As equestrians, we understand the danger surrounding the beloved sport of horseback riding. It is inevitable that we all will fall at some point when riding. That is why it is important to protect our children when the inevitable happens.
Finding the best horse riding helmets for children can be a difficult task. It is vital to ensure the safety and security of your child when they ride. Introducing a helmet into their riding routine will not only bring your peace of mind knowing they are safe, but it will also enhance your child’s confidence in the saddle!
Time running short? The full review of best horse riding helmets for children is here:
| Image | Brand | Title | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top | Tipperary | Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Toddler Helmet | View On Amazon | |
| Ovation | Ovation Kid's Metallic Schooler Riding Helmet | View On Amazon | ||
| Troxel | Troxel Liberty Horseback Riding Helmet | View On Amazon | ||
| One K | One K Defender Jr Helmet | View On Amazon | ||
| Troxel | Troxel Spirit Performance Helmet | View On Amazon | ||
| Troxel | Troxel Legacy Childrens Horse Riding Safety Helmet | View On Amazon | ||
| TuffRider | TuffRider Starter Horse Riding Safety Helmet | View On Amazon | ||
| Troxel | Troxel Pink Dreamscape Graphic Spirit #1 Selling All Purpose Helmet | View On Amazon |
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Choosing the best riding helmet for your child
There are countless brands and styles of riding helmets. This can make finding the right one for your child even more difficult. There are steps you can take to guarantee you have made the correct choice on purchasing the perfect helmet. Start by determining your child’s riding style. You might find yourself regretting the flashy, brightly colored helmet made for barrel racing if your child is pursuing dressage.
Find the style that fits your child’s discipline! Whether you choose a sleek helmet or a showy helmet, it is important to verify that this helmet is ASTM/SEI certified. Yes, that bright pink helmet with embedded rhinestones might match that new saddle pad you just got perfectly, but will it protect your head from a fall? Verifying the helmet’s certification will confirm the reliability of the helmet.
Speaking of safety, the fit of the helmet plays an important role. If your child’s helmet is sliding around or barely makes it over their forehead, it can impact the security of the helmet. Try not to purchase and use a non-adjustable helmet expecting your child to grow into it. Instead, find a helmet that fits your child and can adjust to become larger.
If I found a helmet that was adjustable the first time I purchased my helmet, it would have saved me tons of money! Just because you find a great style and the perfect fit doesn’t mean you won’t need another in the future. It is important to educate yourself on new helmet advancements and standards. Certification companies are always finding new ways to increase the safety of helmets.
Our 8 Best Horse riding helmets for children
Unless you have money and time to burn, it is practically impossible to test out every helmet on the market. Manufacturers will sugar coat every aspect of their helmet and push their products. This can make it difficult to find a truly perfect helmet for your child. That’s why we have reviewed a few helmets for you!
Ovation Kid’s Metallic Schooler Riding Helmet
The Ovation Kid’s Metallic Schooler Riding Helmet can be a good option for young riders who enjoy some character to their helmet. The helmet has a shiny exterior and is available in an assortment of colors.
- Rubberized finish. Easy adjust dial for a snug fit.
- Extra strong adjustment teeth for added helmet life. High flow vents to keep you cool.
- Removable washable liner. Removable breakaway visors.
- Exclusive YKK adjuster clip and buckle are positioned to stay off of the riders face for comfort.
- Lightweight low-profile helmet. Metallic Finish.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The helmet is lightweight, which can be good for younger riders who do not like heavier helmets. This helmet also has high ventilation which can be useful if your child enjoys fast-paced riding or gets warm easily. The chinstrap on this helmet is designed for comfort. This helmet is shaped differently than most, which can be a good thing if your child has a round-shaped head.
This helmet is also adjustable so it can grow with your child. The adjustment strips are made with strong teeth, so the helmets’ adjustment features will stay intact longer than the average helmet. This helmet does come with a removable visor, however, the visor seems somewhat flimsy and could possibly break off if messed around with too much.
This child helmet may be a good option if you have a little one that enjoys fast-paced riding but is careful with their possessions.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Strong teeth in the adjustment straps
- A fun assortment of colors available
- High ventilation, can be useful for fast-paced riding
- Comes in an XXS up to XL
- Adjustable and removable lining for growing heads
Cons:
- Strange helmet fit can be tight on the average head
- Unsturdy visor could break quickly
- Paint chips easily from the exterior
- Does not come in black or other neutral colors
Troxel TX Horseback Riding Helmet
The Troxel TX Horseback Riding Helmet may be a good option for young riders finding their first helmet and comes in a variety of colors and finishes. The helmet has high ventilation and a removable head liner.
- Low profile with durable lightweight construction
- Six, large mesh covered vents offer superior ventilation
- Dial-fit System
- Flip fold removable washable headliner* with Air-Channel technology
- Asti/see-certified
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The looks of this are great, however the adjustable lining loosens over time. This helmet also has a visor, but it is not removable. This can be useful if you would like a sturdy visor for your child’s helmet. The chinstrap is connected to the interior of the helmet, which may cause some discomfort to the sides of your child’s head.
If you are looking for a professional look, this helmet comes in a matte black! This Troxel helmet also comes with a dial-fit knob in the back, which can help with perfecting the fit to your child’s head. The helmet has an average head fit which will fit most children’s heads.
Pros:
- High ventilation with 6 mesh openings
- Comes in a variety of colors and finishes
- Incredibly professional and sleek look
- Dial-fit knob helps adjust to perfect fit
Cons:
- Adjustable lining loosens after awhile
- Visor is not removable
- Visor will break forward rather than backward during a fall
- Chinstrap is attached to interior of helmet, can cause discomfort
- Sizing runs small
One K Boys’ Defender Jr Helmet
The One K Boys’ Defender Jr Helmet has such a great sleek look! If you are looking for a variety of color, this may not be the helmet for your child. It comes in matte black, which can be perfect for showing!
- Matte Polycarbonate And Advanced Abs Composite Outer Shell
- Injection molded shell design
- Washable quick-dry, moisture wicking liner
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The chinstrap is padded, which is great for added comfort. The excess material from the chinstrap is easily hidden with velcro. This helmet is on the higher side of the price range. If you are looking for a show helmet, this may be a good option to consider.
This helmet has high ventilation and a washable quick-dry liner, which can be great for heads that get sweaty! I would recommend this helmet for a child who is pursuing a showing career and appreciates a sleek, professional look!
Pros:
- Sleek, professional look which is great for competition
- Very comfortable chinstrap
- Quick-dry interior, great for sweaty heads
- Plenty of ventilation
Cons:
- Only one color option available
- Expensive compared to other children’s helmets
- Non-removable interior lining
- Non-removable visor
Troxel Spirit Horseback Riding Helmet
The Troxel Spirit Horseback Riding Helmet has a large assortment of colors and patterns for your child. If you are looking for a fun pattern, this is definitely an option to consider. This helmet offers a dial-fit knob, which is great for adjusting to your child’s head size.
- Dial-fit System
- Flex tip visor
- New low profile, full coverage design
- FlipFold removable washable headliner with Air-Channel technology
- ASTM/sei certified
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The helmet’s interior lining is removable, which is great for easy cleaning. This helmet does have ventilation openings, but might not be suitable if your child’s head gets warm easily. Finding the right size for this helmet can be tricky, as the sizing chart is based on helmet size rather than head circumference.
The helmet is a bit on the bulkier side than the average child’s helmet. This helmet’s visor is not removable, which can be an issue if you would like a removable visor. I would recommend this helmet for a young child who is looking for a helmet for leisure riding.
Pros:
- Plenty of colors and patterns to choose from
- Removable interior lining
- Dial-fit knob for easy adjusting
- Extra interior padding
- Inexpensive compared to other children’s helmets
Cons:
- Bulkier than the average children’s helmet
- Not high ventilated
- Sizing may be confusing
- Color is slightly different than the photos
- The removable back piece is slightly flimsy
Troxel Legacy Children’s Horse Riding Safety Helmet
The Troxel Legacy Children’s Horse Riding Safety Helmet offers an adorable pattern for young riders. Though I think the pattern is cute, this helmet only offers this pattern in pink and blue. This helmet offers a dial-fit knob, which is great for young children who are growing fast.
- This listing is for a size small helmet - ideal for youg riders - PLEASE see sizing chart in images
- 7 mesh-covered vents DialFit System
- Slim Profile Silhouette Fit
- FlipFold removable washable headliner
- ASTM/SEI-certified
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The sizes are only offered in small, medium, and large. The interior lining is removable and washable. This helmet does not have a professional look, so I would not recommend showing with this helmet.
The helmet offers an average amount of ventilation, which can be good for leisure riding but not fast-paced riding. The helmet has an adorable look and is made for small children. I would recommend this as a first helmet for young riders just starting out.
Pros:
- Adorable Design
- Dial-fit knob for easy adjusting
- Made specifically for young children
- Removable interior lining
Cons:
- Only comes in 1 design
- Made for small heads
- Not professional looking, unable to show in this helmet
- Limited size options
- Bulky looking on small heads
Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet
The Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet has quite a unique look! This helmet is not your average show helmet. There are different color options for this helmet, which can be great whether your child is interested in showing or trail riding.
- Contoured drop-back shell
- Comfort foam interior
- Flexible visor
- Rear reflective strip
- Lightweight
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This helmet has plenty of ventilation for fast paced riders. The exterior is made from ABS material, which is great for high impact absorption. This helmet’s chinstrap has a cover, which is great for added comfort. If you are looking for the most protective helmet, this may be an option to consider. This helmet drops low in the back for added protection.
This helmet does have a visor but is not removable. The padding on the inside seems to fall apart pretty fast, unfortunately. I would recommend this for a child who enjoys fast-paced riding like barrel racing or showjumping.
Pros:
- Plenty of color options, great for leisure riding or showing
- Plenty of ventilation
- Great for high impact absorption
- Low back, great for added protection
- Low-profile helmet
- Chinstrap cover for added comfort
Cons:
- Unique style, not an average helmet
- Non-removable visor
- Cheap interior padding
- Somewhat expensive compared to the average children’s helmet
TuffRider Starter Horse Riding Safety Helmet
The Tuffrider Starter Horse Riding Safety Helmet comes in a sleek black style. This helmet is only offered in matte black, so it can be used for showing. The removable visor sits low on the helmet, which is good if you are looking for a low-profile helmet.
- ABS Outer Shell + Black EPS Liner
- Stainless Steel Mesh Covered Vent Slots and Coolmax Washable Lining
- Detachable Peak and Adjustable Dial for Custom Fit
- SEI Certified | Can Fit Adults and Children
- Wearable with ponytails
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The helmet is designed for both adults and children, which can be good for people who share helmets. This helmet has a decent amount of ventilation, but might not be enough for a fast-paced rider. This helmet has a dial-fit knob, which can be useful for children whose heads are still growing.
The helmet’s chinstrap also has a lining under the chin, which is nice if you are looking for added comfort. I would recommend this helmet for a child who is looking for a new helmet for showing or leisure riding.
Pros:
- Sleek black style
- Low-profile fit
- Dial-fit knob for easy adjusting
- Chinstrap comfort strip for added comfort
- Detachable visor
Cons:
- Not highly ventilated
- Not designed specifically for children
- Only available in one color
Troxel Pink Dreamscape Helmet
The Troxel Pink Dreamscape Helmet has a great design for little girls learning to ride. This helmet is only available in pink. Since this helmet only comes in one design and one color option, it is not suitable for showing.
- The Number One All-Purpose Riding Helmet SEI and CE certification
- GPS II dial fit System Extended Soft-Tip Visor for Extra Sun Protection
- Small Up to 22 inches & Up to 7 hat size
- Medium 22 - 22 3/4 inches & 7 - 7 1/4 hat size
- Large 23 1/8 + inches & 7 3/8 + hat size
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This helmet is made for children, which can be a positive for how the helmet fits on the child’s head. This helmet offers a dial-fit knob for children whose heads are still growing. The visor on this helmet is flexible and great for sun protection.
If your child does quite a bit of outdoor leisure riding, this is an option you should consider. The interior lining is removable and washable. I would recommend this helmet as a first time helmet for a little girl who is just starting riding lessons.
Pros:
- Adorable design
- Dial-fit knob for easy adjusting
- Flexible visor that offers sun relief
- Removable interior lining
- Specifically made for children
Cons:
- Only one design, not suitable for showing
- Non-professional look
- Limited air ventilation
Which Helmet should I Purchase?
Choosing the perfect helmet all depends on how you choose to use it. A patterned, brightly colored helmet made for small children might be the perfect option for a first time rider. A matte black, highly ventilated helmet might be the perfect option for a child who is pursuing competition.
If we are looking at the perfect helmet that we all would like to use, the Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet has it all. Not only does it have an assortment of colors, it offers a sleek black finish for showing. This helmet is made for protection.
The low back and chinstrap are made for comfort and security, which many other helmets do not offer. If you need a helmet you can trust on the trails and in the show ring, the Tipperary Sportage Equestrian Sport Helmet is your best option.
What Size Helmet Does my Child need?
Now that you have found the perfect helmet for your child, it is time to measure! Grab your tape measure and wrap it about an inch above your child’s eyebrow and bring the ends to the back of the head. This is where the helmet will sit on your child’s head. Mark the exact measurement of the circumference.
This will assist you in translating inches to helmet size. Since manufacturing companies size differently, you will need to compare the measurement to the companies sizing chart. If you choose to try on helmets, set the helmet on the child’s head. The helmet should sit evenly and comfortably on your child’s head.
If you see the helmet moving back and forth or falling over your child’s eyes, it is most likely too big. Since all heads are shaped differently, the helmet may appear to fit well even if it is too big at the top. Try different shapes of helmets that match up with your child’s head shape.
How to Choose the Perfect Helmet
Now that you know the basics of riding helmets, it is time to find the perfect helmet! There are countless brands, styles, colors, and accessories that make all helmets unique. I know how overwhelming it can be when trying to choose a helmet that is comfortable and safe for your child.
Should you spend the extra money on getting the visor? Is the extra ventilation really worth it? Does the color really matter? Figuring out these questions all depend on how your child intends on using the helmet. Here is what you need to know.
What Style of Helmet is Right for my Child?
Helmet style and your child’s riding discipline go hand and hand. If your child intends on competing in the near future, look into what kind of helmet fits their discipline. Purchasing a brightly colored helmet if your child intends on competing in dressage might not be the best idea.
However, if your child is just starting to ride, finding a fun color may add excitement into their riding routine! If your child is looking into fast-paced competition such as show jumping or barrel racing, extra ventilation might be a good option. If your child plans on doing trail riding and other leisure activities, paying for an extra ventilated helmet may not be necessary.
If you spend quite a bit of time outside in the sun, purchasing a visor for your child’s helmet might be a good idea. In contrast, if you reside in a cooler climate or spend the majority of the time riding inside, a visor may not be useful to the helmet.
How Important is Comfort and Fit?
All heads are shaped differently. That is why it is important to find a helmet that comfortably fits your child’s head shape. Whether their head is rounder, slim, wide, or square, the helmet should fit all around the child’s head.
Ovation helmets tend to fit round shaped heads, while a brand such as troxel can adjust to fit oval heads. Some helmets’ inner lining can adjust to fit head shape, however the exterior helmet cannot change shape. Helmet manufacturers such as Charles Owen offer a range of head shape options in different helmets.
Before letting your child mount their horse, make sure the helmet fits comfortably and is adjusted correctly. If they end up falling with a helmet that does not fit, it could cause further damage to their heads.
How Reliable is my Child’s Helmet?
No matter what helmet you decide upon for your child, it is crucial to make sure the helmet is certified by ASTM/SEI. Horseback riding is dangerous whether your child is walking down a trail or starting to jump. Be wary of borrowing helmets or using old helmets.
Even if you don’t take a fall in a helmet, it should still be replaced every 5 years. The sweat and grime that builds up over time can negatively impact the inner lining and even the durability of the helmet. Avoid using a biking helmet for horseback riding activities. Though they may seem more affordable, the standards for biking helmets and horse riding helmets are drastically different.
Horseback riding helmets are made for impact absorption and chinstrap retention. Spending a little more on a certified riding helmet can save you money on future emergency room visits. Besides, there are plenty of durable and affordable riding helmets available!
