How to Measure for a Horse Riding Helmet

A helmet is an important piece of safety equipment for riding. This is true for all equestrians, whether you ride on rough trails or you do show jumping. However, a helmet won’t be able to adequately protect you if it doesn’t fit correctly. With the right measuring tips, you can get the correct fit to help keep you safe when you’re on horseback.

If you’re buying a helmet online, it’s important to avoid having a poorly fitted helmet by taking accurate measurements at home. Use the following steps and watch this video tutorial to make sure your equestrian helmet fits correctly.

Step 1: Measure the Circumference of Your Head

Use a flexible measuring tape to measure your head. It’s easiest to have someone else do this so they can make sure that the measuring tape is placed properly all the way around the head.

Get a circumference measurement with the tape sitting approximately one inch above the eyebrow line (or about 2.5 cm). Note the measurement in inches or in centimeters.

Tip: If you don’t have a flexible measuring tape, do the same thing with a string, keeping your finger on the string where it meets up with the other end when wrapped around the head. Simply place the string flat along a flat measuring tape or yardstick afterward to get the proper measurement.

Step 2: Look at the Sizing Chart

When you’ve selected the helmet you want online, look at the brand’s sizing chart. Make sure you’re looking at the appropriate size chart for the helmet type (adult or youth).

See where your measurement falls on the chart and select the appropriate size.

Step 3: Check the Overall Helmet Fit

Once the helmet arrives, try it on. The helmet should feel snug all the way around the head without pinching anywhere.

Remember to make sure the helmet is sitting about one inch about the eyebrow line. When the helmet is on, your eyebrows should actually move up and down if you shift the helmet back and forth on your head. If this happens, the fit is the right fit.

Step 4: Adjust the Fit Inside

Next, fine tune the fit according to your head shape. Check for any areas where you feel a gap in the fit.

You may need to adjust the padding inside the helmet lining to make sure there is a snug fit all the way around. Some helmets have a dial that can tighten or loosen the fit.

Step 5: Adjust the Straps

After adjusting the interior helmet fit, put the helmet back on. The straps on each side have a V-shape. The V should come to a point right below the ear, so adjust the straps if necessary to make sure it falls in the correct place on each side of the head.

Next, buckle the straps. The buckle should sit directly below the chin. You should be able to place two fingers between the straps when they are buckled. If you can fit more fingers, it’s too loose. If you can’t fit two fingers, it’s too tight. Adjust as necessary to get the right fit.

Follow these steps for how to measure for a horse riding helmet, and you should be able to find your perfect fit even when you order a helmet online.

Remember: The best helmet is the helmet that fits!