Equestrian Helmet Laws

Equestrian helmets are becoming more popular in the sport with recent injuries to top competitors. The United States Equestrian Federation implements rules governing the show arena, but cannot enforce laws outside of competition grounds. Associations encourage helmet laws at stables and through instructors, but it is ultimately the responsibility of the rider to wear a helmet when schooling or pleasure riding.

  1. USEF

    • According to the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), helmets must be worn and properly fastened during any form of jumping while at a competition. Junior riders must wear a helmet when mounted at a USEF-approved competition. The USEF rules apply to riders in Hunter, Jumper, Huntseat Equitation classes and the Paso Fino division. The helmet is required to have a Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) tag, and be approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Most horse shows will require the participants to have their helmets approved by an appointed official at the competition grounds.

    Ridng Stables

    • Equestrian facilities generally require any participant in an equine sport to sign a helmet waiver. This form gives the stable legal protection against possible lawsuits concerning an injury while the individual is taking part in an equine activity. After signing the waiver, the participant may choose to wear a helmet, or ride at their own risk. A parent or legal guarding will have to sign the waiver for a junior rider.

    Riding Instructor

    • Individual instructors will have differing policies concerning protective headgear. The majority of riding instructors have a waiver much like the riding stables that a participant must sign prior to mounting a horse. The American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA) encourages trainers to enforce their own helmet law following a statement by the Equestrian Medical Safety Association.

    USEA

    • The United States Eventing Association (USEA) and USA Equestrian implemented a mandatory helmet law for the eventing division effective in 2003. The helmets must be ASTM/SEI-approved and the harness properly attached for a competitor to take part in a competition. The USEA is up to date with safety laws concerning helmets as well as new concepts to improve helmet design.