The construction of riding hats, or more particularly riding helmets, has changed a lot in recent years. New materials and new emphasis on shock absorbing liners has changed English gear from mainly conforming to fashion to seriously protective.
Although this idea of safety has not become popular with western riders, English riders have accepted that riding bareheaded is considered irresponsible. The black velvet hunt cap, with its lack of chin strap and ribbons that have only symbolic meaning, has been acknowledged as ineffectual. They have a hard shell but the satin lining and minimal padding is more for comfort and decoration than protection. Without a chin harness, this sort of headgear often fell off during a fall. It was more of an illusion of protection than actual performance.
For many generations, straps under the chin that held on the riding helmet were worn only by children. Adults tried to have a tight fitting hat that would not come off if the head was held downwards, hoping that having it tight to the point of discomfort would keep it on. Some more formal gear, top hats and derbies, were attached by cords to the coat collar because it was assumed they would come off during a fast, cross-country run.
In addition, chin harnesses began to be emphasized. No hat can protect someone if it falls off before or during a fall. A hat without a protective liner and a chin harness can still be bought, but the manufacturer often includes a disclaimer that no guarantee of protection is made. They are sold only as a hat, not as a safety helmet.
For many competitions, hats must be certified by organizations whose standards are accepted by show associations. In the United States, hat design must have passed inspection by the ASTM, or American Society for Testing and Materials. For international competitions, helmets can be certified by the ASTM, the EN (European standard), PAS (British), or other acknowledged testing agency.
The earliest of this new type of riding helmet was very bulky and looked odd to those accustomed to the closer-fitting hunt cap. However, as the technology matures, helmets are becoming less top-heavy and the harnesses less obtrusive while no less effective. There are even designer show helmets that are certified as well as becoming. Although the western shows have yet to make this kind of safety helmet mandatory, they now accept them for wear even in recognized shows.
Today many state and national laws require the use of safety headgear by underage riders, and most insurance policies for public stables and instructors are written with this requirement as well. Many shows that require certified hats for jumping contests also mandate that all junior riders wear them when mounted on the show grounds. Adults can make up their own minds when riding on private land, but it is becoming unusual to see bareheaded riders.
Being made with safety first has finally resulted in riding hats that truly do help a lot in the case of a fall. These helmets should be renewed every few years, as materials may decompose over time and become brittle. Any fall will also necessitate a new hat, even when the old may appear undamaged.
For safety and style, riding hats are the perfect accessory during horseback rides. You can find a broad selection of horse riding hats to fit all styles of riding and ages.
