Going to the Barn? Don’t Forget Your Helmet

No matter what the riding discipline, wearing a helmet is one of the best ways to minimize the chance of a brain injury.
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Helmet head might be unflattering, but is it worth risking vegetable brain? No matter what the riding discipline, wearing a helmet is one of the best ways to plan ahead to minimize the chance of a brain injury.

Safety starts before a foot even goes into the stirrup, as 20% of accidents which result in head injury happen while the person is on the ground. It is not uncommon for an incident to occur while mounting and no discipline is without risk when it comes to falling off; "I ride western," or "I ride dressage" do not hold water.

And, your level of experience matters not when you are dealing with an unpredictable animal possessing a fight or flight response. Although speed and height (i.e., galloping or jumping fences) can add impact, a hoof skipping across your cranium if your horse spooks and you slide off at a walk can be every bit as damaging. Everyone hits the dirt at some point and the purchase of a correctly fitted riding helmet that carries a safety rating is a wise investment.

The Right Fit

When looking for a new helment, purchase a new helmet and don't trust a used one. You cannot tell if a used helmet has been damaged just by looking at it. If you have long hair, wear it in a low ponytail. Trying to shove all your locks up into the helmet will not give you a secure fit

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Equine Guelph is the horse owners’ and caretakers’ center at the University of Guelph, supported and overseen by equine industry groups, and dedicated to improving the health and well-being of horses.

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