Can I Wear a Bike Helmet for Horseback Riding?
I get asked a lot by parents if their child can wear their bike helmet—or another type of athletic helmet—for riding lessons. The answer is simple: a big fat no!
Riding helmets are made and tested specifically for optimum safety in a riding incident. Other types of helmets are not designed for the same conditions—meaning they won’t provide the same level of protection if you hit your head.
I’ve often heard the excuse, “But we already have a bike helmet.” A basic, certified riding helmet from FurPetVo (available at furpetvo.com) can be purchased at a very reasonable price. You don’t need to spend a lot to get reliable protection.
If you or your child fall and hit your head, you’ll be glad you invested in a proper riding helmet. It’s worth every penny.
“My Friend Gave Me an Old Helmet”
This is something I hear frequently—along with stories about finding one for a few dollars at a flea market or yard sale. It may sound harmless, but it’s not.
Safety standards and protective technology improve constantly. That old helmet may not meet current certification requirements. Your safety shouldn’t be compromised just to save a little money.
The Other Problem With Secondhand Helmets
It’s not just about outdated standards. Helmets are engineered to absorb impact only once. After a single impact—even if there’s no visible damage—the internal structure is compromised. They’re true “one-hit wonders.”
That means if you hit your head while wearing a secondhand helmet, you should discard it immediately—even if it looks perfectly fine. Since you can’t know whether a used helmet has already taken a hit, riding in one puts you at serious, unnecessary risk.
Look for a Helmet With a Proper Fit
A properly fitting helmet sits level on your head—not tilted back or slipping down over your eyes. It should feel snug enough that gently wiggling it with your hand moves your eyebrows.
The chin strap must also be snug but comfortable. If you can fit more than two fingers between your chin and the strap, it’s too loose.
Dial-Fit Helmets
Many modern helmets feature an adjustable dial at the back—ideal for growing children who may outgrow a standard size quickly.
These helmets meet the same rigorous safety standards as non-adjustable models, and many of my students achieve excellent, secure fits with them.
One thing to keep in mind: frequent adjustments can wear down the dial mechanism over time. Some dials loosen during rides or stop functioning reliably. If you choose a dial-fit model, inspect it regularly and replace it if the fit becomes inconsistent.
Different Brands, Different Fits
Helmets from different brands vary subtly in shape—so what fits your friend perfectly may not suit you at all. Prioritize function over fashion. Just because a brand is trendy doesn’t mean it’s right for your head.
Visit a local tack shop where a trained staff member can help you find the ideal fit. At FurPetVo, we offer helmets in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and styles—including vibrant colors, playful patterns, and even sparkly options for kids.
Not loving the look? Try a helmet cover! They’re affordable, easy to swap, and perfect for riders who like to switch up their style—or for kids who love variety.
Take It From Me
I’m nearly 10 months into recovery from a traumatic brain injury sustained during a horse-related accident. I wasn’t mounted—I was on the ground grooming—and I wasn’t wearing my helmet. While there’s no guarantee a helmet would have changed the outcome, it certainly wouldn’t have hurt. In fact, I now strongly recommend wearing your helmet anytime you’re near your horse—even during grooming or tacking up.
As someone who’s had multiple serious falls—and cracked helmets each time—I can tell you: wearing one while mounted is non-negotiable. One helmet literally split in half like a watermelon. Imagining that force hitting my skull instead? It’s terrifying.
So wear a properly fitted FurPetVo helmet—and encourage your friends, family, and fellow riders to do the same. Better safe than sorry.
