Equestrian Wear for Your Head

By: Travis Moore



Proper equestrian wear is a must for serious equestrians. Clothing worn by equestrians is not just for show. They have another purpose. Equestrian wear enables horse riders to move freely during shows and competitions. Different kinds of clothing are required for the equestrian sport. Equestrian wear covers everything from head gear to footwear.

Riding Hats as Part of Equestrian Wear

Equestrian wear consists of jackets, jodhpurs, breeches, riding hats, body protectors, gaiters, chaps and riding boots. For newbie riders, it is important that they are familiar with each piece of clothing. While individual preferences are seldom the same, knowing the basics is still necessary before making actual equestrian wear purchases. Horse back riding does not exactly come cheap, and the attire is no exception.

Riding hats are considered the most important of equestrian wear. They protect riders from falls that may be experienced whether in or out of competitions. Sure, horses can be trained, but they still have an unpredictable side.

The riding hat provides protection for the head. Such hats are made of hard shell lined with shock-absorbent material. Riding hats must be worn even when riders aren't atop their horses to protect against sudden kicks. It is strongly advised that hats be worn while handling steeds on the ground.

If riders suffer a fall, the hats used should be replaced straightaway. Falls diminish the protection offered by hats. Riding hats' padding compresses from repeated use so this also decreases its level of protection. As a rule, replacing riding hats should be done every three to four years.

There are three basic hats available for horse riders. Each is described briefly below.

* Classic riding hats – These are traditional velvet hats that come in black, navy and brown shades and have a hard peak.

* Skull caps or jockey caps – These have no peaks. Typically worn by jockeys, they are now quite popular among other competition and leisure riders. Silk peak covers can be placed atop the skull caps, giving them the appearance of riding hats. Novelty silks are likewise available for kids, with the ears and eyes sewn on them.

* Skull protectors – These are riding hats similar to cycling helmets. Ventilated and very lightweight, they are usually worn during summer when the weather is warm.

Buy riding hats from stores with trained fitters. These people can help ensure riders purchase the best hats for their heads, the ones that fit correctly. Measurements needed before stepping into a fitter's office are head circumference numbers (measured above the ears). These will correspond to the size of the hat. Riding hats should sit on one's head and stay secure but also comfortable. Avoid buying too-tight hats. They need to be comfy.

Like most equestrian wear, there are also safety standards that riding hats must satisfy. Three safety standards are set in the United Kingdom. A riding hat needs to follow one of the standards to ensure optimum rider safety. For one thing, they should have chin straps. The chin straps should secure hats safely as well as securely on riders' heads.

Proper equestrian wear won't do much if they are not correctly fastened. Riders should secure their hats. For beginners, buy what is comfortable, but not to the point that safety gets thrown out the window. Riding hats are critical pieces of equestrian wear. Severe falls sometimes prove fatal. A riding hat is capable of cushioning the impact and decreasing the severity of injuries to riders.

Never buy secondhand or used riding hats. The same goes for riding boots and other equestrian clothing. While the hat damages might not be easily visible on the outside, there's a big chance these can no longer provide full rider protection. For guaranteed horse riding protection, stick with new hats. This goes for other equestrian wear.

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