Riding Helmets vs. Bike Helmets

Have you ever had a new rider ask if they can wear a bike helmet? I have, and I really like this simple explanation from Julie Goodnight about why equestrians needs to wear riding helmets, not bike helmets.

To watch her video explanation, click here for the video on Facebook. Or read on!

She explains that, “Cycling and Equestrian standards are very different. Bicycle helmets are similar to Horseback Riding safety helmets in appearance, but are not subject to the design specifications and standards that a riding helmet must pass in order to provide adequate protection. Bicycle helmets are designed to sustain impact from the height of a fall from a bike (5 feet), not from the height of a fall from a horse (9-10 feet). An equestrian helmet offers additional protection to the back of the head and also provides protection to specific areas of the head. Bike helmets are designed to protect the top of the head since most falls from bicycles are forward. Equestrian helmets are tested by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) for Chinstrap retention, penetration by a sharp object, and for impact absorption. These tests are specifically for horseback riding related accidents.”

So the next time someone asks, you have a nice answer 🙂

Source: https://www.facebook.com/horsemaster.tv/videos/10153057489587181/

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Note: This is not professional advice, this is a blog. I am not liable for what you do with or how you use this information. The activities explained in this blog may not be fit for every rider, riding instructor, or riding center depending on their current condition and resources. Use your best personal judgment!

2 thoughts on “Riding Helmets vs. Bike Helmets

    • Good question. I have not yet heard of a helmet for both bike and horse riding. Helmets are made specifically for the types, speed, and location of falls and injuries for the particular sport, so I imagine they are different enough between biking and riding that it might be hard to do. But I don’t know!

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