Horse riding clothing: the most important item of clothing is the helmet

Some people find horse riding clothing to be quite fancy! In fact, millions of dollars are spent each year in this industry. However, there is one piece of clothing that you cannot do without: a helmet. It doesn’t matter how chic you look if you suffer a brain injury that leaves you debilitated or worse.

There is an inherent risk of injury in horseback riding, just like in other sports. Any time you place yourself in the position of sustaining a head injury (by falling), you MUST take the necessary precautions to wear a helmet. If soccer players find it necessary in their sport, it is certainly a requirement on horseback.

The basic structure of a helmet, regardless of outward appearance, is a plastic shell that will spread the shock of an impact if you fall and hit your head. There’s also a foam liner that works to do the same thing. These are the critical elements of your helmet that serve to protect you from head injury.

However, just because you have this helmet on your head doesn’t mean it offers you any protection unless you have it on properly. Helmets come with a retaining harness that must be attached every time you ride. Without cheats! If your helmet flies off while spilling, it’s of no use to you. Adjust the straps so that it holds the helmet properly in place.

So when is a helmet properly placed on the head? The helmet should be snug enough that, once it is on and fastened, your scalp will move with the helmet when you move it back and forth. Wear the helmet so that it is no more than one inch above your eyebrows, covering your forehead. If it slides forward over the eyes, it’s too loose. Try several brands until you find the one that suits you best. It’s vital to your health that you get it right!

Although they may look bulky, they are actually much lighter than you might think. They also have headliners, a fabric located inside the helmet with the foam lining, which is designed to keep the head dry and cool. Also, most helmets have air vents that help keep you cool and reduce weight a bit.

DO NOT wear a bicycle helmet for horseback riding! They are designed differently and do not offer the same protection as horse riding helmets. In fact, it is highly recommended that you use helmets that are approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials. You will see a label that says “ASTM/SEI Certified” on the helmet which ensures that the helmet has been properly tested for safety.

Years ago, we often didn’t ride our horses with hooves, or use them on bikes, scooters, skates, or the like! We had riding clothes that usually included a good pair of boots, but helmets were not considered a necessity. Since those days, we have learned a lot about head injuries and how to protect ourselves and our children from what we may have luckily escaped.

Activities with horses carry an inherent danger that requires us to be constantly vigilant in complying with safe habits and practices. Whether you’re leading a horse, cleaning a stable, or cross-tying, always keep in mind the safest ways to behave to keep yourself out of harm’s way. One of the easiest ways to avoid injury is to wear a helmet every time you ride your horse. Then, and only then, go out and buy all the riding clothes your heart desires!

For more information on horseback riding clothing and helmets and other equipment, visit http://www.HorseRidingBootsGuide.com and http://www.EquestrianRiderGuide.com.