Riding Hats & Helmets

A well-fitted riding hat is a core part of your kit. This selection covers everyday schooling, show styles and juniors, with options you can pair with colourful hat silks to make your look your own. If you’re comparing safety gear more broadly, see the Equestrian Safety Wear hub for the full edit.

Choosing the Right Riding Hat

Start with your discipline and how you ride most. Ventilated lids suit long schooling sessions and hacking; velvet styles are popular in showing (always check what’s permitted). Many eventers prefer a skull with a silk. Whatever you choose, prioritise a secure, stable fit and the safety standard(s) listed on each product page.

Hat type Best for Key features Fit notes
Ventilated peaked helmet Everyday hacking & schooling; many show classes (check rules) Integrated peak, multiple vents, removable/washable liner Should sit level and snug with even contact; harness adjusted comfortably
Jockey skull (worn with silk) Eventing, cross-country, training with a silk/cover Smooth, peak-less shell; compatible with hat silks As above; ensure no rocking with a stable harness fit
Velvet/show hat Traditional show ring turnout (breed/show classes) Classic velvet finish; minimal external vents Prioritise stable fit without pressure points; confirm head shape compatibility
Junior/children’s helmet Young riders; schooling, lessons, pony club Size ranges for smaller heads; adjustable harnesses; light weights Measure head circumference; re-check fit regularly as kids grow
Helmets with rotational-impact systems Riders who prefer added technologies Liner/shell systems designed to manage oblique impacts Fit still comes first—try on to confirm stability and comfort with the system


Fit & Sizing

Measure your head circumference and try on to confirm shape compatibility; different brands suit different head shapes. A good fit feels snug and even, without pressure points or rocking; the hat should sit level and secure with the harness comfortably adjusted. If you’re unsure, a trained fitter can help assess fit and stability.


Riding Hat Care & Replacement

Handle your hat with care, avoid drops/impacts, and store away from heat. Replace any hat after an impact and consider periodic replacement over time (many manufacturers suggest around five years from first use, depending on wear). Always follow the brand’s guidance.


Why Buy from Harry Hall

When it comes to protective kit, fit and practicality come first. Our riding hats range focuses on clear sizing, everyday comfort features and styles suited to schooling, hacking and show days plus accessories to customise your look.

- Recognised brands available via Harry Hall, including KEP Italia and Uvex.
- Safety information made clear: product pages list the relevant standards so you can check what’s accepted for your discipline.
- Many styles include ventilation and removable liners but make sure to check individual product details for care and comfort features.
- One-stop set-up: pair your helmet with a body protector and hat silks from the same hub for a consistent, competition-aware kit.


Riding Hat FAQs

How should a riding hat fit?
Snug and even with no rocking or pressure points; it should sit level and the harness should be secure and comfortable. A trained fitter can help confirm fit. Choose the style that matches your discipline and training needs.

Which safety standards should I look for in a riding hat?
Check our product pages for safety standards such as PAS 015:2011 (BSI Kitemark/IC), VG1 01.040 2014-12 (BSI Kitemark/IC) or ASTM F1163 (SEI). Competition rules specify acceptable standards so always check before competing.

What’s the difference between a skull cap and a peaked helmet?
A skull is a smooth, peak-less shell typically worn with a separate silk (commonly used for eventing and cross-country). A peaked helmet integrates a fixed or flexible peak and is popular for general riding and showing.

Can I use a hat with rotational-impact technology?
Some brands offer additional technologies; suitability can depend on fit and personal preference. Check the product details and try on to assess comfort and stability.

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