Requirements for Children's Horseback Riding Helmets

Horseback riding helmets should always be worn by any child who is going to ride a horse. The brain of a child through the teen years is still growing and developing, making them susceptible to a serious brain injury if not properly protected during riding. Purchasing a quality equine helmet for a child is an essential item for any young rider.

• A properly-fitted horseback riding helmet is essential for all children who are going to participate in horseback riding. Helmets come in a variety of youth sizes. In order to determine the proper size helmet for a child you need to measure the circumference of the child’s head by measuring from 1 inch above the eyebrow to the back of the head, just above the ears. This measurement should be used to determine the correct size riding helmet for the individual child.

• It is important to replace a child’s riding helmet every few years. There is a date printed inside of horseback riding helmets which lets the consumer know when the helmet was inspected for safety. This date should not be any more than 5 years old to provide the best benefits to the child. Any riding helmet that has been used significantly or suffered hard falls should be replaced as well to ensure the safety of the child.

• Make sure that any children's riding helmet you purchase has been inspected by The American Society for Testing and Materials Safety Equipment Institute. This group is responsible for monitoring the production of horseback riding helmets to ensure that the helmet meets all safety standards prior to being sold to consumers.