Riding Hats Size Guide

Riding hats are absolutely essential for every horse rider, as they provide invaluable protection for your head during riding and stable activities.

Finding a riding hat that fits correctly will not only keep you comfortable it will also protect your head against injury or trauma related to accidents and falls. 

Ayr Equestrian is here to help you learn how to identify the best riding hat size and fit for your needs. Use our guide to ensure the perfect fit.

Measurement Instructions

Before you begin measuring, it’s best to plait your hair or put it in a ponytail if it is long. If your hair is short, you do not need to change anything. Thereafter, wrap a soft measuring tape over your hair around the widest part of your head, about three-quarters of an inch above your eyebrows and just above your ear line. Repeat this a few times to get the most accurate measurement possible.

Next, check our hat sizing charts listed with every product and convert your head measurement into the closest hat size. If you are between sizes, choose the larger size or try the hat or helmet in both sizes to identify the most secure fit.

Fit Guidance

Your riding hat may take a few wears to mould comfortably to the shape of your head. Regardless, it should feel firm and secure without causing any pressure or gaps. Riding helmets should ‘lock’ against the back of your head and sit level, with around one inch’s worth of space above the eyebrows.

Your helmet should not move backward or forward when its harness is not fastened, and its harness should be fully secure when fastened. The chin strap should sit just underneath your chin and touch the bottoms of your earlobes without touching or exerting pressure on your throat.

Adjustments

Most horse riding hats have adjustable chin straps and back harness laces. Always start by adjusting your chin strap, and then tie the back laces securely with a bow. 

You should be able to insert one finger between your chin strap and chin.

Safety Considerations

Riding hats need to fit snugly and securely in order to provide adequate protection. 

They should fit evenly around your head without causing pressure or moving around, and chin straps and back laces should always be tied tightly to keep the hat in place.

Safety Standards

Riding hats must meet a range of standards in order to be worn at British Eventing, British Riding Club, Riding For Disabled, and Pony Club events. 

Approved standards include:

• PAS 015:2011; VG1 01.040 2014-12 (with an Inspec IC Mark or BSI Kitemark)
• ASTM F1163 2004a or 04a onwards (with an SEI mark)
• SNELL E2016; and AS/NZS 3838 2006 onwards (with an SAI Global Mark)

Riding Hats Care Tips

To keep your riding hat in optimal condition, store it in a cool, dark location out of direct sunlight, and consider using a protective hat bag to keep it clean and safe. Clean your hat with a mild soap and water as needed, and leave to dry at room temperature. 

Removable liners can be hand washed, and inner linings should be wiped regularly to remove grease and dirt. All components should be completely dry before storage.

FAQs

Should I have my riding hat sized by a professional?

Seeking out professional advice for hat sizing is recommended, especially if you are unsure of your head shape or have previously struggled to find a good fit. Alternatively, use your measurements and our size guides to identify the best fit for your needs.

Do I really need a horse riding hat?

A horse riding hat is essential protective equipment for every rider and should never be forgotten. A well-fitting hat can protect you against various risks and injuries and may even save your life.

Can I buy a larger horse riding hat my child can grow into?

You may be tempted to buy a size up for your kids to ensure that their riding hats fit them for years to come, but doing so compromises the protective qualities of their hats. All horse riding hats must fit snugly and securely to provide proper protection.