Equestrian Helmet Safety

Helmets used for equestrian competition undergo rigorous testing to become certified. Most helmets will read "ASTM/SEI certified," if certified for recreational or professional use. In addition, you must follow specific helmet safety guidelines on aspects such as fit and care when using one of these protective pieces. Injuries to the head account for about 60 percent of deaths in equestrian accidents, according to ASTM International, but a fitted ASTM/SEI-certified helmet can often prevent death and reduce the severity of head injuries sustained while riding.

  1. Certification

    • ASTM stands for the American Society for Testing and Materials, an organization over 100 years old, that creates standard safety requirements for many types of items, such as artificial outdoor recreation surfaces or suits worn by firefighters. The Safety Equipment Institute ensures that manufacturers of the products follow the ASTM standards. The Equestrian Medical Safety Association suggests riders buy only helmets certified by ASTM, as they undergo the most rigorous testing and development, reducing the risk of head injury.

    Safety Testing

    • The ASTM certification process drops all equestrian helmets onto a flat anvil from a height of about six feet, and from several angles and directions. Then, testers drop the helmet onto a second anvil with a very sharp corner, simulating the impact of a horse's hoof or hitting a jump. Another test checks the equestrian helmet's harness strap to assure that it remains in position during an accident, by placing it on a head-like form. When weighted and dropped, the helmet straps must hold the helmet in place on the head, without stretching beyond a certain critical point.

    Fit

    • Showing requires a dress cap, although much cheaper black stretch velvet covers can easily transform comfortable sport caps for the show ring. The rider will need to try on several different types of helmet varieties to find a comfortable and well-fitting cap. The helmet should sit level on top of the head, about half an inch above the eyebrows, according to veterinarian Fernanda C. Camargo, equine extension professor at the University of Kentucky. It should sit securely and not shift when the rider's head shakes, and the chin strap should fit snugly.

    Replacement

    • Riding helmets require replacement if they have a crack, or after any major direct impact such as a fall. Many major equestrian helmet manufacturers issue a warranty with each helmet, and will replace a broken or damaged helmet. If a helmet's not cared for properly, damage can occur to the inside lining. This might happen if, for instance, after prolonged exposure to moisture, which deteriorates the padding of the helmet. Damaged helmets do not fit correctly, requiring immediate replacement.

    Cleaning

    • Clean plastic-covered helmets with mild soap and water. Leather-covered helmets or the leather components on plastic helmets require special leather cleaners and conditioners, just like leather saddles or boots. Velvet-covered helmets should be cleaned with a steam cleaner, to refresh the nap of the velvet. You can usually remove the helmet's soft, inside head lining and clean it with mild soap and water before allowing it to air dry. Never put any helmet parts in the dryer, cautions the Troxel Performance Headgear website.