasonable cost is its best feature.

Key Features

  • Buckle that is flexible and comfy.
  • Unattached lining.
  • Six vents covered in mesh.

Trolex Performance Headgear Equestrian-Protective-Gear Troxel Spirit Horseback Riding Helmet: Most Breathable Riding Helmet 

Brand: Trolex performance headgear

Colors: Black

Sizes: X-small

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up

Outer material: Plastic

Inner material: Mesh

Helmet dimensions:13 x 9 x 8 inches (33 x 22.9 x 20.3 centimeters)

About This Item

To ensure the ideal fit, don’t forget to measure. The updated Troxel Spirit Riding Helmet provides a fuller, deeper fit for greater security. DialFit technology and the modern, low-profile design combine to produce a tailored, comfortable fit for various head shapes. 

Finally, the FlexVisor helps protect your eyes from the harsh sun while strategically placed mesh-covered vents boost airflow to keep you cool on extended rides.

KeyFeatures

  • Deep, full coverage designed for heightened defense.
  • Low-profile, sleek design for maximum safety and comfort.
  • Vent placement that maximizes airflow aids in keeping you cool while riding.
  • You can modify the helmet to fit your head shape with the exclusive DialFit technology.

Troxel Dakota Turquoise Paisley Trail Helmet (XL): Best Horseback Riding Helmet with a Visor

Brand: Trolex performance headgear

Color: Turquoise

Sizes: X-large

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up

Outer material: Plastic

Inner material: Mesh

Helmet dimensions:13 x 9 x 8 inches (33 x 22.9 x 20.3 centimeters)

About This Item

Many riders who enjoy exploring off-road tracks appreciate the expanded visor on this helmet. Many love the style choices and the visor that assists in guarding you against the sun while trail riding. It is a wonderfully comfy helmet. 

Troxel helmet is light and easy to fit. You don’t have to pay much money to have a fantastic helmet. The Dakota comes in various colors and includes a lengthy sun visor. The lightweight, low-profile design and mesh-covered vents make a comfortable ride possible. Visibility improves on sunny trail rides because of the extended sun visor.

The FlipFold removable, washable headliner allows you to tailor the width of the helmet, while the SureFit Elite fit system automatically adjusts the fit. 

The Troxel Dakota Riding Helmet is ideal for staying protected and cool during hot summer trail rides. Additionally, this incredibly lightweight trail helmet has lots of ventilation, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the ride. 

The enlarged sun visor improves visibility, and the matte surface prevents glare from the sun. Long hours in the saddle will not be uncomfortable thanks to the snug, comfortable fit provided by the SureFit Pro fit system with FlipFold headliner.

Key Features

  • Troxel.
  • Unobtrusive.
  • Duratectrade matte finish.
  • A long sun visor.
  • The hat band and concho detail are in leather.

: Best Riding Helmet for Medium-Sized Headspace

Brand: One K

Colors: Navy

Sizes: Medium

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up

Outer material: Plastic

Inner material: Mesh

Helmet dimensions:13 x 9 x 8 inches (33 x 22.9 x 20.3 centimeters)

About This Item

One K Defender Helmet with Chrome Stripes One K Helmets, which are brand-new to the country, exhibit the ideal fusion of cutting-edge technology and visually beautiful design. One K has the best of both worlds, offering enough capabilities to entice those looking for everything a helmet could provide in a package that traditionalists can enjoy. 

It is ASTM and CE EN standards-certified. It has a modern ABS composite shell design using injection molding, moisture-wicking, machine-washable liner, meshed stainless steel hook, and loop fastening fastex fastener.

There are four vents: two center, two sides, two front, and two rear. Harness with synthetic suede lining and comfort padding.

Key Features

  • Outer shell made of advanced ABS composite and polycarbonate. Design of an injection-molded shell. 
  • The riding helmet has ventilation mesh on the sides, front, top, and rear for a sporty appearance and optimal airflow.
  • Hook & loop adjustability, a washable and quick-drying liner, and a Fastex buckle
  • One back, one front, two center stripes, and two side vents. 
  • Design of an injection-molded shell.
  • Excellent design and cutting-edge technology. 

One K MIPS CCS Helmet M Round Black Matte: Best Safety Riding Helmet

Brand: One K

Colors: Black Matte

Sizes: Medium

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up

Outer material: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

Inner material: Mesh

Helmet dimensions:12 x 10 x 9 inches (30.5 x 25.4 x 22.9 centimeters) 

About This Item

The MIPS riding helmet has a matte Polycarbonate and Advanced ABS Composite outer shell, an injection molded shell, a washable quick-dry, moisture wicking, anti-microbial liner, stainless steel mesh, a comfort padded harness with synthetic suede lining, hook & loop adjustment, and a Fastex buckle, as well as two front, one back, and two center stripe vents. 

One KTM Helmets are popular for their flawless fusion of cutting-edge technology and aesthetically beautiful design. In compliance with ASTM requirements. 

The Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), developed in 1996 by a neurosurgeon and a researcher from Sweden’s Royal Institute of Technology, intends to provide an additional defense against rotational motion communicated to the brain via angled strikes to the head. 

The danger of brain damage increases by rotational motion, which combines rotational energy and rotational forces from angular acceleration. 

By rerouting forces and energies that would otherwise convey to the brain, the additional protection provided by MIPS separately minimizes rotational motion. MIPS includes information and data.

Key Features

  • Polycarbonate matte.
  • A modern ABS composite shell.
  • Design of an injection-molded shell.
  • Antimicrobial, quick-drying, machine-washable, and lining.
  • Meshed stainless steel.

Trolex Performance Headgear 04-369 Brown Leather Sierra Helmet: Most Lightweight Riding Helmet

Brand: Trolex Performance Headgear

Colors: Brown

Sizes: Large

Male, female, or unisex: Unisex

Recommended use: 12 years and up 

Outer material: polymer

Inner material: Mesh

Helmet dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 inches (25.4 x 25.4 x 25.4 centimeters) 

About This Item

It has mesh-covered vents and a low profile with rugged leather and nylon covering.

SureFit trade Pro fit system. Headliner with air channel trade technology that you can remove and wash using the flip fold trade system.

Key Features

  • Sure fit system with a profit.
  • Buckle that can lock itself.
  • The finish is of rugged nylon and leather.
  • You can remove the headliner and wash it.
  • Flip-fold adjustability for the perfect fit.

What to Look for in Adult Horse Riding Lids

When shopping for a horse riding helmet that will last the test of time, there are a few important factors to consider.

Material

Let’s begin with the outermost layer of your riding helmet. It doesn’t matter if you have a trail riding helmet, a low-profile riding helmet, or any other riding helmet; the exterior is very important. The first layer of protection shields you from the force of an impact and any pointed items you might come into touch with during a fall.

Either plastic or fiberglass ought to be for the outside. It is essential that the outer shell not only cushions the blow by absorbing its force but also disperses it equally throughout its surface.

The horse riding helmet has padding inside, providing the rider comfort and cushioning. Most equestrian riding helmets do not come with any padding; nevertheless, the ones that are the safest of the bunch include sufficient padding on the inside. 

The inside of the helmet should never feel rough against the head; if it does start to feel rough, it’s time to get a new helmet for good. Next, you need to consider the cloth that lines the helmet. Because of this one substance, you can put the complete item together beautifully and maintain its integrity. 

If at any moment you get the feeling that the lining inside of your body is becoming weak, you should replace it. The fabric lining of the horse riding helmet is the component that ensures the integrity of the product regardless of the style you choose to purchase.

The polystyrene liner is the final component that makes up the helmet. Because of the absorbent padding, you won’t hurt yourself if you take a tumble by accident. The microscopic beads within the lining can absorb all the energy generated. 

This prevents the skull and brain from crushing or bruising. A lot of riding helmets for horses feature something called a cool-on liner. It comes with a headband that you can remove and wash. 

The addition of the lining serves to wick away any moisture that may be present on your head to maintain a state of relaxation and ease. It is crucial to have this lining because it prevents sweat from building up, which would otherwise make the rider uncomfortable.

Sizing

Because a riding helmet is only going to protect you if it is a snug fit, having a flawless fit in a horse riding helmet is just as crucial as the helmet’s material. One major reason it is not a good idea to accept hand-me-down helmets is that the fit might not be right. 

You can’t get bigger and still fit in your helmet, and trying to cram yourself there could put your life in danger. If you want to ensure that your riding helmet fits properly, you should put it on and then roll your head in a circle while wearing it. It does not have the proper fit if you can feel your helmet sliding or move around on your head. 

The padding on the inside of the vehicle will get more compact with time, and when it reaches the point where it is no longer secure, you will need to purchase a replacement.

Weight

When it comes to head protection for motorcycle riding, you need something that is not too heavy. When you’re riding a bike, it’s far more comfortable to wear a helmet that doesn’t weigh a lot but still provides a high level of protection than one that does. Because you need to concentrate completely while riding your horse, comfort is vital.

Ventilation

Checking the amount of ventilation a riding helmet offers is the simplest way to tell a good one from a cheap one. Poor ventilation is a sign of a poorly made helmet. When riders are thermally comfortable, their body temperature is approximately 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18.3 to 26.7 degrees Celsius), and they perform at their best.

The ventilation provided by the horse riding helmet is essential, and the holes in the brim of the helmet aid in facilitating the crossflow of air into and out of the helmet. If your hair gets in the way of the vents, the airflow will drop to between 8 and 30 percent. 

Large vent holes, on the other hand, provide a significant challenge because they offer no protection against projectiles or other pointed things. Since things tend to heat up when there is motion, it is essential to have sufficient airflow to keep your head cool and comfortable.

FAQs on Adult Horse Riding Helmets

What Size Helmet Do I Need?

By measuring the diameter of your head using a measuring tape, you may determine what size helmet best suits you. Most helmet companies either include a chart indicating what number of inches corresponds to which size or measure the head’s circumference.

What are Helmets Typically Made of?

Riding helmets often have an impact-absorbing foam layer underneath a plastic, resin-coated (earlier helmets), or Kevlar outer shell.

Should I Buy a Used Helmet?

No! Every time a rider hits their head, or after five years, You must change a helmet. There is no way to know what stress a worn helmet has. Even if there isn’t obvious visual deterioration, the structure could still be unstable.

How Should I Care for my Helmet?

Most of the time, helmets just need to be occasionally cleaned and stored in a temperature-controlled location.

What Makes a Helmet Suitable for Year-Round Wear?

Although you can wear most helmets in all weather, they can get chilly during the winter. In the winter, you can keep your ears toasty by donning a thin cap or scarf underneath your helmet.

What are Horse Riding Helmets?

Although You can train horses, mishaps do still occur. The most protective riding helmets keep you safe and spare you from worrying about accidents. They are a part of horse riding equipment for a reason. The greatest horse-riding helmet can distinguish between a minor accident and one that changes your life.

The best equestrian helmets have safety materials and are fashionable. Always look for a potential helmet for American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) approval. This certification guarantees that the helmet has been tested and can withstand harsh hits, blunt strikes, severe temperatures, and hard falls.

The ideal horseback riding helmet consists of four parts. These four elements are crucial for security and defense if an unexpected stop or a severe fall occurs.

  • A plastic or fiberglass outer casing.
  • Internal foam padding.
  • Internal fabric lining.
  • Polystyrene liner or styrofoam liner.

The best and safest horse riding helmets successfully combine these elements. None of these should be missing from your potential horse-riding helmet. We also advise wearing a bodyguard when riding if you’re ready to take extra precautions.

How Long is a Horse Riding Helmet Good for?

Helmets for horseback riding typically last for five years. However, keep a close watch on your helmet’s condition and replace it if you take a severe fall. The lifespan of your safe riding helmet depends on a variety of things. Each rider should know these aspects to determine whether their riding helmet is safe. These elements are;

UV Rays

The helmet’s outer shell gets effects by constant exposure to sunlight. The material in your helmet may become weak over time through UV radiation from the sun, rendering it useless.

Sweat

Although it might be frantic, riding is one of the best forms of exercise. While riding, it’s important to minimize perspiration because the moisture it produces can slowly damage your helmet from the inside. You do not immediately notice the procedure because it is so gradual. However, the metal or plastic of your helmet could get weaker due to this recurrent problem.

How Do You Clean a Horse Riding Helmet?

Giving a moist or microfiber cloth a thorough rub on a plastic horse riding helmet is the simplest way to clean it. Avoid using any form of solvents because they might significantly harm your riding helmet’s outer shell. Maintaining your riding helmet is not particularly difficult if you know what you’re doing.

Soft brushes and a vacuum cleaner work well to clean a velvet horse riding helmet. Keep the dirt and dust out of your velvet helmet as soon as possible. You can also wash your helmet inside and out, but you must do so very carefully. 

Remember that the quality of your helmet will determine how safe you are. Are you seeking the greatest riding helmet and hoof boots? 

Can Horse Riding Helmets Expire?

Helmets for horseback riding have a five-year shelf life after the date of manufacture. A heavy fall is just one of many potential factors that could degrade a helmet before its expiration date. Although the helmet may have been taking the force, it does lose strength after falling. You must replace your helmet every five years or after a serious blow.

Safety must always come first. The top eight horseback riding helmets on this list are incredibly safe, cleverly made, and exquisitely designed.

Horse riding young girl

The Word’s Out!

One of the trickier parts of getting dressed for equestrian sports is finding and fitting a riding helmet. A few general guidelines apply to all riding disciplines, regardless of whether you need jumping, trail riding, or dressage helmets. Locate a neighborhood tack shop and try on a few different brands if you want to get a helmet quickly, affordably, and with the least hassle.

No worries if purchasing online is more of your thing. To select a helmet that fits you well, measure your head’s diameter using a measuring tape first.

Finding a helmet that works for you and your riding style is crucial. Since you will be wearing the helmet for several hours at a time, it is acceptable if it takes a bit longer to examine your options until you discover one that is comfortable, reliable, and reasonably priced. Plus, it’s crucial for your safety! 

We recommend the Artist Unknown Equestrian-Helmets Deluxe Schooler Helmet. It is the best as it will meet all your horse riding helmet needs.