View Full Version : riding and helmets
lovethemountains
03-06-2008, 11:41 AM
OK I know this may be a silly question but I am older so here goes. . . I am new to riding horses. Should I wear a helmet when riding or is that only for those who are into other and tougher equestrian sports such as jumping? I know silly but I would love to have some feedback in this area.
imdreamin
03-07-2008, 09:38 AM
It is advisable, you never know when you may take a spill and land on your head. Its better to have it protected than get a concussion or worse.
Hi!
You should always wear a helmet especially if you are a beginner.
Make sure it is ASTM/SEI approved (basically means its of a certain quality and will protect you).
You should even wear one when you are with your horse (leading, grooming etc) as there are just as many injuries to riders on the ground around horses as to falling off. People forget that if a horse spooks and makes a break for it you can easily be trampled or end up with a kick to a head :(
stressmom
03-12-2008, 03:58 PM
That is kind of scary. Do most reputable riding schools advocate that all of their riders be equipped with a helmet? I have been to several horseback riding birthday parties and I can honestly say that I have never seen anyone there riding with a helmet or making the kids wear one either. Should I question this the next time we go to one?
frankie
03-14-2008, 09:56 PM
A riding school would not be a good riding school if you don't wear helmets. I can honestly say I have never been in the situation where I was given a choice of wearing a helmet or not...u have to wear one!
Kids birthday parties are a tricky one...I don't think there are any regulations there. If a child is on a pony then they should have a helmet on.
If a child falls off because the pony gets scared by something they are going to end up right underneath the pony and risk being trampled or a kick in the head or worse land on their head. It only takes a split second to happen....it happens all the time even to people who have been riding for years.
I took a fall last week, Frankie spooked at a cow...luckily I just bruised my backside :rolleyes: