Peaked Riding Hats – Style, Safety and Everyday Elegance

A peaked riding hat is a timeless choice for riders who value both style and functionality. Designed with a fixed peak at the front, these helmets provide an elegant silhouette while helping to shield your face and eyes from sun glare – a practical benefit whether you're riding in the school, hacking out, or competing.

Popular across many disciplines, peaked helmets are especially favoured in dressage, show jumping, hunting, and showing. They offer a smart, polished look that meets the traditional standards of turnout, while also being available in a wide range of finishes to suit every taste and budget.

Why Choose a Peaked Riding Hat?

The structured peak is more than just a style feature. On sunny days, it offers shade and improves visibility by reducing direct glare. It’s also a rider favourite for formal events and non-cross-country disciplines, where presentation and tradition often play a key role.

For riders who prefer a more modern look, many peaked riding hats now come with advanced shell materials and integrated ventilation systems – giving you a sleek, sporty appearance without compromising safety or comfort.

If you’re also in need of a secure way to transport or store your helmet, browse our full range of riding hat bags to keep your kit clean and protected.

Versatile Styles for Every Rider

Whether you're after something classic or contemporary, there's a peaked riding hat to match your style:

• Velvet peaked riding hats remain a popular choice for showing and traditional disciplines. With their soft, luxurious finish and heritage appeal, they’re ideal for smart occasions and in-hand classes.

• For a more streamlined or professional look, leather-look and matte shell helmets offer a sleek, low-maintenance alternative.

• Modern wide peak riding hats provide extended facial coverage, offering enhanced protection from sun and rain, particularly useful for long schooling sessions or summer rides.

Many designs also feature padded harnesses, moisture-wicking linings and adjustable ventilation for year-round comfort.

Important Safety Information

While peaked hats are safe and fully certified for everyday use and most equestrian disciplines, it's important to note that peaked riding hats are not permitted for cross-country in affiliated competition, Pony Club or Riding Club events. This is due to the increased risk that a fixed peak could cause injury during a fall.

If you're planning to ride cross-country, opt for a certified skull cap riding helmet. These hats are peak-free, designed specifically for high-risk disciplines, and meet all current UK and European safety standards.

Choosing the Right Peaked Helmet

When selecting your peaked riding hat, make sure it meets one of the recognised safety standards (such as PAS015 or EN1384:2023) and is professionally fitted. A well-fitted helmet is essential for both protection and rider comfort.

Not sure which style suits your needs? Consider:

• Velvet riding hats for traditional turnout and showing.

• Wide peak helmets for added sun protection during schooling or hacking.

• Smart peaked helmets for dressage offer a clean, elegant profile with subtle finishes that meet the traditional turnout standards of the discipline.

Ride with Confidence

Whether you're perfecting your dressage test, enjoying a countryside hack, or heading into the show ring, a peaked riding hat offers a smart, safe and comfortable choice. With a variety of styles, finishes and safety features available, it's easy to find the perfect match for your needs.

Explore our full collection of peaked helmets – from velvet riding hats for the show ring to wide peak riding hats for everyday schooling.