How to Fit a Helmet
Almost every equestrian has a story about helmets. Someone who was wearing one and it saved their life, or someone who wasn’t and suffered because of it. Helmets are a critical piece of gear when riding a horse, no matter your level or age. Some of the people I have seen suffer the worst falls are adults who have been riding their entire lives, on horses that are considered safe. We all fall. It is part of the sport. And that is why it is crucial to know that when you fall, you will be protected as well as possible.
A little research will show you that a well fitted helmet can reduce equestrian head injuries by 30-50% (equus, 2021). And even though many horseback sports are considerably more dangerous than football (OhioLine, 2021), only 75% of equestrians regularly wear head protection (Stanfill et al, 2020).
So you’re looking for a helmet. Good for you! Your brain will thank you. Regardless of style, brand, or price, fit is the most important factor (and ASTI/SEI certification). Here’s how you should fit your helmet:
Know your head shape
Is your head round or oval shaped? One way to find out is to look at the ground and have a friend look at the top of your head. You can also figure this out by trying on helmets. If you feel pressure on the front and back of your head, you’ll want to look for more of an oval. If the pressure is on the sides, look for round. Ideally it should feel like the pressure is evenly distributed all around your head.
Try on several
You will want to try on several helmets to find the right shape and feel, so this is not really a great online shopping item. A perfectly fitted helmet has even pressure on your whole head and stays on without the chin strap even if you go upside down or shake your head around. You want to wear your hair the way that you do when ride when trying on helmets (low bun, hairnet, braid).
Make adjustments
Many helmets have little knobs in the back that you can turn to make small adjustments, or velcro shims that can be added or removed to adjust the fit. The chin strap should be snug, but not tight, about two fingers away from your chin.
A few more notes
Know how to store your helmet
Every now and then I find a birds nest in a stored school helmet. Not so fun! Aside from keeping them away from critters looking for a home, helmets should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Replace it often
If you fall your helmet needs to be replaced, even if you don’t think you hit your head. Any force to the helmet reduces its ability to protect your head from future accidents. Many brands offer “crash insurance” and will replace a damaged helmet and no cost to you. Also, check the manufacturer’s recommendations about how often to retire your helmet and replace it with a new one.
What about Mips?
Mips is a helmet system that is popular not just in equestrian sport, but also in bicycling, motorcycling, and more. The idea behind the technology is to create a frictionless layer inside the helmet that can help to reduce rotational force on the head on impact. Mips helmets do tend to be more expensive, but I have truly seen them save lives. If you ride high risk horses or perform a high risk sport, such as jumping or eventing, I recommend investing in your brain health and going for the Mips upgrade.
Your brain is worth the extra time and research to find the perfect fit. With all of this information to arm you, you should be able to take yourself to the nearest tack store and find a helmet that will give you more peace of mind.