Horseback riding is an incredible experience for kids – it teaches responsibility, builds confidence, and connects them with nature. But like any sport, it comes with risks. That’s why choosing the best horse riding helmets for kids isn’t just a good idea; it’s absolutely essential for their safety. A high-quality helmet is the most vital piece of equestrian gear, protecting their developing brains from potential injuries.
We know how overwhelming it can be to sift through countless options, trying to find a helmet that offers top-notch protection, comfort, and a great fit for your child. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best options available, ensuring your young rider is well-protected every time they saddle up.
Why a Good Kids’ Riding Helmet is Non-Negotiable
A fall from a horse, even at a standstill, can be serious. Head injuries are a significant concern in equestrian sports, and a properly fitted, certified helmet is the first line of defense. When we talk about safety, we’re looking for helmets that meet recognized safety standards, such as ASTM F1163 and SEI certification. These certifications mean the helmet has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it can withstand impact and protect against serious head trauma. Beyond safety, comfort and a secure fit are crucial; a helmet that’s uncomfortable or shifts around can distract a rider and compromise its protective capabilities.
What to Look For in the Best Horse Riding Helmets for Kids
Before diving into our top picks, let’s quickly review the key features that make a great youth riding helmet:
- Safety Certifications: Always check for ASTM F1163 and SEI certifications. These are non-negotiable for proper head protection.
- Fit & Adjustability: A snug, yet comfortable fit is paramount. Look for helmets with adjustable chin straps and internal padding systems to customize the fit as your child grows.
- Ventilation: Riding can be hot work! Good airflow through strategically placed vents helps keep your child cool and comfortable, reducing sweat and distractions.
- Durability: Kids can be tough on their gear. A helmet with a sturdy outer shell will withstand the bumps and scrapes of active use.
- Comfort & Weight: Lightweight materials and soft, moisture-wicking liners contribute to overall comfort, making it more likely your child will want to wear their helmet.
- Style: Let’s be honest, if it looks cool, kids are more likely to wear it without a fuss! Many modern helmets offer sleek designs and various color options.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the best horse riding helmets for kids available today.
Troxel Sport 2.0 Injection Molded Horse Riding Helmet
The Troxel Sport 2.0 is a fantastic all-around choice for young riders, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and essential safety features. This upgraded equestrian comfort helmet is designed to be sturdy yet lightweight, making it ideal for everything from riding lessons to leisure riding. Its integrated visor provides a bit of shade, while the sleek matte finish ensures your child looks stylish in the saddle. Troxel is known for its reliable youth riding gear, and this helmet certainly lives up to that reputation.
- Key Features:
- Sturdy injection molded shell with integrated visor for durability.
- Improved fit system that adapts to various head shapes.
- Available in a wide range of matte-finish colors.
- Seven large vents for maximum airflow and cooling.
- Removable, washable headliner for easy care.
- Versatile for all types of riders and activities.
- Pros:
- Excellent ventilation keeps riders cool.
- Comfortable and adaptable fit.
- Easy to clean with a removable liner.
- Stylish matte finish.
- Suitable for a wide age range, including children.
- Cons:
- Some users might prefer a more premium feel.
- Visor is integrated, not removable.
- User Impressions: Parents consistently praise the Troxel Sport 2.0 for its comfortable fit and effective ventilation, noting that their kids are happy to wear it for extended periods. Many appreciate the ease of cleaning the removable liner.
- See it on Amazon here
Adjustable Horse Riding Kids Helmet Equestrian for 2 to 6 Years Old
Specifically designed with the youngest equestrians in mind, this adjustable kids’ helmet is perfect for toddlers and pre-schoolers taking their first steps into the world of horses. It focuses on providing essential safety for children aged 2 to 6, ensuring their delicate heads are well-protected. The vibrant, fully ventilated design and soft inner padding make it a comfortable choice, and its SEI certification gives parents peace of mind about its safety standards. It’s truly one of the best horse riding helmets for kids just starting out.
- Key Features:
- Adjustable vented design specifically for 2-6 year olds.
- Tough PVC outer shell with ventilation holes around the edge and top.
- SEI certified, meeting approved safety standards.
- Soft, comfortable, fully padded, and lined interior.
- Adjustable chin strap for a secure fit.
- Available in sizes XS (48-51cm) and S (51-54cm) for specific age ranges.
- Pros:
- Specifically designed and sized for very young children.
- SEI certified for reliable safety.
- Highly adjustable chin strap ensures a snug fit.
- Comfortable padding for sensitive heads.
- Good ventilation for little riders.
- Cons:
- Limited age range (2-6 years old), so kids will outgrow it quickly.
- Basic aesthetic compared to some other brands.
- User Impressions: Reviewers highlight how well this helmet fits younger children, often struggling to find properly sized equestrian head protection. Parents feel confident in its safety credentials and appreciate the comfort it provides for their little ones.
- See it on Amazon here
Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet (Black, Small/Medium)
The Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet is a popular choice for aspiring riders, offering a fantastic blend of safety, comfort, and a sleek design without breaking the bank. Engineered with a lightweight yet durable ABS material, this helmet is built to last through countless riding lessons and adventures. Its focus on superior safety, combined with thoughtful comfort features like effective ventilation, makes it a standout option for youth riders over 12 and adults alike. It’s a great example of a helmet that caters to both safety and rider experience.
- Key Features:
- Exclusive YKK adjuster clip and buckle for a snug, comfortable fit.
- ASTM F1163-15 and SEI Certified for superior safety standards.
- Made with high-grade, lightweight ABS material for durability.
- Low-profile vents to keep the head cool and comfortable.
- Designed for maximum comfort, staying off the rider’s face.
- Pros:
- High safety certifications (ASTM & SEI).
- Durable yet lightweight construction.
- Excellent comfort design with an effective adjuster.
- Good ventilation for temperature regulation.
- Stylish, low-profile appearance.
- Cons:
- Primarily for riders over 12, may not fit younger children.
- Limited color options compared to some other brands.
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend the Ovation Deluxe Schooler for its secure and comfortable fit, often noting that it feels much more expensive than it is. The safety certifications are a huge plus for parents, and riders appreciate the effective cooling.
- See it on Amazon here
Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet Small/Medium Black (Hat…)
Another excellent variant of the highly-regarded Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet, this version continues to deliver on the promise of superior safety and rider comfort. It’s particularly well-suited for older children and young teenagers transitioning into more serious riding, making it one of the solid contenders for the best horse riding helmets for kids in that age bracket. The emphasis on a snug, secure fit through its unique adjustment system ensures that the helmet stays put, providing consistent head protection during all equestrian activities.
- Key Features:
- Exclusive YKK adjuster clip and buckle for a snug fit, positioned for comfort.
- ASTM F1163-15 and SEI Certified for top-tier safety standards.
- Constructed with high-grade, lightweight ABS material for longevity.
- Low profile vents designed to keep the head cool and comfortable during rides.
- Recommended for riders over 12 years old due to sizing.
- Pros:
- Meets rigorous safety certifications (ASTM & SEI).
- Comfortable and secure fit with intelligent buckle placement.
- Robust construction ensures durability.
- Effective ventilation system.
- Suitable for older kids and young adults, offering good value.
- Cons:
- Sizing geared towards older children (12+), so not for younger riders.
- Style is relatively classic, less vibrant than some youth-specific options.
- User Impressions: This model consistently receives high marks for its secure fit and the peace of mind offered by its safety certifications. Riders appreciate its lightweight feel and the fact that it doesn’t cause overheating, even during intense activity.
- See it on Amazon here
Troxel Sport 2.0 Injection Molded Horse Riding Helmet
Rounding out our list, the Troxel Sport 2.0 makes another appearance, reaffirming its position as a go-to choice for dependable, comfortable, and safe equestrian head protection for children. This model stands out for its versatility, adapting well to various riding disciplines and rider levels. Its focus on an improved fit, coupled with excellent ventilation and easy maintenance, ensures that kids will not only be safe but also comfortable during their time in the saddle. It’s truly one of the most accessible and effective options when considering the best horse riding helmets for kids.
- Key Features:
- Equestrian Comfort Helmet with sturdy injection molded shell and integrated visor.
- Improved fit system effortlessly adapts to various head shapes.
- Matte-finish accessory available in a wide range of solid colors.
- Seven large vents maximize airflow, keeping the rider cool.
- Removable washable headliner for simple care and a fresh experience.
- Versatile use for all types of riders, including men, women, and children.
- Pros:
- Excellent all-purpose helmet for various riding activities.
- Superior ventilation prevents overheating.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Comfortable and lightweight for prolonged wear.
- Offers good value for its features and quality.
- Cons:
- Integrated visor might not suit all preferences.
- Some riders might prefer a more advanced adjustment system.
- User Impressions: Many parents choose the Troxel Sport 2.0 specifically because it’s comfortable enough that their children don’t complain about wearing it. They frequently commend its robust construction and how well it holds up to regular use, making it a smart investment.
- See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Right Size for Your Child
Getting the correct helmet size is critical for effective head protection. A helmet that’s too big won’t offer proper protection, and one that’s too small will be uncomfortable and could cause headaches.
Here’s how to measure your child’s head:
1. Use a flexible measuring tape.
2. Wrap the tape around your child’s head, just above their eyebrows and ears, at the widest part.
3. Note the measurement in centimeters (cm).
4. Compare this measurement to the helmet manufacturer’s sizing chart.
When trying on a helmet, it should fit snugly but not uncomfortably tight. It shouldn’t shift or wobble when your child shakes their head. The chin strap should be adjusted so that only one or two fingers can fit underneath it.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why is an SEI certification important for a kids’ horse riding helmet?
A1: SEI (Safety Equipment Institute) certification indicates that a helmet has been independently tested and meets the safety standards set by ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials), specifically ASTM F1163. This means the helmet provides a verified level of protection against impacts, giving parents peace of mind.
Q2: How often should I replace my child’s riding helmet?
A2: Helmets should generally be replaced every 3-5 years, even if they haven’t been involved in a fall, because materials can degrade over time. Crucially, any helmet that has sustained an impact, even if there’s no visible damage, must be replaced immediately.
Q3: Can my child use a bike helmet for horse riding?
A3: No, absolutely not. Bike helmets are designed to protect against different types of impacts than equestrian helmets. Horse riding helmets are specifically engineered to withstand impacts from falls from a greater height and potential hoof strikes, meeting much stricter equestrian safety standards.
Q4: How do I clean my child’s horse riding helmet?
A4: For the outer shell, wipe it clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air dry. Many modern helmets, like the Troxel Sport 2.0, feature removable, washable liners, which you can typically hand wash with mild soap and air dry. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.
Q5: What’s the difference between “low-profile” and regular helmets?
A5: “Low-profile” helmets are designed to sit closer to the head, offering a more streamlined and less bulky appearance. This can be more aesthetically pleasing and sometimes offer a slightly lighter feel, though safety is always the primary consideration, regardless of profile.
Q6: What if my child is between sizes?
A6: If your child’s head measurement falls between two sizes on a manufacturer’s chart, it’s generally best to go with the smaller size, especially if the helmet has an adjustable fit system. A snug fit is crucial for safety. However, always try on both sizes if possible to ensure comfort and no pressure points.
Q7: Should a child wear a hat under their riding helmet?
A7: It’s generally not recommended to wear a thick hat or baseball cap under a riding helmet as it can interfere with the helmet’s fit and reduce its protective capability. A thin skull cap or hairnet, designed to be worn under helmets, is usually acceptable to manage hair or provide a thin layer of warmth.
Selecting the best horse riding helmets for kids is a crucial step in ensuring their safety and enjoyment of equestrian sports. By prioritizing certified head protection, a secure fit, and comfortable features, you’re not just buying a helmet; you’re investing in your child’s well-being. We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision and gives you peace of mind as your young rider embarks on their next adventure!