Helmets

A properly fitted, ASTM/SEI-certified riding helmet is the single most important piece of equipment you own as an equestrian. Everything else in your kit is replaceable. We don't take helmets lightly, which is why every helmet in our collection meets or exceeds current safety certification standards.

ASTM/SEI certification means the helmet has been independently tested against the American Society for Testing and Materials standard for equestrian use and carries the Safety Equipment  Institute seal. USEF rules require all riders at licensed competitions to wear a helmet meeting this standard. Beyond compliance, certification gives you real-world assurance that the helmet is engineered to absorb impact in a fall.

Suomy helmets represent the pinnacle of what a riding helmet can be. The Italian motorsport brand applied the same engineering philosophy behind their motorcycle racing helmets to develop the Suomy Apex, a riding helmet with a lightweight composite shell, outstanding ventilation, and a fit system that stays secure without
creating pressure points over long rides. Certified to ASTM F1163-15, EN 1384:2017, and VG1 standards, Suomy helmets are a  favorite among serious competitors who want both safety and style without compromise.

Helmet fit is non-negotiable. A helmet that sits too high on your forehead, tilts back, or wobbles side-to-side is not protecting you properly, no matter how expensive it is. The correct fit means the helmet sits level, approximately two finger-widths above your eyebrows, and doesn't move when you shake your head with the
harness fastened. 

Replace your helmet after any significant impact, even if there's no visible damage. Helmet foam is designed to compress on impact and may not protect you properly a second time. Most manufacturers recommend replacement every five years regardless of falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What helmet do I need for horse riding?
For most English disciplines in the United States, you need a helmet that meets or exceeds the ASTM F1163 standard for equestrian use and carries the SEI certification tag. USEF-licensed competitions mandate this. Many helmets also carry additional international certifications (VG1, EN 1384, PAS 015) which provide further validation of their safety performance. The most important thing is that it fits correctly. A certified helmet that doesn't fit is far less protective than one that does.

How often should I replace my riding helmet?
Replace your helmet immediately after any significant fall or impact, even if there is no visible damage. The internal foam liner is designed to absorb impact by compressing. Once compressed, it won't protect you the same way in a subsequent fall. Outside of falls, most manufacturers recommend replacing helmets every three to five years due to normal wear, UV degradation, and evolving safety standards. If you're unsure about a helmet's condition, err on the side of replacement.

Are Suomy helmets good for horse riding?
Suomy is an Italian brand with deep roots in motorsport safety engineering, and their equestrian helmets bring that same technical approach to the riding world. The Suomy Apex meets ASTM F1163-15, EN 1384:2017, and VG1 01.040 2014-12 certifications, and features a lightweight composite shell with excellent ventilation, meaningful upgrade over basic ABS shells for riders who spend long hours in the saddle. They're a strong choice
for riders who want a competition-ready helmet with exceptional build quality.

Can I wear any bicycle or sports helmet for horse riding?
No. Bicycle helmets, ski helmets, and other sports helmets are not certified for equestrian use and will not meet USEF or ASTM equestrian standards. They're designed to protect against different types of impacts at different speeds and angles than a fall from a horse. Always use a helmet specifically certified to the ASTM F1163
equestrian standard when riding.

Read our guide: How to Choose a Riding Helmet