KEP Italia Smart Nova Polo - Beige Chinstrap
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Riding Helmets | Emmers Equestrian
A riding helmet only protects you if it fits properly, meets a recognized safety standard, and hasn't quietly aged past its useful life. Beyond that, the choice between brands like Samshield, KEP Italia, Charles Owen, Uvex, and Kask comes down to fit, ventilation, weight, and style, all genuinely different between brands, even at similar price points.
Fit matters more than any other factor: a helmet that's slightly too loose or sits too high offers far less protection in a fall than the certification label suggests, no matter how good the brand. Look for a snug, level fit with no pressure points, and don't assume your size in one brand carries over to another; shell shapes vary enough that it's worth trying before buying, especially for a first helmet.
Tips for Choosing
- Check the safety standard on the label (commonly EN1384 or VG1 in the EU, PAS015 in the UK, ASTM/SEI in the US) and confirm it's accepted by your discipline or federation, since competition rules can be specific about which standards qualify.
- Prioritize fit over features; a helmet should sit level and low at the front and back, with no gaps or pressure points, and shouldn't shift when you shake your head.
- Replace your helmet immediately after any fall involving a knock to the head, even if it looks undamaged, since the impact-absorbing foam can crush internally without visible signs.
- Replace a helmet after around five years of regular use, even without a fall, as the foam and materials degrade gradually with age, heat, and sun exposure.
- If you're unsure about fit or sizing between brands, have it checked in person rather than guessing from a size chart alone; small differences in shell shape make a real difference to protection.
Frequently asked questions
What do EN1384, VG1 and PAS015 actually mean?
Their safety certification standards are tested slightly differently across regions: EN1384 and VG1 are common across the EU, and PAS015 is used in the UK, so check which your discipline or competition requires rather than assuming any certified helmet qualifies everywhere.
Do I need to replace my helmet after a fall, even if it looks fine?
Yes, the protective foam can crush or crack internally on impact without visible external damage, which permanently reduces how well it protects you next time.
How long does a riding helmet actually last?
Manufacturers generally recommend replacing a helmet every five years of regular use, since materials degrade with age and temperature exposure even without a fall.
How should a helmet fit?
Snug and level, sitting low at the front and back, with no pressure points and no shifting when you move your head, if it rocks or rides up, it's the wrong size or shape for you.
Is a more expensive helmet actually safer?
Not necessarily. All certified helmets meet the same minimum safety standard, so higher price usually buys better ventilation, lighter weight, finish or customisation rather than a meaningfully higher protection level.
Can I get my current helmet checked before buying a new one?
Yes, it's worth having a current helmet's fit and condition checked in person if you're unsure, rather than replacing or keeping it on guesswork. Find certified riding helmets from Samshield, KEP Italia, Charles Owen, Uvex and more at Emmers Equestrian.