Guide to Horse Riding Hats

A well-fitted, high-quality riding hat is one of the most essential pieces of safety equipment for any equestrian. Whether you’re a casual rider, competitive showjumper, or eventing enthusiast, the right riding hat provides crucial protection while complementing your overall riding attire.

With various styles, safety standards, materials, and fit options available, choosing the perfect hat can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about riding hats, helping you select the best option for your needs.

Types of Riding Hats

Riding hats come in a few different styles, each suited to different riding disciplines and personal preferences. Here are the main types to consider:

Riding Hats

Riding hats feature an integrated fixed peak, which provides shade from the sun and some protection from rain. They offer a traditional aesthetic, making them a top choice for dressage, showjumping, and everyday hacking. While stylish, they are generally not recommended for high-risk activities like cross-country, where a peak could present additional safety concerns.

Best of Riding Hats

Karben Sienna Riding Hat

The Karben Sienna Riding Hat offers a low-profile, lightweight design for a secure yet barely-there feel. Its micro-adjustable dial system ensures a custom fit, while the 3D mesh liner and air vents enhance breathability. A flexible peak provides sun protection and impact absorption, while the quick-release buckle and anti-rub chin guard maximise comfort. Certified to PAS 015:2011 and BSI Kitemark standards, it’s a stylish, reliable choice for all riders.

Charles Owen Ayr 8 Plus Leather Look Riding Hat

Blending elegance with advanced technology, the Charles Owen Ayr 8 Plus features leather-look side panels for durability and easy maintenance. Its central mesh panel ensures excellent airflow, while the removable liner keeps the helmet fresh. The GRpx® harness provides a secure fit, and it meets VG1, ASTM, and PAS 015 safety standards, making it a premium option for riders prioritising performance and protection.

Champion Evolution Puissance Riding Hat

The Champion Evolution Puissance Riding Hat is a lightweight, low-profile fibreglass riding hat designed for maximum impact resistance. Its synthetic suede finish, combined with high-tech spacer and leather accents, creates a refined look. The Vent-Air system enhances airflow, while a removable breathable liner ensures long-term comfort. Featuring a four-point padded harness with rear lacing and a quick-release buckle, it meets PAS 015:2011, VG1, and ASTM F1163-15 safety standards.

Jockey Skull Caps

Jockey skull caps are designed with a smooth, round shape and no fixed peak, ensuring maximum protection without the risk of a peak catching or breaking in the event of a fall. These are commonly used in eventing, cross-country, and racing. Skull caps are often worn with removable silk covers, allowing riders to personalise their look.

Best of Jockey Skull Caps

Charles Owen Pro II Plus Jockey Skull

The Charles Owen Pro II Plus offers top-tier safety in a low-profile design. Built from the same shell as the Ayr 8 and Hampton Velvet models, it provides a secure fit with options for both oval and round head shapes. The GRpx® harness enhances stability with suction cups and an adjustable lace, while the removable liner ensures lasting freshness. Meeting VG1, ASTM, and PAS 015 standards, this versatile skull is trusted by riders from training to top-level eventing.

Champion Ventair Deluxe Jockey Skull

Lightweight and durable, the Champion Ventair Deluxe Jockey Skull is built for breathability and protection. Its fibreglass shell provides impact resistance, while the Vent-Air system keeps riders cool. The four-point padded leather harness, rear lacing, and quick-release buckle ensure a snug, secure fit. A breathable microfibre liner enhances comfort and is easy to maintain. Certified to PAS 015:2011, VG1, and ASTM F1163-15, it’s a reliable choice for eventing, cross-country, and everyday riding.

KEP Smart Jockey XC Skull

Combining Italian craftsmanship with advanced safety, the KEP Smart Jockey XC Skull is a lightweight, impact-resistant choice. The KEP Air Control System optimises airflow, while the hypoallergenic eco-leather strap provides comfort and stability. A washable Coolmax® lining ensures freshness, and interchangeable liners allow for an adjustable fit. Sleek and high-performing, this helmet offers premium protection without the premium price tag.

How to Choose the Right Riding Hat

When selecting a riding hat, there are several key factors to consider to ensure maximum safety, comfort, and suitability for your riding discipline.

Safety Standards

Ensuring your riding hat meets the latest safety standards is essential. Different countries and organisations have specific regulations, so it’s important to check that your helmet complies with the relevant requirements. Look for certifications such as:

●        PAS 015 – A rigorous British safety standard that offers high impact protection and is tested for crush resistance and stability. Often required for eventing and cross-country riding.

●        VG1 – A European standard that provides comprehensive impact protection and is recognised across various riding disciplines.

●        ASTM F1163 – A US standard that ensures helmets undergo impact absorption, penetration resistance, and retention system strength testing.

●        Snell E2021 – A higher-level certification with stricter impact and crush resistance tests, often required for professional and high-risk equestrian sports.

●        Kitemark or SEI Certification – These indicate that the helmet has undergone independent testing beyond the minimum legal safety standards.

Choosing a riding hat that meets or exceeds these safety regulations will give you peace of mind when in the saddle. Some competitions and riding schools may require specific certifications, so always check the requirements before purchasing.

Fit and Comfort

A well-fitting riding hat should feel snug but not overly tight. It should sit level on your head, covering your forehead without obstructing vision. A secure fit ensures the helmet won’t move excessively during riding or in the event of a fall. Many modern helmets include cushioned liners, adjustable harnesses, or dial-fit systems to improve comfort and provide minor size adjustments. Measuring your head circumference and consulting the manufacturer’s size guide will help you find the best fit.

Riding Discipline

Your choice of riding hat should reflect the type of riding you do. Skull caps, with their streamlined, peakless design, are ideal for eventing and cross-country, where maximum protection is needed. Peaked helmets offer a traditional look and are often preferred in dressage and showjumping. For hacking and everyday riding, the choice comes down to personal preference. Some equestrian disciplines, such as polo and racing, require specialist helmets designed for high-impact protection.

Materials and Construction

Modern riding hats are crafted from advanced materials designed to offer durability, comfort, and maximum protection. The outer shell is typically made from high-impact materials such as ABS plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber composites, all of which provide excellent shock absorption while remaining lightweight. Some high-end models incorporate Kevlar reinforcement for added strength without increasing weight

Inside, the helmet features a layer of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is specifically engineered to absorb and dissipate impact energy in the event of a fall. This foam compresses upon impact, reducing the force transmitted to the rider’s head.

To enhance comfort, many helmets come with moisture-wicking, antibacterial linings that help regulate temperature and reduce sweat buildup. Advanced ventilation systems, often with strategically placed air channels, promote airflow and keep riders cool, particularly in warm weather or during intense riding sessions.

Adjustable harnesses and dial-fit systems allow for a more tailored fit, ensuring the helmet remains securely in place while riding. Some designs also feature removable and washable liners, which help maintain hygiene and extend the lifespan of the helmet.

Caring for Your Riding Hat

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your riding hat remains safe, comfortable, and long-lasting. Regular cleaning helps maintain its appearance and functionality. The exterior should be wiped down with a damp cloth or a mild soap solution to remove dirt, dust, and sweat. For helmets with suede or velvet finishes, a soft brush or sponge can be used to gently lift dirt without damaging the material.

Storage is equally important. Always keep your helmet in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Prolonged exposure to heat or moisture can weaken the helmet’s materials, reducing its protective capabilities. A padded helmet bag provides extra protection when transporting or storing your hat.

Even minor impacts, such as dropping your helmet, can compromise its structural integrity, making it less effective in the event of a fall. Helmets should be handled with care and inspected regularly for cracks, dents, or loose padding.

Regardless of visible damage, helmets should be replaced every 3–5 years, as materials can degrade over time due to wear, sweat, and environmental exposure. If you experience a fall where your head makes contact with the ground, it’s essential to replace your helmet immediately (even if there are no obvious signs of damage) as the internal protective foam may have been compressed.

Find Your Perfect Riding Hat with Ayr Equestrian

Investing in a high-quality riding hat is a crucial step in ensuring your safety and comfort while riding. With various styles, safety features, and materials available, there is a perfect riding hat for every rider. Use this guide to find the ideal helmet that suits your needs, and remember to prioritise fit and safety above all else.