Helmets
Most riders sit well over six feet from the ground. Head injuries can be severe and permanent. Horse riding statistics indicate there are an estimated 12,000 head injuries suffered annually. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) in 1990 established a standard for horseback riding helmets. This standard is for a helmet to withstand 300 C's of pressure and have a locking latch. Most manufacturers make both approved and non-approved helmets. Be sure to check the helmet you are purchasing and make sure it is approved.
Helmets come in a variety of looks and sizes to accommodate all tastes and disciplines, although very few people look stylish with an equestrian helmet on. Helmets have a long history. Today's helmets still reflect the tradition of conservatism proliferated by early English horse riding headgear. All the same, the emphasis is on the wearer's safety as opposed to just style.
The outer shell of equestrian helmets is plastic that resists shock and helps prevent accidental injuries in the event of a fall. The helmet is designed to crumple during a fall. Padding is added for comfort and safety. If you do fall and your helmet absorbs serious impact you should replace it because there may be damage that is not visible.
There are many different types of helmets. Schooling helmets are used primarily for learning to ride. These are usually the least expensive. Show helmets modeled after the English hunt cap are used in hunter, jumper, and dressage riding. Equestrian helmets concentrate on total safeguarding. Today's helmets offer the horse rider more western designs. These styles have yet to be adopted by rodeo horse riders.
Most riding events will not allow you to compete without a helmet. These days, horseback riding instructors are required by insurance companies to make their students wear equestrian riding helmets. Helmets and covers come in many different colors because more and more people find the colors black, brown, and gray boring.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6942276
