Horse Sense Why Wear a Riding Helmet
Sonja Arnold and horse, Luna.
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Reader Service No. 2273
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Choosing a Riding Helmet
Riders can increase their safety by wearing an ASTM / SEI-approved helmet. ASTI is an acronym for the American Society for Testing and Materials, an organization consisting of dedicated doctors, engineers and physicists. SEI stands for Safety Equipment Institute, where helmets are tested in a lab setting to ensure they meet ASTM standards. To identify whether your helmet meets these safety standards, see if an ASTM / SEI seal is visible within the helmet.
The University of Connecticut Department of Animal Science produced the report“ Riding Helmet Safety.” It addresses helmet fitting and states,“ When you wiggle your helmet, it should move your eyebrows— this is one way to know that it fits tight enough. The helmet should stay comfortably on your head when harnessed without moving around on your head no matter what you ' re doing. Bend over at the waist and shake your head. A correctly fitted helmet will not move.”
You will be the best judge of whether a helmet is too small. If your helmet leaves a line on your forehead when you take it off or gives you a headache when worn, chances are it’ s too small and you need the next size. With your head size measurements, you can identify the appropriate riding hat size from a wide selection of helmets.
Fashion Meets Function
Whether you ride English or Western, finding a helmet that suits your style and budget is easy. There ' s something for everyone— from glamorous designs with bling to rugged leather looks. Helmets with wider brims shield your eyes from the sun, while vented options provide a refreshing breeze. For those who can ' t part with their cowboy hat, there’ s a cowboy hat brim accessory you can attach to your helmet to complete the look and provide sun protection.
With a wide range of riding helmets, you can ride with peace of mind, knowing you ' re protected against the unexpected. In the unpredictable world of horses, it ' s always best to be prepared.
About the Author:
Aimee draws from her lifelong experience with horses and tenure as a writer in the animal health industry. Visit www. ValleyVet. com to learn more and to procure your horse’ s needs.
34 AcreageLife October 2024 AcreageLife. com