A riding hat is the most important piece of kit you will buy, so it is worth taking time over the fit. A hat that is too loose can move at the wrong moment, and one that is too tight is uncomfortable enough that you will not wear it properly.
Start with the standard
Look for a hat made to a recognised standard, such as PAS 015 and VG1, which is printed on the label inside. The standard tells you the hat has been tested to a published specification. It does not make any hat unbreakable, and no hat can promise complete protection.
Hats also come in different shapes, and two hats in the same measurement can sit very differently. That is why the label size is only the start, and why trying a hat on matters more than the number alone.
Replace a hat after any fall or impact, even if it looks undamaged. The shell can be weakened inside where you cannot see it, so a hat that has taken a knock has done its job and should be retired.
Measuring your head
Use a soft tape around the head, about one centimetre above the eyebrows and level all the way round. Keep the tape snug but not tight, and take the measurement in centimetres. If you are between sizes, try both rather than guessing.
Hair makes a difference. Measure with your hair as you will wear it when riding, and remember that a hat should not sit on the back of the head or tip forward over the eyes. A hat that sits too high or too low will never feel secure. Take the measurement two or three times and write it down. If the numbers vary, use the larger one as your starting point and try the size on rather than ordering blind.
Trying a hat on
Put the hat on and fasten the chin strap. It should feel firm and even around the head, with no pressure points at the front or sides. Shake your head gently: the hat should stay put without the strap doing all the work.
Wear it for a few minutes in the shop. A hat that feels tight after five minutes will be unbearable after an hour in the arena. Check that the harness sits comfortably and that the chin strap can be adjusted without pulling the hat down. If the hat rocks when you press the front, it is too big. If it leaves a red mark after a few minutes, it is too small or the wrong shape for your head. Check the size guide for the size table, then look at our hats and safety collection.
- Measure about one centimetre above the eyebrows.
- Keep the tape level and snug, not tight.
- Measure with your hair as you will wear it.
- Try the hat on and fasten the chin strap.
- Shake your head gently to check the fit.
- Replace the hat after any fall or impact.
- Check the standard on the label inside.
Fit is easier to judge with a second opinion, so ask us if you are unsure. Our saddlers can help by phone, by email or from photos and measurements, and we will explain what to check when the hat arrives. If you have any concern about a head injury, seek medical advice.
