Whether you are a professional, leisure rider or a complete beginner there are a few things that should be considered when purchasing a Horse Riding Hat or helmet to ensure it fits your needs. Generally riding hats fall into two categories either Jockey Skulls or Riding Helmets. The difference between the two is down to one component and that is a Jockey Skull will not have a peak whereas a Riding Helmet will have a peak. The peak originated from the first styles of helmet available however it has since been thought that the fixed peak of the original styles were not suitable for the higher risk equine sports such as racing or Cross Country. Newer modern styles now have flexible peaks but there still remains the two distinctive styles to choose from.
These are a crash hat style which are usually worn with a hat cover of the riders choice whether it be a plain silk/ velvet or a coloured choice of the rider. These are predominantly worn for Racing, XC, Hunting and are great for all Pony Club activities.
These are very similar to the Jockey Skull Riding Hat, however with the addition of a fixed peak on the front .  There are a number of styles to choose from starting with a more traditional look to the modern vented styles. Velvet Riding Hats are most frequently seeni in the following disciplines, Showing, Hunting (for the more traditional velvet pile styles), Show Jumping and Dressage.
Most horse Riding Hats and helmets are vented to allow a cooler and more comfortable wear and some of the styles can be made with a more bespoke touch such as the Charles Owen AYR8 helmet.  The Bespoke Ayr 8 Riding Hat is a brilliant design to match your jacket or team colours to your riding outfit.
All our helmets have the British Kitemark and will fulfill one or more of the safety standards below:
These are the current and highest levels of safety.  If you intend to compete in a helmet please check with your affiliated society regarding their current safety standard to ensure you keep within their rules.
We always suggest being fitted professionally before purchasing a new helmet in order to make sure the correct size is selected.
Instore at Edgemere we offer a full Riding Hat Fitting Service.  This ensures each and every Customer is safely riding their horses in comfortable and stylish hats.  Allowing you to enjoy the ride.