Over the past year, we’ve seen helmet technology advance tremendously. Modern helmets are affordable, aesthetically pleasing, and significantly reduce the chances of concussions and brain damage. Our team has factored in price, safety, comfort, looks, and more to bring you the best horse riding helmets of the year.
Helmets Reviewed (Contents)
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced horseback rider looking for an upgrade, wearing a high-quality helmet is essential. Some riders don’t like how their helmet looks, and let vanity get the best of them.
Luckily, we’ve found a few low-profile and elegant products that don’t sacrifice safety. As technology has advanced, prices have become more affordable, meaning there are affordable maximum protection options.
Our comprehensive guide to the best horseback riding helmets has recommendations for every type of equestrian.
1. Tipperary Sportage Low Profile Riding Helmet
4.9 Stars, 21 Rider Reviews
The Tipperary Sportage Low Profile Riding Helmet is an excellent product with a mid-range price. It offers a great fit without any tight spots and is a well-rounded equestrian helmet.
Riders love that it stays firmly in place even while working hard or doing aggressive maneuvers. There’s a ton of extra padding on the interior that allows you to customize the fit and secure it to your head.
Helmet Details
We also love Tipperary’s styling. It looks especially great in person with an aggressive cut-away profile and carbon fiber print. Well-placed top and rear vents give the rider significant cooling and temperature control.
Overall, this is a helmet that won’t break the bank and looks like it should cost two to three times as much. We are thoroughly impressed, to say the least.
2. Troxel Spirit Horseback Riding Helmet
4.8 Stars | 21 Rider Reviews
The Troxel Spirit Horseback Riding Helmet is an affordable helmet with a low-profile stance and a full-coverage design. It’s sold in seventeen color and pattern options and has multiple premium qualities. 20% of the helmet is constructed from mesh for a lightweight feeling.
Helmet Details
Inside the Troxel Spirit, there’s a headliner that’s both removable and washable. This liner helps keep the helmet clean and odor-free. The liner has built-in Air-Channel technology keeping the rider cool and is highly adjustable.
You can change the size by merely folding tabs in and out. Making the padding thicker and thinner allows you to customize the fit to your head’s shape and different hairstyles.
Troxel makes sure their helmets are as safe as possible by getting them certified by the ASTM and SEI. It’s always good when a company keeps its riders’ safety a top priority.
This helmet also has a flexible visor that won’t shatter into sharp pieces if you fall. Wearing a poorly-made helmet is a bad idea because it opens the possibility of severe injury if the visor shatters.
3. Ovation Equestrian Deluxe Schooler Helmet
4.8 Stars | 790 Rider Reviews
Amazon’s number one best-selling equestrian helmet is the Ovation Equestrian Deluxe Schooler Helmet. It’s received more than fifteen-hundred ratings and boasts recognition as one of the best all-around horse riding helmets.
Ovation knows that a great helmet isn’t just safe. Everyone wants a low-profile, professional-looking design that’s also comfortable to wear. We agree with the equestrian community that Ovation does a good job balancing these qualities.
Helmet Details
There are a total of eight fashion colors and metallic or matte finish options for the Deluxe Schooler. It’s well vented with a heavy focus on performance as well. Whether you’re riding the show ring or schooling, this helmet has you covered.
Ovation doesn’t use a flexible visor like Troxel, but they’ve found another solution. The Deluxe Schooler has a breakaway visor designed to fall off rather than shatter in the event of a crash.
It’s great to see helmet technology improving over the years as riders provide design suggestions like this.
4. TuffRider Starter Horse Riding Safety Helmet
4.7 Stars | 113 Rider Reviews
The TuffRider Starter Horse Riding Safety Helmet is a stylish beginner equestrian helmet. It has a sleek, elegant design that suits everyone, from kids to adults.
The design accommodates riders that wear ponytails, and you can fine-tune the adjustment dial for a custom fit. Black is the only color, but most riders wouldn’t want anything else.
Helmet Details
A big part of keeping yourself or your child safe is making sure their helmet fits properly. TuffRider’s sizing chart is very accurate, so if you follow the measurement instructions correctly, it’s sure to fit perfectly.
We’ve heard from riding instructors that they approve of this helmet’s quality and think highly of the protective shell. A black EPS liner combined with an ABS outer shell keeps the rider as safe as possible.
Vent slots covered with stainless steel mesh and a Coolmax Washable Lining keep it sanitary. It’s not a professional-grade product, but it’s an excellent option for people of all ages learning to ride horses.
5. Ovation Equestrian Protege Riding Helmet
4.3 Stars | 15 Rider Reviews
Ovation is known for its production of high-quality equestrian products at exceptional prices. They have a whole line of different styles and qualities. There’s a model suited to each rider’s needs.
For kids and newcomers to the sport, the Ovation Equestrian Protege Riding Helmet is an excellent option If you want to stay protected without making a large investment in horseback riding gear, there are plenty of options.
Helmet Details
Your riding helmet must have mesh material covering the vents. You don’t want bugs or other debris hitting you in the head during your ride. This helmet has this feature, and it’s added without sacrificing any ventilation or airflow.
The Protege Riding Helmet’s best quality is the adjustable fit. There’s a dial in the rear that keeps your head securely in place. It also has an extended shell, giving riders extra protection for the back of their head.
It’s always best to get a helmet with this design because this area of your head is most prone to concussions.
6. One K Unisex Defender Suede Riding Helmet
4.9 Stars | 14 Rider Reviews
The best high-end, professional-level helmet is One K’s Unisex Defender Suede Riding Helmet. Its design is gorgeous and aesthetically pleasing. The technology used in this unit is far more advanced and built for performance.
Helmet Details
Many professional riders wear the One K. You’ll see it used in English disciplines, including eventing, equitation, jumping, dressage, and even hunting.
Luxurious Chamude synthetic suede covers the helmet’s advanced ABS composite shell. Stainless steel mesh covers vents, and a quick-drying, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial padding lines the interior.
Comfort features don’t end there. A padded harness with synthetic suede lining is incorporated, giving it a well-rounded soft feeling. Two unique sizes are offered. The Regular/Round model is for rounder heads, and the Long Oval model is suited for longer heads.
See the One K product description on Amazon for measurement instructions.
7. Troxel Sierra Helmet
4.7 Stars | 272 Rider Reviews
Troxel is undoubtedly the most trusted equestrian brand by professionals and riding instructors. They firmly believe that equestrians are athletes and deserve performance gear that doesn’t sacrifice safety.
The Troxel Sierra Helmet is a popular model with an impressive safety record. Its self-locking buckle and Pro-Fit system are highly regarded by the SEI and ASTM certification organizations.
Helmet Details
The Sierra model is offered in four pattern options. Materials of nylon and leather complete the design, giving it an elegant look. It’s low-profile, good-looking, and looks like it should cost a lot more than it does.
It’s easy to change the size with the Flip-Fold Fit Adjustment. This system not only makes it comfortable but adds an element of safety as well.
An air-channel headliner gives the rider a cool breeze and makes this an excellent option for long days in the arena or out on the trail.
8. Troxel Liberty Horseback Riding Helmet
4.7 Stars | 1,478 Rider Reviews
If you’re looking for a Troxel helmet’s quality and safety but need a more affordable option, the Troxel Liberty Horseback Riding Helmet is an outstanding choice. For the price, we can’t think of a helmet that has more to offer.
This model has the same low-profile elegant design but comes in eight different patterns and colors. It doesn’t have the nylon and leather wrap featured on the Sierra, but this allows it to be very lightweight.
Helmet Details
Often inexpensive or lightweight helmets sacrifice durability. Troxel did an excellent job balancing the strength and weight by modifying the traditional helmet structure.
We also like the ventilation design of the Liberty model. The six mesh-covered vents are strategically placed for increased ventilation but also give an aggressive, competitive stance.
Since you’re getting the same Flip-Fold headliner and Air-Channel technology as the Sierra, it’s a decent value for the money. While some riders may prefer the Sierra, this one is a superb and affordable option for technical riders.
9. Equi-Lite Kids Horse Riding Helmet
4.6 Stars | 395 Rider Reviews
All of the helmets we’ve suggested can fit younger riders. However, suppose you’re looking for a product specifically designed to fit children. In that case, the Equi-Lite Kids Horse Riding Helmet is your best bet.
This model has all the premium features a beginner rider needs but won’t break the bank like other high-end adult models.
Helmet Details
This helmet has a 3-point harness that makes it easy to secure and remove from your child’s head. It stays securely in place and eliminates the annoying and dangerous shifting that cheaper helmets bring.
Your child will remain relaxed and comfortable from the nine ventilation ports built into the shell. A soft padded liner immediately forms to the rider’s head. The shape accommodates ponytails and a variety of hairstyles.
It’s even more critical that novice riders are well-protected. We are confident in the safety features as it’s passed all federal and European safety standards. The Equi-Lite was designed for all disciplines, from schooling and competition to trail riding.
Overall it’s practical, safe, stylish, and extremely comfortable. We believe youth riders should enjoy wearing their helmets to develop good habits and enjoy their introduction to the sport.
10. Troxel Dakota Horseback Riding Helmet
4.8 Stars | 910 Rider Reviews
Troxel’s Dakota Helmet Model is the lightest and coolest helmet on the market. The first thing you’ll notice is the unique design that comes from the extended sun visor.
It’s designed specifically for trail riding, where equestrians benefit from extra sun protection. Excellent ventilation comes from the forward-facing vents shaped similarly to the ones on the Liberty helmet.
Helmet Details
We’ve commonly heard that the lightweight construction of the Dakota makes it easy to forget you’re even wearing a helmet. It has a low-profile design keeping you from having the dreaded “bobblehead” look.
A unique feature of the Dakota is the concho detailing and leather hatband. We like these qualities as it makes for a great middle-ground between the performance-forward Liberty model and the beautiful Sierra style.
11. IRH Equi-Pro Helmet
4.6 Stars | 113 Rider Reviews
If you’re looking for a sleek, competitive design with ample airflow, the IRH Equi-Pro Helmet meets your criteria. There are six color and pattern options for the Equi-Pro. Many satisfied customers have raved about how comfortable this helmet feels. We’ll discuss the advanced features that make it so enjoyable to wear.
Helmet Details
On the inside, a high-tech fast-drying liner pulls away sweat and moisture. Equi-Pro’s vent design uses complex geometry to circulate air efficiently.
Most helmets only use vents for cooling, which is the main reason why this one stands out. It’s efficient at sucking in cool, clean air and venting out warm, damp air at the rear.
While cooling technology is the best feature of the IRH Equi-Pro, it doesn’t sacrifice other qualities. This helmet is lightweight, and adjustable using a dial in the back. The lining is also removable for easy cleaning.
12. IRH 4G Interchangeable Helmet
4.6 Stars | 51 Rider Reviews
As this product’s name suggests, the IRH 4G Interchangeable Helmet excels in customization. When purchased, the helmet comes with two snap-in liners of different thicknesses. Everybody has a uniquely shaped head, and IRH looked to address this problem.
Helmet Details
These aren’t any ordinary liners either. Constructed using advanced dast drying cool-on fabric with moisture-wicking capabilities, they’re premium components. You can remove them for cleaning, and it’s a bonus that the liners are machine washable.
We also love the fashion choices incorporated into the design. The sleek lines and matte finish are a great touch.
You can choose between black or navy suede for the finish and seven different colors and patterns. Three vents in the shape of an arrow are positioned near the top and punctuate the aggressive look.
It is vital to refer to the brand’s sizing chart for the best fit. Measure your head as accurately as possible using the information in the product description that’s linked above.
13. Unistrength Equestrian Hat Helmet
4.7 Stars | 210 Rider Reviews
Customers on Amazon have given the Unistrength Equestrian Hat Helmet perfect ratings. It’s affordable, durable, and the best-priced horse riding helmet designed around fashionable looks. You won’t find a better helmet with a velvet-covered shell for the money.
Helmet Details
The lining features thickened velveteen, which gives the rider practical benefits. Aside from being gorgeous, the thick coating helps keep the rider warm. It does this without adding a ton of weight from interior padding.
We also love the high arch above the ear. Some helmets can be tight or uncomfortable around the rider’s ears. This one features the same amount of protection but makes it easier to hear and more enjoyable to wear.
A high-strength outer shell provides security, and an adjustable chin mat and buckle secure the fit. Overall, the Unistrength Equestrian Hat is a beautiful horseback riding helmet that keeps riders safe.
14. Troxel Rebel Horseback Riding Helmet
4.8 Stars | 1,194 Rider Reviews
Given the number of reviews, the Troxel Rebel Horseback Riding Helmet is the highest-rated horseback riding helmet on the market. It has a reasonable, mid-range price and is suitable for all ages and experience levels.
Troxel calls this model a “statement maker with bold graphics and full ventilation.” It’s certainly light enough for performance riders and appeals to the trendsetters among us.
Helmet Details
There are seven designs and patterns offered for the Rebel. This customization makes it easy to match the helmet to your current riding apparel or horse’s gear. It has one of the most precise fit adjustment systems ever made, correctly wrapping around the rider’s head.
These are all reasons why it’s become a favorite in the riding community.
The Troxel Rebel certainly doesn’t sacrifice protection for the other top-notch features. A sturdy shell and soft inner coating work together to reduce the chance of concussions or injury after a fall.
You get all of this in a package that doesn’t make you look like a bobblehead. We’ve heard many riders say that the Troxel Rebel is so non-intrusive, that they’ve forgotten it was still on their head.
15. Ovation Competitor Helmet
For equestrians looking to take their talents to the next level, choosing the Ovation Competitor Helmet is a safe and affordable way to do it. We noticed that it’s flattering to your face, and the fit adjustment is top-notch.
Helmet Details
Ovation noticed that many competitive riders, especially jumpers, were stuffing their helmets with padding. Not only does this add weight and make equestrians look goofy, but it also reduces performance. These materials frequently slip down over riders’ eyes and block their vision at the most crucial moments.
The Ovation Competitor fits like a glove and stays locked in place through the most jarring gallops and maneuvers.
The adjuster clip and buckle are positioned very well. It has a texture flocked shell lined in velvet and a rounded visor.
One critique is it would be better if Ovation offered this model in more colors than just blue. While it fits the design well, some riders prefer the simple look of black helmets more.
16. TuffRider Show Time Horse Riding Helmet
4.4 Stars | 52 Rider Reviews
The TuffRider Show Time Horse Riding Helmet is an underappreciated piece of equipment that’s received perfect ratings on Amazon.
There are a total of eleven size options for sale which all but guarantees a perfect fit. You can achieve the professional-grade fit of high-end helmets without having to shell out a ton of money. We agree with many equestrians that it’s a show-quality helmet for the best price on the market.
Helmet Details
There’s something to be said about a simple look. It’s a timeless aesthetic that appeals to both modern and traditional style riders. The black color has a matte finish with a thin vent that arches across the top.
Quality materials and performance features are incorporated. TuffRider is one of the most well-respected equestrian helmet brands, along with Troxel. For more specific, detailed information, check out the product description using the button above.
17. Xiaozxwlhq Kids Equestrian Helmet
4.5 Stars | 402 Rider Reviews
At Best Helmets Guide, we’re firm believers that everybody should get the same opportunity to keep their heads protected. Just because you have a lower budget doesn’t mean you should skimp on safety.
The Xiazxwlhq Kids Equestrian Helmet is the most protective and affordable helmet option for children.
Helmet Details
This product is suited for junior riders aged between two and six years old. It comes in both black and pink colors that both boys and girls will enjoy.
Safety is always the top priority, and this helmet exceeds our protection criteria. It has a rigid PVC outer shell and is certified by the SEI.
Young kids don’t need the performance features of expensive Troxel or ovation helmets. Something safe, comfortable, and fashionable is all they need.
This equestrian helmet is fully padded on the inside, ventilated, and adjustable with an easy-to-use chin strap. If you’re on a tight budget, there’s a no better option.