A riding helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment you own. Yet helmet fitting is one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of equestrian kit — many riders are wearing helmets that are too large, too small, or simply past their safe working life without realising it.
This guide covers how to measure your head correctly, what a proper fit feels like, and what to look for when choosing a helmet — so you can ride with confidence.
Why Fit Matters
A helmet that doesn't fit correctly won't protect you the way it's designed to. Too loose, and it will shift on impact — reducing the energy absorption that protects your skull. Too tight, and it can cause pressure headaches and distraction while riding. The goal is a snug, even fit with no movement and no pressure points.
Step 1 — Measure Your Head
Use a soft tape measure (or a piece of string measured against a ruler) to measure the circumference of your head. Place the tape approximately 2.5cm above your eyebrows at the front, and around the widest part of the back of your skull. Take the measurement in centimetres — this is your hat size starting point.
Head shapes vary significantly: some people have rounder heads (oval round), others are longer front-to-back (oval long). Most helmet brands offer different shell shapes, so knowing your head shape as well as your circumference will help narrow down the right fit.
Step 2 — Try the Helmet On
Place the helmet on your head with the front sitting approximately two finger-widths above your eyebrows. It should sit level — not tilted back. Press down gently on the top of the helmet: it should not rock forward, backward, or side to side.
Check the following:
- Even pressure: the helmet should feel snug all the way around, with no gaps and no single pressure point
- No rocking: shake your head gently — the helmet should move with your head, not independently
- Cheek pads (if fitted): should touch your cheeks without pressing uncomfortably
- Brow clearance: you should be able to raise your eyebrows without the helmet lifting
Step 3 — Fit the Harness
The harness (chin strap) is as important as the shell fit. A correctly fitted harness keeps the helmet in place on impact.
- The V-junction of the strap should sit just below each ear
- The chin strap should sit snugly under your chin — you should be able to fit no more than two fingers between the strap and your chin
- When you open your mouth wide, you should feel the helmet press down slightly — this confirms the harness is correctly tensioned
Helmet Safety Standards
Always check that any helmet you purchase meets current safety standards. In New Zealand and Australia, look for helmets certified to one or more of the following:
- AS/NZS 3838 — the Australian/New Zealand standard for equestrian helmets
- EN 1384 — the European standard (2017 revision or later)
- ASTM F1163 — the American standard, widely accepted internationally
- PAS 015 — a UK standard, often seen on higher-specification helmets
For competition, always check the rules of your discipline and governing body — some require specific certifications.
When to Replace Your Helmet
- After any fall or impact — replace immediately, even if there is no visible damage. The internal foam liner compresses on impact and does not recover.
- Every 3–5 years — materials degrade over time with UV exposure, sweat, and general wear
- If the fit changes — significant weight loss or gain can affect fit; don't ride in a helmet that no longer fits correctly
- If the shell is cracked or the harness is frayed — retire it immediately
The Kylin Vented Helmet
The Kylin Vented Helmet is a well-regarded option for everyday riding and schooling, offering a ventilated shell for comfort during warmer months without compromising on protection. Its adjustable harness system makes it straightforward to achieve a secure, personalised fit.
Browse our full range in the Helmets & Safety collection — including options across certification levels and disciplines.
A Note on Second-Hand Helmets
Avoid purchasing second-hand helmets. You cannot know the full history of a used helmet — whether it has been dropped, involved in a fall, or stored in conditions that degrade the materials. The cost of a new helmet is modest compared to the protection it provides.
Getting Fitted In-Store
If you're unsure about fit, the best approach is always to try helmets in person. Different brands suit different head shapes, and what works for one rider may not work for another. When in doubt, size down rather than up — a slightly snug helmet will bed in slightly with wear; a loose one will never fit correctly.