A horseback riding helmet is the last line of defence in a riding incident. A helmet can be the difference between life and death for you or your child. In addition, it will help reduce the severity of a head injury. It is important the helmet is in good condition, under 5 years old, has not seen impact, is fitted correctly, and properly secured.
When to get a new helmet:
1)at least after 5 years of its first wear or date of purchase (due to unseen natural material deterioration, wear and tear, evolving helmet standards and technology) or
2)if is has suffered any impact, including dropping it on a hard surface (it is only designed for 1 impact due to damage of the middle protective layer) or
3)if the helmet no longer fits snug or
4)if the straps or fasteners are damaged, whichever is first.
Usual Helmet Damage
It can be difficult to determine if a helmet is damaged just by looking at it, the damage is usually obtained by the middle layer between the hard, outer shell and soft, head band. The middle layer offers the greatest protection but is also the most delicate. This emphasizes the importance of replacing the helmet after 5 years or an impact, whichever is first.
Helmet Care Take care of the helmet by keeping it in a protective bag, like a helmet bag to prevent damage. Do not store a helmet in direct sunlight, where the temperature could exceed 130°F | 54°C or where it could freeze. Extreme temperatures will affect the shock-absorbing ability of the helmet. (tipperary. n.d.)
Horseback riding helmets is a piece of safety equipment. It can save a riders life and reduce the severity of a head injury. It is important to follow the manufacturers recommendations to ensure the helmet can provide the protection it is designed to do. Replace your helmet after the 5 year expiry, after an impact, if it no longer fits properly or it doesn’t secure. There are many styles and price points of horseback riding helmets available to suit every riders needs. Protect your brain and wear a helmet.
References:
Charles Owen. (2021.) When you should replace a riding helmet. https://www.charlesowen.com/guides/why-should-you-replace-your-helmet-after-a-fall.html
Charles Owen. (N.d.). How to measure and fit a riding helmet. Retrieved from https://www.charlesowen.com/guides/how-to-measure-head-riding-helmet.html
Tipperary (n.d.). Care and Cleaning. Retrieved from https://tipperaryequestrian.com/care-and-cleaning
Troxel Helmets (n.d.). FAQ. Retrieved from https://www.troxelhelmets.com/faqs
Sorli, J.M. (2000). Equestrian injuries: a five year review of hospital admissions in British Columbia, Canada. Retrieved from https://injuryprevention.bmj.com/content/6/1/59
Comments