Introduction
Endurance riding, a form of horseback riding that is more exposed to the elements and possible hazards, requires additional protection. A riding helmet is an essential piece of equipment for endurance riders. A riding helmet protects the rider’s head against impact and reduces the chance of serious injury in case of a fall. There are many important things to take into consideration when choosing a riding helmet. This article will give you an overview of the important factors to consider when purchasing a riding helmet for endurance riding.
Fit and Comfort
When buying a riding helmet, the most important consideration is comfort and fit. Bad fitting helmets can make it uncomfortable, and they can also reduce the protection provided in the event that the rider falls. To find the best fit, it is worth trying on several helmets. The helmet should fit snugly but not too tight. It should also not move when the rider moves their heads. You should also ensure that the helmet meets the most recent safety standards.
Visor and Ventilation
It is important to look at the ventilation and visor when choosing a riding helmet. To protect the eyes from the sun and debris, many riding helmets come with a visor. Visibility should be good and adjustable. The helmet’s ventilation is another important aspect. Ventilation is essential for a helmet to be comfortable and allow air to circulate.
Style and weight
There are many styles and weights of riding helmets. It is important to choose the right style and weight for the rider when choosing a riding helmet. For long rides, a lightweight helmet is more comfortable than a heavier helmet. However, it may provide more protection. You should also consider the style of your helmet. Some helmets have a modern, sleek look while others have a more traditional style.
Safety Standards
It is crucial to ensure that the helmet meets the most recent safety standards when buying a riding helmet. A certification issued by an organization like the American Society for Testing and Materials or the Snell Memorial Foundation should be attached to helmets. These organizations inspect helmets to ensure they comply with safety standards.
Price
When buying a riding helmet to ride endurance, price is an important consideration. Prices for riding helmets range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Researching different helmets is crucial to find the right one for you.
Conclusion
It is important to evaluate fit, comfort, ventilation, weight, safety standards and price when buying a riding helmet. To find the best fit, riders should test out different helmets and ensure that the helmet meets the most recent safety standards. Also, it is important to evaluate the cost of the helmet and choose a helmet that suits the budget. Riders can choose the right riding helmet for their endurance rides by considering all these factors.
FAQ
What’s the difference between riding helmets and regular helmets?
Riding helmets were specifically designed for horseback riding. They provide additional protection against the elements and other hazards. Regular helmets such as those used for bicycle riding are not made for horseback riding, so they may not offer the same protection.
How often should my riding helmet be replaced?
Most helmets for riding should be replaced within 5 years. If they are damaged, sooner. It is important that you inspect your helmet every year and replace any damage.
Resources
Endurance riding (Wikipedia.org).
How to Buy a Riding Helmet For Endurance Riding? (YouTube.com)