Horse Sense Why Wear a Riding Helmet

By Aimee Elyse Robinson, Valley Vet Supply Director of Editorial and Brand Voice

Historically, riding helmets were predominantly seen only in English disciplines. However, they are becoming more common in the Western world, from trails to barrel racing.

Did you know that equestrian-related injuries account for 70,000 emergency room visits yearly, with 12,000 head injuries?

Another startling statistic: Falling from only 2 feet high can cause permanent brain damage, according to Troxel Helmets’ website.

An Ohio-based equestrian shared with Valley Vet Supply why she buckles on her helmet before every ride.

“ One day, we were riding around the outdoor arena, and out of nowhere, my horse Luna tripped and then tripped a second time,” Sonja Arnold, equestrian, said.“ I prepared myself mentally for the inevitable fall that was coming. As I felt her body fall out from underneath me, I hit the ground face down and the next thing I knew, she was rolling over top of me. I will never be able to forget the sound of my helmet crunching as she continued to roll over me and then away from me.”

“ I am so lucky that both Luna and I walked away from our worst crash, which was unscathed. In those heart-stopping moments, as she tripped, fell and my helmet crunched under her body weight, I realized just how appreciative I was of all the trainers and people along my way who preached to me that I must always wear a helmet,” Arnold said.

32 AcreageLife October 2024 AcreageLife. com