Discussing Sporting Goods

Spending time on the back of a horse can be both emotionally and physically therapeutic. In order to ensure that you are protected while enjoying equestrian activities, you need access to the right equipment. One vital piece of equipment that you should purchase prior to your first ride is a helmet that will protect against head injuries in the event of a fall.

Here are three tips that you can use while shopping for a riding helmet to ensure you end up with one that will be suited to meet your needs.

1. Consider your desired riding discipline.

Before you can purchase a suitable riding helmet, you must take into account the type of riding that you intend to do. There are many activities that you can engage in on the back of a horse, and each activity requires a different type of protection.

If you are planning on riding for pleasure alone, then any helmet will do. If you intend to learn how to jump so you can participate in eventing shows, then you will need a helmet without a visor that could obscure your vision. Identifying your desired riding discipline will help you narrow your options to the helmets best suited to meet the unique needs of that discipline.

2. Consider your style needs.

Many riding disciplines come with their own dress code. Expressing your sense of style by matching your helmet to your riding outfit can be beneficial when it comes to looking your best while you are on horseback.

In order to ensure that the helmet you purchase is versatile enough to accommodate your changing wardrobe needs, you should pick a helmet that is a lighter color. This allows you to use helmet covers to change the appearance of your helmet without the base color interfering.

3. Consider safety standards.

A quality helmet will cost you a bit of money, and for good reason. Before you make the choice to invest in a bargain-priced helmet, take the time to check the safety ratings for the helmet in question.

A quality helmet will carry an endorsement from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The ASTM sets minimum safety standards that must be met for a riding helmet to carry their endorsement, so you can rest assured knowing an ASTM-approved helmet will provide maximum protection. It's worth spending a bit more for this safety endorsement.

Purchasing your first riding helmet can be challenging, but if you remember to take your desired discipline, dress style, and safety standards into consideration you will be able to invest in a helmet that will meet your unique riding needs.

For more information about riding helmets contact EQU Lifestyle Boutique.