How To Fit A Riding Helmet

For safety and comfort when riding and handling horses, it’s important to check your riding helmet fits correctly, securely and comfortably. 

The Karben riding helmet collection features styles with a secure 4-point harness and a rear adjustable dial system which help provide a snug, personalized fit. In this guide, we share some key tips on how to choose the correct riding helmet size. 

How To Measure For a Riding Helmet

To know which riding helmet size you need, start by measuring the circumference of your head with a measuring tape. 

The measuring tape should sit flat and level around the widest part of your head and be around ¾ inch above your eyebrows. 

When choosing your riding helmet, remember to check that the style and safety standards are suitable for the riding activities you do. 

How To Fit A Riding Helmet

To fit your riding helmet, start by putting the riding helmet on from the front of your head and roll it to the back of your head. The riding helmet should sit with a ½ - 1 inch gap above your eyebrows and there shouldn’t be any pressure points on your head or gaps around the rim.

You then need to fit the harness by ensuring that the fastening clips sit in line and secure correctly. At the chin, there should be a one finger gap between the strap and your chin. 

After this, you can adjust the dial located at the rear of the riding helmet by turning it clockwise until the riding helmet feels snug and secure. 

For a dial riding helmet, make sure the adjustable dial is on the loosest setting when you start the fitting. 

How To Check If A Riding Helmet Fits Correctly 

Once you’ve fitted your riding helmet, you can see if the riding helmet fits correctly by checking that the riding helmet is flush against your head with no gaps around the rim. 

When you move the riding helmet, it shouldn't lift off your head and shouldn't rock or roll to the back or side of your head.

You can place your hand on the front of the helmet and gently move it up and down. Your eyebrows should move with the helmet. If the helmet slides while your eyebrows stay still, it's likely too loose. A properly fitted helmet should sit snugly against your head, so it moves as one unit without shifting independently. 

If the riding helmet doesn’t fit correctly, you’ll need to try a different size or shape of riding helmet and may even need to try another style or brand.

Frequently Asked Riding Helmet Questions Answered

When To Replace A Riding Helmet

If you have fallen or have dropped your riding helmet, you should replace your riding helmet immediately. In some cases, your riding helmet may look fine to use again, however there will be damage that is not be visible to the eye so the riding helmet should be replaced. 

Which Riding Helmet Is Best For Me

The riding helmet that is best for you depends on the riding activities you are planning to do as some disciplines may require a particular style, safety standards, or color.

How To Clean A Riding Helmet

To keep your riding helmet clean after use, wipe it over with a soft damp cloth and then store it in a riding hat bag. Your riding helmet should be stored away from direct sunlight, and solvents should be avoided as these can perish or damage the material. 

To find out more about how to choose a riding helmet, take a look at BETA's guide to riding hats.