A helmet is an important piece of equipment whenever you’re using – no matter your degree or self-discipline. Selecting from the finest using hats to fit your wants won’t solely allow you to keep away from head accidents, however it should let you carry out at your finest, no matter your chosen self-discipline. It may be tough to know which is the most effective using hat for you as there are such a lot of trendy choices that embody an unlimited quantity of know-how throughout very completely different worth factors.
When ought to I exchange my using hat?
Your hat ought to at all times get replaced if it has suffered any form of influence. Though it might seem effective from the skin, its the within that’s necessary. For that reason, shopping for hats second hand will not be advisable. Your hat additionally wants changing if it’s greater than two to a few previous as a result of the protecting liner and inside padding may have begun to deteriorate with publicity to warmth and repeated use.
To assist your hat final so long as potential, retailer it in a cool setting – keep away from leaving it within the automotive. Retaining it in a protecting hat bag is a perfect solution to hold it cushioned and away from sturdy daylight.
For those who compete, you’ll additionally must control the hat requirements which can be accepted by your governing physique – if these change, then it’s possible you’ll must put money into a brand new, rule-compliant hat.
How to decide on the most effective using hat for you
The very first thing to think about when selecting the most effective helmet for you is the sort – if you happen to compete, every self-discipline has its personal guidelines for what helmets could be worn, which incorporates minimal hat requirements for competitors necessities, and generally model (for instance, for cross-country you’ll want a hat with no mounted peak) and color.
Then you’ll want to take into consideration how a lot safety every helmet provides you – completely different security requirements check for several types of accidents – it’s finest to decide on a helmet with as many security requirements as potential.
It’s additionally smart to think about what options every helmet has that improve the consolation or look – these may embody detachable headbands, air flow programs, extensive peaks, MIPS know-how or being vegan pleasant.The model and end of a helmet can let you present your character. As of late you will discover the whole lot from probably the most conventional velvet to totally customised sparkle.
When contemplating funds, at all times purchase the most effective you possibly can afford, and keep in mind that the costliest may not be the most effective. Within the UK, helmets made to suit 55cm and beneath (often little one sizes) are VAT free. For those who’re on a good funds, we’ve rounded up the finest using hats beneath £100.
Lastly, it’s actually necessary to make certain that your helmet is an effective match. Horse & Hound strongly advises that you simply get your hat fitted by a BETA-trained skilled earlier than making a purchase order – the identical recommendation goes for physique protectors, too. Discover out in case your native tack store can present this service right here.
Greatest using hats – peaked helmets
Charles Owen Luna
Colors: Black gloss, black matte or midnight | Sizes: 52–61cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £220 |
The Luna incorporates a air flow system beneath the ring along with a washable headband. There may be additionally the choice to have a large peak that helps enhance imaginative and prescient in any climate.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Shires Karben Avena
Colors: Black, navy or gray | Sizes: 53–61cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark) | RRP: £94.99 |
This helmet has easy outer with engaging shiny accents and sensible trims. It has a micro-adjustable dial system, entrance and rear air vents, a thermoregulating mesh liner and wicking headband.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, naylors.com or rideawaystore.com
Uvex Suxxeed Blaze
Colors: Black, navy or burgundy | Sizes: XS–S, S or M–L | Requirements: VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £325.50 |
With a shiny lacquer end, glitter insert and chrome-plated body, this adjustable helmet is actually eye-catching. It’s ventilated and breathable, with a washable inside lining. It makes use of a 3D IAS system to vary the peak and width for probably the most exact match, and the adjustable straps are made from a top quality artificial leather-based.
Within the UK? View now at equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Charles Owen Hampton
Colors: Black, navy, brown, bottle inexperienced or gray | Sizes: 52–65cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £197 |
This elegant and conventional velvet-covered hat is ideal for each the competitors area and hunt subject. It has a comfortable but sturdy tan harness, and incorporates a satin lining and plush headband. It has a low-profile model, is offered in a selection of 5 colors and meets a number of security requirements.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or equus.co.uk
Champion Air-Tech Deluxe
Colors: Black metallic, navy metallic, oyster metallic, ruby metallic or black silk | Sizes: S, M or L (52–61cm) | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £148 |
This low-profile helmet is made with a light-weight injection-moulded ABS shell, which makes it snug with out compromising on security. It options triple-mesh venting for superior airflow, a detachable crown-comfort padded, wicking lining. It makes use of a dial-fit system for full sizing adjustability and is offered with metallic or silk paint finishes.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Gatehouse Ciana
Colors: Matt black, matt black/gloss trim, matt navy/gloss trim, suedette navy/glitter trim or suedette black/glitter trim | Sizes: 52–62cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £192 |
This trendy and light-weight using hat has a fast drying, wicking padded liner that may be eliminated for laundry. Comes with a padded storage bag.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or rideawaystore.com
Whitaker New Rider Era Helmet
Colors: Black or navy | Sizes: XS–L | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £95 |
This adjustable helmet has a easy, matte impact outer and two entrance vents. It additionally has a breathable Coolmax lining, which is detachable and mechanically cleanable.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, gooutdoors.co.uk or blacks.co.uk
Gatehouse Conquest MKII
Colors: Black/rose gold, navy/rose gold, matt black or matt navy | Sizes: 54–62cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £166.66 |
This trendy and light-weight helmet has a versatile peak and is effectively ventilated with a quick-drying, wicking, padded and detachable liner. It is available in a padded storage bag and you should purchase alternative liners.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
One Ok Defender Air Glitter
Colors: Black or navy | Sizes: 51–62cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: £275 |
This using hat options real Swarovski crystals and glitter element that will help you stand out from the group. It may be adjusted with an air pump system – the three hidden air pockets within the liner are inflated by miserable its hid air pump till you get the fit your needs need. It additionally incorporates a quick-dry, anti-microbial liner, a number of air vents and a matte polycarbonate outer shell.
Within the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Uvex Exxential II MIPS
Colors: Black | Sizes: XS–XL | Requirements: VG1 | RRP: £149.95 |
This helmet combines sportiness, local weather management and security. It brings an replace to the Uvex Exxential II with the introduction of MIPS know-how, which is designed to additional defend the mind in opposition to rotational actions within the occasion of an accident.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or equus.co.uk
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Charles Owen Halo
Colors: Black or midnight in gloss or matt | Sizes: 52–61cm commonplace or 55–59cm spherical | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £370.50 |
This design advantages from 360° air flow beneath the halo ring, which is available in a selection of rose gold, platinum, black gloss or black matte. It has a washable headband with padded neck help, and the liner is anti-microbial. It fastens with a sustainably sourced leather-based harness and metallic buckle. A large peak (Halo Luxe) is offered to enhance imaginative and prescient in all-weathers and MIPS know-how is one other elective improve.
Within the UK? View now at rideawaystore.com
Rhinegold Reflective Professional
Colors: Black or navy | Sizes: 6⅜–7¼ | Requirements: PAS015:2011 | RRP: From £69.95 |
This historically styled ventilated hat incorporates a detachable, washable liner with a comfortable Coolmax-lined harness. The Dayglo reflective piping provides a small quantity of elevated visibility.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Kask Kooki Girl
Colors: Black or navy, in a matt or shine end | Sizes: 53–63cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: £306 |
This helmet is described as good for the present ring and education – an on a regular basis helmet that can match each outfit. It consists of two shells and has a breathable and antibacterial inside padding. It additionally options entrance and rear air flow and a comfortable chin strap.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Greatest using hats – jockey skulls
Charles Owen Professional II Plus
Colors: Black, navy, silver or rose gold | Sizes: 52–65cm commonplace or 56–59cm spherical | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £162 |
This helmet is the one triple-standard cranium cap with a detachable cup headband. It options entrance and rear air flow, a sized liner for an in depth, customised match, and a comfortable technical harness.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, naylors.com or sportsdirect.com
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Shires Karben Junior Cranium Cap
Colors: Black or gray | Sizes: 53–62cm | Requirements: PAS 015 (with Kitemark) | RRP: £61.99 |
This hat has 16 air flow holes and mesh sections within the padded lining for enhanced local weather management. The four-point adjustable harness is made out of hard-wearing, comfortable webbing with a comfortable cowl on the chin strap.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Gatehouse HS1-V
Colors: Anthracite gray or matt black | Sizes: 52–62cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, SNELL E2016 | RRP: From £230
That is an replace to the favored HS1 jockey cranium with the addition of vents to provide the advantage of air circulation, which helps to maintain your head cool. It incorporates a comfortable four-point padded harness with an antibacterial lining. This hat comes with a wise padded storage bag.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Charles Owen 4Star
Colors: Silver, black or navy | Sizes: 54–62cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, PAS 015 (with Kitemark), SNELL E2016, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: £230 |
This cranium is licensed to 4 high worldwide security requirements. It has 10 air flow slots and the choice of a heat-reflective silver end. It additionally comes with a ventilated silk.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, naylors.com or ebay.co.uk
Champion Revolve Vent-Air MIPS Jockey Cranium
Colors: Black | Sizes: 6¼–7¾ | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £208 |
An improve to the Champion Revolve Vent-Air cranium, this contemporary, light-weight helmet incorporates MIPS, which is the mind safety system that gives added safety in opposition to angular influence and damaging rotational forces. This helmet provides good air flow and luxury because of the central air flow strip and detachable crown consolation padding in breathable microfiber. It has a sturdy painted acrylic and sand end that helps to stop you silk slipping. It additionally incorporates a four-point comfortable leather-based harness with rear lacing adjustment.
Within the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk
Uvex Perfexxion II XC
Colors: Black | Sizes: XS/S, S/M, M/L or L/XL | Requirements: VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £260 |
This adjustable cranium has a slim, light-weight and ergonomic design, whereas the outer shell is prolonged over the neck for added safety and the ponytail cut-out is a handy function. The design consists of dynamic air flow for optimum local weather administration in addition to washable liner pads.
Within the UK? View now at equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Kask Dogma XC
Colors: Black or black/silver | Sizes: 50–63cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: £453
This helmet consists of all of the technical and design options which can be within the Dogma Pure Shine Chrome, together with the specialised air flow and match programs, however with out the height. It stands out with a easy matt-look body.
Within the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk
What are the present using hat security requirements?
There are 5 essential security requirements which can be recognised internationally. All using hats and jockey skulls ought to conform to one in every of these requirements and bear the CE mark. When figuring out helmet security, every of the person requirements have their very own standards and assessments that place completely different emphasis on numerous sorts of harm. For instance, they’ll study how a lot of the top a helmet covers, how a rider falls and onto what sort of floor, how a helmet strikes, and the way extreme an harm riders can anticipate to obtain from that fall, however all in a barely completely different means and to completely different extents.
- VG1 01.040 (2014-12) – This was launched as an interim specification when the EN 1384 was withdrawn. It calls for the helmet passes three influence assessments.
- PAS 015 (1998 or 2011) – PAS stands for product approval specs, that are developed by the BSI. The 2011 commonplace is extra demanding than the 1998, which can in all probability be phased out of self-discipline guidelines within the subsequent couple of years. It consists of 4 completely different influence assessments.
- ASTM F1163 (2004a or 04a onwards) – This American commonplace is just like PAS 015:1998 – it consists of two influence assessments, however doesn’t have a crushing or penetration check.
- SNELL E2016 – This commonplace was developed within the US and is probably the most rigorous with 5 completely different assessments. It consists of all facets of ASTM and PAS 015 however is examined with a sharper horseshoe anvil (to copy a kick or influence with a pointy floor), greater impacts and an extra hemispherical anvil (to symbolize an uneven however not sharp floor, similar to a tree, fence or cobbled floor).
- AS/NZS 3838 (2006 onwards) – This Australasian commonplace is just like the EN 1384, though additionally consists of the hazard anvil check from the PAS 015.
What’s the distinction between hat requirements and high quality marks?
High quality marks, such because the British Kitemark, present that the necessities of certification have been met and the producer has complied with laws. In case your hat additionally bears one in every of these marks it tells that the producer is constantly and independently monitored to make sure that they proceed to make hats to a excessive commonplace. High quality symbols embody…
- Kitemark – That is the registered trademark of the British Requirements Institute. It signifies that an organization complies with a rigorous system of regulation and testing, together with common testing of random samples. For instance, one in every of each 200 helmets from a batch is checked earlier than they’ll subject an approval label. If the helmets don’t go the usual, then your entire batch have to be destroyed. It may be utilized to PAS 015 and VG1-compliant helmets.
- IC mark – This high quality mark is operated by Inspec and utilized to PAS 015 and VG1-compliant helmets.
- SEI mark – The Security Tools Institute is the American equal of the Kitemark for ASTM commonplace hats.
- SAI International – This Australian high quality assurance scheme can be just like the British Kitemark.
The CE mark is neither a high quality mark or a regular, however a compulsory declaration beneath EU regulation that exhibits a producer complies with important necessities.
How ought to a using hat match?
At Horse & Hound we strongly advise that you simply get your hat fitted by a BETA-trained skilled earlier than making a purchase order. Discover out in case your native tack store can present this service right here.
A well-fitting hat ought to sit firmly in your head – simply above your eyebrows and ears. It ought to match snuggly all the best way round your head, with no strain factors on the temples. For those who really feel strain in your temples whenever you flex your jaw, this means that the helmet is simply too tight. When fastening your helmet, it’s necessary to not overlook the a part of the harness that matches across the again of your neck. This strap helps to stop your hat tipping forwards on to your nostril. Some harnesses, notably these with numerous leather-based and lacing, are tougher to lock, however a educated fitter at your native tack store will likely be in a position that will help you if you happen to take your hat in.
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Credit score: Alamy
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