8 Best Rated Horseback Riding Helmets for Safety and Comfort

H orseback riding is a sport that is becoming more and more popular throughout the United States. It’s a way to improve your patience, perseverance, observational skills, emotional awareness and connection, coordination, discipline, muscle strength, and many other qualities. Plus, the bond you’ll share with your horse and the time spent in nature will have a positive effect on your mental health too. But one thing you must remember, as with every sport, you have to put your safety first before mounting your mare or stallion. And that means getting appropriate gear, such as boots, vests, a medical ID bracelet in case of an accident, and, most importantly, a helmet that has been certified and approved for horse riding. This last piece is extremely important, seeing as 10 to 30% of all horse-related injuries are head traumas and most sports-related TBIs (traumatic brain injury) in the U.S. are often occurring in equestrian events.

So, in order to keep your head as safe as possible, we’ve gathered some models that vary in style and features so that you can look stylish when you’re aiming to be concussion-free. Scroll down to see the detailed reviews.

Health Benefits of Horseback Riding

Those that have been into horse riding for a long time know that this activity can be as relaxing as it can be strenuous, depending on the level of intensity you choose. But for those who are just beginning and don’t know whether or not they should make it a long-term commitment, here are some of the benefits that you can expect after consistent riding:

• You’ll be more flexible – Mounting, dismounting and moving at the same time as the horse will improve flexibility.
• Stronger core and thighs – This aspect is among the first ones you’re bound to notice because these two parts are the ones worked the most.
• Better coordination – Maneuvering a huge animal around requires plenty of attention and awareness of your surroundings which are bound to help you improve your coordination.
• Your posture will get better – Keeping an upright but relaxed position during this activity will help to keep you from slouching.
• You’ll get rid of calories faster and easier – As Dennis Sigler points out in this research article, “Some have joints that just can’t stand a jog, but if they can ride a horse and burn 400 calories a day, that’s significant”, so consider taking up this new hobby if you can’t handle typical exercises.

As many benefits as it can bring, it can also be dangerous for first-timers who don’t know how to handle a horse, which is why it’s important to use the right protection equipment at all times.

Top 8 Horseback Riding Helmets Compared

Photo	Product	Sizes Available	Outer & Inner Materials	Liner Material & Features	Ventilation	Adjustability	Other Features	Price
Best Overall	1. Tipperary Windsor Wide Brim Helmet with MIPS	Small, Medium, Large	ABS & EPS Foam	Mesh-covered Padding / Removable & Washable	6 Vents	Chin Strap, Dial	360° Crush-Resistant Fiberglass Banding, MIPS Protection System, Tipperary Retention System, Removable Chin Pad, Wide Brim, Low Profile	Check Price
Editor’s Choice	2. One K Defender Black Matte	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large	Polycarbonate, ABS & EPS Foam	Moisture-Wicking, Mesh-covered Padding / Removable & Washable	7 Vents	Chin Strap	All Sizes have Regular or Long Oval Fits, Low Profile, Liner is Quick-Dry & Anti-Microbial	Check Price
	3. Trauma Void EQ3	6-1/2, 6-5/8, 6-3/4, 6-7/8, 7, 7-1/8, 7-1/4, 7-1/2	Microfiber & PU Leather	Coolmax, Removable & Washable	10 Vents	Chin Strap	Multi-Directional Impact Protection System Technology
Best For Kids	4. Charles Owen JR8 Helmet	6⅜, 6½, 6⅝, 6¾, 6⅞, 7, 7⅛, 7¼, 7⅜, 7½, 7⅝	Microfiber Suede, ABS & EPS Foam	Headband / Removable & Washable	2 Vents	Chin Strap	Weather-Resistant, Sizes 6⅞, 7, 7¼, and 7⅛ also come with Round Fit, Low Profile, Wide Peak	Check Price
	5. Ovation Deluxe Schooler	XX-Small/X-Small, X-Small/Small, Small/Medium, Medium/Large, Large/X-Large	ABS & EPS Foam	Mesh-covered Padding / Removable & Washable	9 Vents	Chin Strap, Dial	Storage Bag, Low Profile, Rubberized Finish, Removable Visor, Chin Pad	Check Price
	6. TuffRider Starter	Small, Medium, Large	ABS & EPS Foam	Mesh-covered Padding / Removable & Washable	3 Vents	Chin Strap, Dial	Storage Bag, Removable Visor, Fits Glasses, Chin Pad	Check Price
Best For Hot Weather	7. Troxel Spirit Performance Helmet	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large	ABS & EPS Foam	Foam Padding / Flip-Fold Fit System, Removable & Washable	15 Vents	Chin Strap, Dial	Full Coverage, Low Profile, DialFit System, FlexVisor, Air Channel Technology, Matte Duratec Finish	Check Price
	8. IRH Equi-Pro	X-Small, Small/Medium, Medium/Large	ABS & EPS Foam	Moisture-Wicking & Cool-On Mesh-covered Padding / Removable & Washable	7 Vents	Chin Strap, Dial	Removable Visor, Liner attaches with Velcro	Check Price

1. Tipperary Windsor Wide Brim Helmet with MIPS

Check Price at Amazon

The first model we’re taking a look at comes from Tipperary, with a look reminding of something you would see on the head of professional equestrians. Its outer shell comes in a sleek matte black with a subtle rose gold lining to detail the top and the brand logo on the front, just above the wide visor. Other color options you could go for when it comes to the trims are black or a glossy smoked chrome, the latter sporting a crocodile skin-like pattern on the top.

Construction and Features

The Windsor might seem too lightweight when picking it up, but when it comes to its build, the outer shell is constructed of durable ABS plastic with EPS foam on the interior and the harness is a 5-point one, made of PU leather, completed with a Duratex buckle and a chin pad to help with comfort. You can adjust the harness to fit your head with the help of the straps and the back dial, and you also have an inner liner, which is washable in case it picks up too much sweat, and removable in case you need to switch it for one with more or less padding.

To help with sweating, along the trim lines you’ll also find ventilation holes that are 6 in total. The manufacturer makes it available in 3 sizes and it also comes with a 2 year period in which you can get a replacement at a discounted price (only applies to falls or other unintentional damage sustained during riding).

Safety Measures

This Tipperary model is SEI and ASTM certified for use during riding and it’s a low profile type for added back coverage. For extra protection there’s a fiberglass banding all throughout and an integrated Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) that comes in the shape of an inner yellow layer.

---

2. One K Defender Black Matte

Check Price at Amazon

Our favorite out of the bunch has to be the model made by One K, which stood out with the help of its design, fitting, size options, and other attractive features. But let’s take a closer look.

Design & Build

Just above the small visor, in the center, we have the company logo, and the design is again a sleek one, but this one beautifully combines the matte black shell with the stainless steel mesh-covered air vents in the front, the sides, and on top. The colors you can choose from are navy, black, or brown with a matte finish or glossy black with chrome or matte black trims. Its lightweight build comes from a sturdy ABS and polycarbonate shell and an EPS foam inner structure. The sizing goes from X-Small to XX-Large, and all have a regular or a long oval option to choose from.

Features

In this aspect, the Defender has a synthetic suede lined harness coupled with a light Fastex fast-release harness buckle to enhance comfort during wear and give the option of adjusting the chin strap. Its liner is both removable and it can be washed, as it comes with a material that absorbs moisture, dries faster, and is also anti-germ. Safety is assured by ASTM and SEI certifications, and you get a 30-day warranty and a 3-year window for discounted replacements.

---

3. Trauma Void EQ3

The multiple size options of the EQ3 guarantee you won’t have trouble finding a proper fit. As opposed to most riding helmets, this model looks good even on individuals with rounder heads since it doesn’t make their faces look flat. But looks aren’t the only department where this helmet shines since it’s just as impressive when it comes to comfort.

The Coolmax liner is easy to remove and wash, and the exterior shell is easy to clean too. Great ventilation is granted to keep you from sweating while you ride during torrid days. You won’t only look cool with it on, but you will also feel cool. Another comfort factor stands in the padded PU leather chin strap that offers a relaxed fit.

MIPS Protection for the Cautious Rider

The main argument as to why you must seriously consider the Trauma Void EQ3 helmet is the high protection it offers in case you crash or fall. What makes it so efficient is the MIPS or Multi-Directional Impact Protection System technology that offers greater protection from rotational motion. This technology is nothing new as it has been used in motor, bike, and snowmobile helmets for years now, so its efficiency is tested and proven.

What this particular technology entails is that the helmet features two protective layers; one traditional outer later, and a thin inner layer. It’s the interior layer that works the magic by absorbing and redirecting the rotational force. In the event of an angled impact, your head is kept safe from potential injuries.

---

4. Charles Owen JR8 Helmet

Check Price at Amazon

If you’ve decided that your kids are ready to be introduced to the beautiful world of horse riding and you’re searching for a proper headpiece to fit just right and keep their heads safe, the JR8 manufactured by Charles Owen is the right choice. This piece comes in 11 sizes, 4 of which also have a Round Fit option, so you’ll surely be able to find what you’re looking for. Sadly, the color options are lacking, only black or a black and graphite combination being available.

Qualitative Build

The shell is made of strong ABS to provide sturdy protection and EPS foam to keep it comfortable. Comfort is also enhanced thanks to the headband liner, which you can easily remove and wash, the wide peak, which keeps the sun’s glare away, and the two keyhole vents that allow the head to breathe.

Going back to the shell, on the exterior it comes with a microfiber suede-finish lining which is weather-resistant to be able to maintain the same look for a long time. The only adjustable part is the lower strap on the nylon harness that allows you to shorten it or make it longer. Having a low profile, it ensures that the back side is protected just as well, and the safety standards passed confirm a job well done.

---

5. Ovation Deluxe Schooler

Check Price at Amazon

Moving on with the reviews, this Ovation piece has a style that is somewhere between the sleek design of the first few and the sporty ridges of the previously-mentioned Sportage. The ridges on it are the clear delimitation between the shell and the air vents which sit in front, on top, and in the back, being 9 in total.

Color-wise you can choose between black, brown, blue, gray, purple, tan, or white, all available in a rubberized matte finish. For the fitting, once you have your measurements down, you have 5 size options, but we must mention that they run smaller, so if you are an S, it’s best that you avoid the X-Small/Small and go straight for the Small/Medium.

The Deluxe Schooler has the same build materials as the rest, a removable padded liner that can be washed to avoid unwanted smells, a harness with a chin pad, a YKK buckle and clip, and a dial in the back for adjustments. It will protect all of your head thanks to its low profile, you can remove its visor if you find that you need to, and your package will include a storage bag as well. The safety standard passed by this model is the ASTM/SEI.

---

6. TuffRider Starter

Check Price at Amazon

Coming closer to the end, next we have a lightweight TuffRider piece with a more standard look. The shape of this model is on the rounder side and the 3 wide air vents that help keep you cool are positioned in the front and in the back, covered with stainless steel mesh for added protection. Its visor is long and quite wide, with the option to detach it whenever you want to so that you can be free to wear glasses. Black is the only color option, the same as with the matte finish. It comes in 3 sizes and you want to make sure you measure correctly before purchasing, as tighter fitting equipment can cause painful pressure points. For more size options, the Ovation Deluxe Schooler has you covered.

As you’re probably expecting, the shell is ABS and the inner material is EPS foam for structure. The liner that acts as extra protection is mesh-covered padding and it can be both removed and washed whenever. The harness system is padded and it comes with an adjustable chin strap and a back dial to keep a proper fit. An ASTM/SEI certificate vouches for the gear’s protection capability and when you’re done using it, simply dry it out and store it in the bag that comes with the package.

---

7. Troxel Spirit Performance Helmet

Check Price at Amazon

This next piece is from the Troxel brand and it comes with a rounder shape and a relatively short visor. Its matte Duratec finish has one color option, black, and the company name in white just above the visor. The interesting aspect about the Spirit is represented by the 15 vents in the front, top, and rear that keep the air flowing during movement and make riding in hot weather an easy task. This is also the reason why the liner only has foam padding, as sweat isn’t much of an issue.

The 15 vents also make it much better for riding in warm weather compared to the Troxel Sierra Western that only features 9 cooling vents. We previously featured the Sierra in our top but decided to upgrade it for the Spirit model after testing both Troxel helmets and coming to the conclusion that the latter is more comfortable. But these aren’t the only Troxel helmets we tested, far from it. The Troxel Interpid and the Troxel Rebel Turquoise Rose also caught our eye and made it to our collection of products worth testing.

As the case was with the Sierra, the only notable downside was that there weren’t a lot of ventilation holes, which made sweating inevitable during hot weather. However, although these three products didn’t make it to our top, there is no denying the superior protection they provide. This is why we want to leave the decision-making up to you. While not perfect, each of them are worth investing in and might suit certain potential customers. So we urge that you take a look at this comparison table and pick the Troxel helmet you find most convenient feature-, design-, and price-wise.

Specification	Troxel Spirit Performance	Troxel Sierra Western	Troxel Intrepid	Troxel Rebel Turquoise Rose
Materials (exterior & interior)	ABS & EPS foam	ABS & EPS foam	ABS & EPS foam	ABS & EPS foam
Liner	Foam padding	Mesh-covered padding	Foam padding	Padding
Features	Flip-fold fit system liner; Full coverage; Low profile; DialFit system; FlexVisor; Air Channel technology; Matte Duratec finish	Flip-fold fit system liner; SureFit PRO with ComfortCradle and EverFlex strap + self-locking buckle	Flip-fold fit system liner; Low profile; Matte Duratec finish; Geometric visor shape; Mesh-covered vents; Air Channel technology	Flip-fold fit system liner; Low profile; Matte Duratec finish
Ventilation	15 vents	9 vents	8 vents	8 vents
Size options	XS, S, M, L	S, M, L, XL	S, M, L, XL	S, M, L, XL
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Guaranteed Safety

Its shell is ABS and the padding is EPS foam, to stay in the same sturdy line as the previous pieces. The harness is a 3-point type made of nylon and it comes with an adjustable chin strap and a DialFit system for fitting adjustments. Size-wise it comes with 4 options, the X-Small being designed for younger riders. Not only are you safe from heat strokes and excessive sweating, but you’re also protected from serious head injuries, seeing as this model meets the SEI/ASTM standards to assure any rider of its protection capabilities.

---

8. IRH Equi-Pro

Check Price at Amazon

The last one on the list comes from IRH, but its combination design reminds us of the Ovation model. You can choose from 4 color options, namely matte black, navy, purple, or glossy blue. The 7 ventilation slots act as delimitations again, and they are present front, top, and back for maximized breeze-making. This one is the second heaviest of the lot (1st being the My PS), coming at 1.65 pounds with the same ABD and EPS foam build. Size-wise it has 3 options that are meant to accommodate extra small, small, medium, or large fits, even with a rounder shape.

The liner is sweat-absorbent and has Cool-On materials, with the added perks of being removable and washable. Its harness type comes with a quick-release buckle and an adjustable dial for a better fit. Glasses are also wearable with the Equi-Pro, as the visor is detachable. For safety, this piece has met the ASTM/SEI standard and it comes with a 3-year window for replacement.

---

Buying Guide

Even though we’ve listed every product’s specifications and attractive features, if you’re new to horse riding, you might not be 100% sure of what those mean and how to choose the perfect one for yourself. This is why in this part of the article we’re going to focus on a detailed explanation for each important aspect that you should consider before taking your wallet out.

Safety

This aspect splits into 3 different parts, each having a say in how protected you are by your equipment.

• Materials: The material of the outer shell combined with that of the inner padding have the largest say in how effective the impact protection will be. The most commonly used ones are sturdy ABS for the shell and EPS foam for the inner side.
• Standards Met: These refer to the tests a product has gone through to see how well it resists. Those that meet multiple standards have the ability to keep you safe even if you happen to fall off your horse or get hit in the head by its hooves.
• MIPS: This is a new technology that is being implemented, thus not many companies have added it to their products yet. It stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System and implies adding a new layer on the inside. What that layer does is cancel out the rotation caused by angled hits or impacts by allowing the shell to slip on it, this way cutting down on the risks of serious brain trauma.

Fitting

The next important detail is how the equipment fits on your head. The first thing you should do is know the measurements of your head and how they translate into sizes. Ideally, you should get a professional fitting to be sure. If a helmet fits on your head too tight (you’ll probably feel it first around the forehead or ears) or too loose (as in, it can be moved around while it sits on your head), you’ve got the wrong size. Always look for a snug fit because they tend to take the shape of your head, the same way most shoes do with feet. If you have doubts about it, just try the 2 finger test behind your ear and you’ll be able to tell. What you should also know from the measurements is what shape you’ll need. In this case, the usual shapes available are Round, Regular, and Long Oval.

Liner

The liner refers to the extra layer inside that is added for comfort and, with some, to absorb sweat. It’s usually made of some kind of fabric or foam padding, or it’s just a simple mesh cover. If you tend to sweat a lot, you might want to go for a liner that can be removed for replacing, or you can also get washable options. Liners can also help with the fit since you can get them in different thickness options or with a flip-fold design. Other features could be anti-microbial, fast drying, or Cool-On so you don’t feel uncomfortable when removing and putting it back on.

Adjustability

Another important factor on how well fitting goes has to do with the adjustable components. With this type of product, the usual adjustability options you’ll have are:

• The harness is usually made of multiple straps that go inside the helmet, on either side of your face, and under the chin. The way to adjust it can be by using either some of the straps or, if it has them in the back, a dial or laces that you could tighten up or loosen down.
• The chin strap, the part that goes under the chin, comes with an adjuster and a buckle to secure it. Some also come with pads that can absorb sweat and also keep the strap from digging into your face.
• (Optional) The visor can also be an adjustable detail, certain models allowing you to detach it.

Style

As you’ve probably noticed, nowadays there are more than one or two styles available, and you are free to choose the shape, color, and finish that best suits you. Some models come with a more compact outer shell and tend to be the favorites among riders, and others come in the classic, a little bulkier look. The color variety is decent, with some also having graphic designs on them, and the finishes you could choose from include matte, glossy, metallic, leather, mesh, suede, and so on.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

---

Conclusion

To sum it all up, get a proper fitting before buying, replace your equipment after a serious fall or after 5 years, don’t use other types that are not safety tested, and never forget to bring your helmet with you whenever you go riding. Safety should be your number one priority.

As a final refresh, here are the models that stuck with us when we first created this list of reviews:

Best Horseback Riding Helmet for Sale: Tipperary Windsor Wide Brim Helmet with MIPS
The Tipperary Windsor isn’t sitting at the top of the list for nothing. Its charming design can make even a beginner look like a professional with a smooth matte finish and glossy trimmings. The durable, ASTM safety-tested materials that make up the shell will keep you protected, and together with the MIPS, concussions won’t be an issue. Adjustability is possible thanks to the harness straps, back dial, and inner liner that can be removed. Choose one of the 3 sizes available and enjoy the 2-year window with discounted replacements.

Editor’s Choice: One K Defender Black Matte
One K managed to design the Defender in such a way that it became our favorite piece out of them all. The harmony between the shell construction and the stainless steel mesh-covered vents creates an elegant picture that is available in 3 colors, 2 finishes, and 6 sizes to fit a wide range of riders. The wear is comfortable thanks to the lined, padded and adjustable harness, and to the removable, anti-microbial liner that can absorb sweat. Other than beauty and practicality, the Defender offers a safe ride, as its build meets proper testing standards.

Best Horseback Riding Helmet for Hot Weather: Troxel Spirit Performance Helmet
If you happen to be in a hotter climate but still want to enjoy the feeling of freedom that comes with horse riding, a headpiece that comes with plenty of ventilation and protection is the way to go. This is why the Troxel Spirit model would be a perfect fit for you, as it has 15 ventilation slots to keep you cool and worry-free when it comes to a heatstroke. The safety standards met by the Spirit are 2 in number and they are coupled with the sturdy ABS shell that adds to your protection. Two other aspects worth mentioning are the FlipFold liner and the DialFit systems that will provide a snug fit for your head.

Best Horseback Riding Helmet for Kids: Charles Owen JR8 Helmet
The JR8 is the best choice for those who want to get matching headgear with their children, as it comes in 11 sizes to provide a wide fitting range. It also comes with two vents, a washable liner, a soft harness, and a sturdy shell to keep you safe. The outer suede lining is a microfiber and it can hold up to bad weather as well, and coupled with the wide peak you won’t have anything to worry about during your rides.