For everyday horse owners and riders across the UK, a riding hat isn’t just part of the outfit – it’s a crucial piece of safety gear. Whether you're heading out for a countryside hack or training in the arena, the right helmet can make all the difference in comfort, protection, and confidence in the saddle.
Riding hats come in a wide range of styles to suit different disciplines, ages, and personal preferences. From traditional peaked designs to modern skull caps and child-friendly options, understanding the differences can help you choose the right helmet for your riding needs.
Classic Style: Peaked Riding Hats
Peaked riding hats are a popular choice for general riding, schooling, and dressage. The fixed brim helps shield your eyes from the sun and rain, improving visibility in varying weather conditions. Many modern designs also include ventilation systems and impact-absorbing liners for added comfort and safety during longer rides.
Performance-Focused: Skull Caps & Jockey Helmets
For those involved in more intensive disciplines like eventing or racing, skull caps and jockey-style riding helmets are a great choice. Designed without a peak, they reduce the risk of injury during a fall and are often mandatory for cross-country. They also pair brilliantly with hat silks and covers, giving you the option to customise your helmet’s appearance.
Flexible Fit: Adjustable Riding Hats
Adjustable riding hats are designed to offer a more customised and secure fit, which can help improve comfort and stability during movement. The dial-fit systems or adjustable liners are particularly useful for riders who want a snug, non-slip fit – especially during fast-paced activities or longer sessions in the saddle. The adjustability also allows riders to maintain a consistent fit when wearing different layers, such as winter hat liners or balaclavas, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the seasons.
Designed for Young Riders: Children’s Riding Hats
Safety is paramount when it comes to young equestrians. Our children’s riding hats range includes lightweight, secure, and fully certified helmets in fun styles kids will love. Children’s riding hats are developed to ensure a safe and comfortable fit for smaller, developing head shapes. Many models come in a wider range of smaller sizes and use adjustable fitting systems to help achieve the correct fit as children grow, making it easier to ensure the helmet stays properly positioned and secure during use.
Add Personality: Hat Silks & Covers
A great way to freshen up your look or coordinate your riding outfit is with hat silks and covers. Available in bold colours, patterns, and even glitter designs, they’re especially popular for skull cap wearers and young riders alike. They also help extend the life of your hat by protecting it from everyday wear and tear.
Travel-Ready: Riding Hat Bags
Your riding hat is a vital investment – protect it properly with one of our riding hat bags. Whether you're heading to a show or just keeping your tack room organised, a padded, zip-close bag helps prevent knocks, dust, and scuffs.
Trusted Brands: Charles Owen, Champion & Karben
Charles Owen riding hats are a staple for serious riders, combining cutting-edge safety with stylish finishes. From the sporty YR8 to the breathable AYR8 Plus, they’re engineered for all-day comfort and protection.
Champion riding hats are designed with a strong focus on safety, durability, and comfort. With a range of styles suited to different disciplines, they’re a trusted choice for riders looking for well-tested, British-made helmets.
For those who want to make a statement, Karben riding hats deliver modern design with fashionable features like metallic trims and ventilated panels – ideal for riders who love style without sacrificing safety.
Understanding Safety Standards
All riding hats sold in the UK must meet specific safety standards to ensure they offer effective protection in the event of a fall. Look for certifications such as PAS 015, VG1, or ASTM F1163, which indicate the hat has passed rigorous impact and stability tests. For a full breakdown of what these standards mean, read our guide to riding hat safety standards.
Choose a Helmet That Works for You
If you're unsure which riding hat is best for you, we're here to help. Our team can offer advice on sizing, fit, and suitable options based on your riding needs. If you're local to our warehouse, you can also book an in-person hat fitting appointment with one of our trained staff to ensure the perfect fit. Just get in touch and we’ll be happy to guide you.
Remember to check your helmet fit regularly, replace it after any fall, and consider updating every 3–5 years depending on use. With the right riding hat, you’ll not only stay protected – you’ll look and feel your best in the saddle.
