Helmets?

[JFalexis]

Hi all,

I am searching for a new helmet to show in this year and for clinics. The helmet I have now is slowly disintegrating and I know that one fall in it would not be a good sight. I am planning on buying one ASAP. I am riding in a Tipperary that looks like a bucket and while it was suitable when I wasn’t showing often, it now does not serve my purpose, as I would look silly showing in it.

I show equitation and hunters right now, and will not be venturing into the jumper ring. I like the look of Samshield helmets, but not the price, and I have noticed them more likely to be on Jumpers than on Hunters/EQ riders, while I notice Charles Owen to be a common EQ and Hunter brand.

So, my question is: is there some sort of unspoken rule or guide that Hunters/EQ riders are supposed to have a certain type or style of helmet while Jumpers are supposed to have another? I want to keep my look conservative since I am an EQ rider, and classic and conservative are more appreciated in the ring than modern styles. What style of helmet (or brand) would be a good choice for me? What is most popular in the hunter and EQ rings at A or AA rated shows? Could anyone suggest any specific helmets that would cost less than or around $300 and still be ASTM Certified, safe, and comfortable while looking good enough to show in?

Thanks, I know that is a long post about helmets, sorry. Thank you to all who answer.

[JFalexis]

Forgot to post this, but I was also looking at IRH Elite EQ helmets, what is the general thought on this helmet?

[Kalele]

Jumpers can have bling which is the general difference, but I see crossover of all brands in the three rings. A good option to look at are the One K helmets. They’re in your price range and look much higher end.

[Dewey]

The IRH helmet you’re considering would be perfectly fine and appropriate in the HJ rings.

[eclipse]

Long as it fits and isn’t blingy you’ll be fine! I show at large A andAA shows in an Ovation schooling (only one that fits my pathetic small round head the best) and have never been laughed out of the ring… It fits well, is certified and best of all not a lot of $$

[JFalexis]

In the Equitation ring, are matte or are suede/fuzzy helmets more acceptable/common? I think I have found the helmet I want but am not sure which to get, as it comes in both options. I will be going with black of course.

[Kalele]

I don’t think either are more acceptable/common than the other. You’ll see plenty of people in Charles Owens and just as many in Samshield shadowmats.

[Pancakes]

Pick whichever fits the best and is the most comfortable. All are acceptable in the eq/hunter rings. Just don’t pick one that’s too shiny or sparkly. When you’re in the ring, the last thing you want to worry about or you want others to look at is your helmet – the focus should be on your ride and your horse. So, pick the helmet that you think will let you do that.

[spencergbennett]

Have lots of helmets (I collect them like purses, apparently) and my biggest recommendation is to get one with VENTS. I have a charles owen GR8 which is beautiful, but SO HOT. Most of the newer models are vented.