What can be more relaxing or exhilarating than riding on the back of a horse your hair blowing in the wind? It sounds like a wonderful way to spend the day, doesn’t it? However, a single fall can change the course of your life. You may not realize but you are almost eight feet off the ground when sitting on the back of a horse. You can get permanent brain damage simply from falling just two feet down.

One of the most important security measures in horseback riding is wearing a helmet. You’ll often hear people complain they don't want to because they are ugly or bulky. The truth is there are many different types of helmets. You’ll undoubtedly find one you'll like. It is easy anymore to find a nice-looking and comfy helmet which can protect your head and provide much needed peace of mind.

Why do we wear a helmet? We wear a helmet for our security. If we ever fall off a horse, we can fall on our head or neck and could possibly die or most of the time be seriously injured. Wearing a helmet provides you head and neck security. It will make the shock less painful and can prevent you to have an injury.

Horse riding helmets are sold in styles for the many different equestrian disciplines such as Western, English, racing and others. Sport helmets are appropriate for schooling and hacking. Dress helmets are required for showing, however inexpensive velvet covers can effortlessly convert those relaxed sport caps for the show ring.

All riders must carefully select a helmet and often times you’ll try on a few different helmets checking both comfort and fit. A good helmet must sit comfortably and level on the top of your head, around an inch from your eyebrows. The helmet is supposed to sit firmly and not move when the head is shook. Also, make sure the chin strap fits securely.

The most important standard in horse riding helmets is ASTM/SEI certification. This is one rule you certainly want to pay attention to. Helmets made for activities such as bicycling, skiing, hockey, or football are not intended to protect head injuries from a horse riding fall.

It's pretty simple to figure out if the helmet fits correctly. First, does it fit comfortably? The helmet shouldn’t move too much, actually it shouldn’t move at all. If it falls down over your eyes, then it is too big.