Helmets, hunt caps, and respect

[Lumos712]

<soapbox>

As I read the updates on Darren Chiacchia, it reminds me there could have been a VERY different press release had he not been wearing an approved helmet.

That being said... we all know the dangers of riding without a helmet. Anyone who has half a brain knows this... and those that don't probably wish they still did.

However, it ceases to amaze me that most ULRs and BNTs still believe that their old-fashioned hunt cap is actually going to protect their head if they fall. It's almost as if they're obstinate in their beliefs that, since they grew up in an era of where hunt caps were considered protective headwear, they still are. I can't tell you how many times someone's said, "Here, wear my helmet" if they jump on a borrowed horse... and that "helmet" is no more than a tattered old hunt cap, which has been scientifically proven to provide about as much protection as, well, a cowboy hat!

I'm almost positive ULRs/BNTs are aware of what happens when you FALL ON YOUR HEAD from any height. Your brain gets messed up, duh. :rolleyes: It doesn't have to even be on a horse! But to think that just because they are "good riders," that they have a better probability of staying on. Bullsh*t. There are so many stories on this board that have to do with riders falling off at the walk on their 28 year old bombproof schoolmaster. It doesn't matter what you're doing, whether it's walking down the trail or galloping around a **** course - there's always that risk.

I also think that ULRs have a huge influence on the younger crowd. I've had conversations with many YRs who made the switch from helmet to hunt cap simply because their trainers made them (seriously), or "because they look better, and the pros wear them." What kind of role model is that?

So, that being said... I'm really starting to lose respect for those ULRs and BNTs who hack around bareheaded or in their "helmet" (unapproved, 30 year old hunt cap). To me, you can be the greatest rider in the U.S., have numerous accolades and rewards -- but if you're dumb enough to think that riding with a crappy unapproved hunt cap is going to protect your head if you take a spill -- then that, to me, is far more prevalent than any gold medals won.

I'm not saying that they should be wearing an ASTM/SEI helmet with their tails. There are situations that call for tradition, and that I can understand. But when it's considered perfectly acceptable to wear a helmet instead, why not wear one? "Because approved helmets look ugly." :no:

I don't have respect for utterly stupid people (Darwin awards, anyone?) -- so why should I have respect for the ULR who doesn't even bother protect the one and only head they have?

</soapbox>

[annikak]

You must wear a SEI/ASTM approved helmet in any jumping phase of an event. Yes, for dressage, you can "opt" out, but any jumping? Must Have Approved Helmet.

[Roney]

I am not a militant helmet mandater, but the first time I visited the schooling ring at a three star and saw all but one ULR in a hunt cap, I was completely shocked. I had no idea the culture of unsafe helmets was so pervasive in upper-level eventing.

If people want to take such a huge risk at home, fine, but I have no idea why the USEA/USEF would not mandate approved helmets at shows. Then again, I have no idea why anyone would not wear an approved helmet, especially in a show atmosphere, so maybe I'm missing something... :confused:

[deltawave]

You've just reminded me to send that email to all the BNRs who so bravely put their names on the list of EVENTERS FOR SAFETY. I wonder how many of them school in baseball caps at home? Or whenever they don't HAVE to wear a helmet? :no: Safety, my butt. Put your money where your mouth is and set an example!

[JER]

When you're lying on the ground unconscious, there's no real distinction between jumping and dressage.

[kimbrawner]

That would be an interesting poll:

How many people's most serious fall/ injury occured in the dressage ring?

I am missing an entire day of my life from asking for a simple extended trot across the diagonal. And yes I was wearing an approved helmet, and it was cracked from ear to ear. Without it, the Dr said there was no way I would have lived.

[subk]

My favorite signature line on COTH goes something like this: "If you think your hair style is more important than protecting your brain then it probably is."

I don't remember whose it was.

[Jazzy Lady]

My favorite signature line on COTH goes something like this: "If you think your hair style is more important than protecting your brain then it probably is."

I don't remember whose it was.

Deltawave!

[c_expresso]

My trainer wears a hunt cap in dressage. It is very common. Two of my friends do also... I have one too. But everyone has to use a helmet in jumping and my trainer uses one when schooling at home, and she did show in her helmet when she had the two babies out...

[Fiat Lux]

Just wanted to bring this to everyone's attention, especially those who think you don't need an approved helmet if you aren't jumping, if you're just riding at home. Page 94 of this week's Chronicle: Dressage trainer Ricardo Amaya sustained massive head injuries -- he was found unconscious in the arena at home. A google search shows that he has since passed away. I don't want to jump to conclusions, but I have to guess there was no approved helmet here.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Ricardo's family and loved ones.

[bornfreenowexpensive]

I will admit it....I tend to wear a hunt cap for dressage at shows. At home, I almost always were my approved helmet...but I have hopped on the super quiet safe broke to death QH in a western saddle with a baseball cap.

At a show, I do wear an approved hat with a harness on any young horse or any horse who I don't really really really trust for all phases...but will use my hunt cap on my quiet sane horses for dressage who have proven to me that they are not going to be stupid. It is a measured risk...but I completely acknowledge it is a risk and I respect anyone who chooses to be smarter and always wear their approved helmet.

[Bogie]

If someone who is older than 18 chooses to wear an unapproved helmet because it "looks" better, I suppose it is their right. But it sets a terrible example for younger riders.

c_espresso, I believe you are still under 18 and your post is a perfect example of how your coach has influenced you and your friends.

Even the safest, calmest horse can trip and fall. One of the worst falls I ever had was when the horse I was riding tripped and fell when we were trotting in an arena. Perfect footing, nothing special, but he landed on me.

Let's face it folks, helmets are helmets. No one looks all that different in a hunt cap than in an approved helmet.

[Sabovee]

I'm taking one of my horses out at PSG next year.
I'm going to wear my helmet - top hat be damned. To me it doesn't matter that I'm not jumping!!

I'm a dressage trainer - I wear a helmet - EVERY HORSE, EVERY RIDE.

[olympicdreams04]

Can I be a stupid example of how the powers that be at events are getting tougher? I think I literally felt elimination crawling along my stock pin after a SJ phase at a recognized HT in FL this winter when the TD called me out for my hunt cap that I wore in the SJ phase. Now it is fair to note that I have worn that same one since I was 12 and it was given to me by an UL rider that I knew at the time (since I didn't wear a helmet before this...*gasp* backyard young rider faux pas). I have worn this same helmet from BN to A and this was the ONLY time I was called out on it. Props to the TD for saying something. I promptly went and found a GPA at a garage sale for $20. It had a birdsnest in it, but it FIT!

Additional note: I ride race horses for a living. I ride in a Caliente that is more likely to serve as a not-very-attractive soup bowl than honest head protection. So do 90% of all of the people I ride with at the track, and 99% of jockeys I ride with. This is also something that needs to be addressed in the racing industry but likely will not be for a long time.

[deltawave]

Nobody is forcing you to wear a Caliente OR a hunt cap. :( Yes, it needs addressing, one individual at a time.

[c_expresso]

If someone who is older than 18 chooses to wear an unapproved helmet because it "looks" better, I suppose it is their right. But it sets a terrible example for younger riders.

c_espresso, I believe you are still under 18 and your post is a perfect example of how your coach has influenced you and your friends.

Even the safest, calmest horse can trip and fall. One of the worst falls I ever had was when the horse I was riding tripped and fell when we were trotting in an arena. Perfect footing, nothing special, but he landed on me.

Let's face it folks, helmets are helmets. No one looks all that different in a hunt cap than in an approved helmet.

My friends that wear them actually ride with different trainers... one other friend that wears one rides with same trainer though. Anyhow I know it is a risk, and any horse could trip or fall, or spook, etc. However I trust my horse enough and will take the risk. I probably wouldn't wear it on most horses.

[pegasusmom]

Rule EV113 Dress, 1.Protective Headgear addresses requirements for all phases of eventing. It is illegal to jump in anything other than properly fitting headgear which passes or surpasses ASTM/SEI standard, with a harness, properly fastened.

The TD at our last event also tld me that under the age of 18 you must wear approved headgear in all three phases, but I am not finding that rule at the moment. Janet??

[c_expresso]

I think when you are under 18 you have to wear a helmet too, but I am 18 in "horse show years".

[scubed]

Yes, that is correct. It is in the general USEF rules, GR801 that juniors must wear ASTM headgear including in dressage

[Jealoushe]

Just wanted to bring this to everyone's attention, especially those who think you don't need an approved helmet if you aren't jumping, if you're just riding at home. Page 94 of this week's Chronicle: Dressage trainer Ricardo Amaya sustained massive head injuries -- he was found unconscious in the arena at home. A google search shows that he has since passed away. I don't want to jump to conclusions, but I have to guess there was no approved helmet here.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Ricardo's family and loved ones.

He was most definitly without a helmet, discussion here:

http://chronicleforums.com/Forum/showthread.php?t=140420&highlight=ricardo

:(

[Eventer13]

Juniors cant wear a hunt cap in dressage? Seems weird, I though I remembered relatively recent pictures of juniors at the NAYRC riding in a hunt cap. Maybe they were older than I thought.

[Meredith Clark]

To wear a helmet in upper level dressage? I know at Rolex and what not almost everyone.. if not everyone doesn't... but are you allowed to wear your helmet? Can you choose to not take it off when you salute as a man?

I'm crazy about saftey I wear a helmet everytime I get on and I won't take it off.. even if i need to take my sweatshirt off I'll get off the horse, take my helmet off, take off the hoodie, put the helmet back on, then get back on the horse... can you wear an approved helmet at all times and keep it on?

[mythical84]

Kind of reminds me of the highschool train of thought, "well all the cool kids are doing it." Someone once asked me why I wear a helmet and my simple reply was "I like my brain." I remember seeing photos of a certain BNR in a team training session schooling over fences in a hunt cap. Not cool at all. Impressionable youth see those photos and think they can do the same.

I used to ride with a hunt cap b/c I liked the look ... I even fell off in dressage warm-up with one on, but tried to brush it off. I kept thinking about how lucky I was, and now I do dressage in my Charles Owen GR8. I like the look and it protects my head.

[Janet]

Yes, that is correct. It is in the general USEF rules, GR801 that juniors must wear ASTM headgear including in dressage
Everything I can find about juniors in GR 801 (GR 801.3) is restricted to "Hunter, Jumper and Hunter Seat Equitation sections, and all sub-juniors riding in the Paso Fino."

Where are you finding the references to dressage and eventing?

[msghook]

Janet, as usual you are correct. There is no reference to Juniors wearing ASTM/SEI hats for Dressage or Eventing dressage. (OK flame me because by not capitalizing dressage after Eventing I imply that it is not really Dressage, with a capital D).

Malcolm

[olympicdreams04]

Nobody is forcing you to wear a Caliente OR a hunt cap. :( Yes, it needs addressing, one individual at a time.

I understand that, DW. Addressing this one individual at a time, however, will never do. If NYRA, for instance, doesn't do something to mandate approved helmets, they're never going to be seen. And it's likely neither NYRA, or the JC, will ever do that. One of the biggest obstacles is cost in the racing world. In the eventing world, though, I feel that hunt caps are very much "out of fashion" so to speak, and that is good to see.

[pegasusmom]

Janet, as usual you are correct. There is no reference to Juniors wearing ASTM/SEI hats for Dressage or Eventing dressage. (OK flame me because by not capitalizing dressage after Eventing I imply that it is not really Dressage, with a capital D).

Malcolm


Interesting as the TD at our last event intrepreted that general rule to include eventing as well.

[FlightCheck]

It always looks weird to me to see juniors/YR's NOT in helmets when riding - when I announce dressage shows, I have to constantly remind myself that they are "not required".

[x]

OK
I know what BNT stands for, but what does ULR stand for?

[VentDependent]

OK
I know what BNT stands for, but what does ULR stand for?
Upper Level Rider?

[seeuatx]

ULR= Upper Level Rider

I too would find it strange to see a jr. in anything but ASTM/SEI approved helmets, but perhaps that is my pony club background.

I love, love, love my IRH and wear it for everything including Dressage shows.

Isn't there a USEF rule that anyone may opt to wear a helmet for non-required disciplines?

[billiebob]

I fall off too much not to wear a helmet. My grandpa made fun of me because I've even worn it herding cattle on their ranch. Later on that week I met a friend of theirs who hasn't ridden for twenty years because she ended up in a coma after trying to saddlebreak a young mare. Needless to say she wasn't wearing a helmet. If I ever compete in dressage or western events, I'm wearing my helmet. Period.

[scubed]

b. Upon arrival, wearing a hard hat is compulsory for anyone riding a horse on the flat.

Does this rule mean that ULR cannot wear a top hat (at intermediate/advanced at a horse trial, not FEI event)?

This would imply that you can wear protective headgear without penalty, however says that you can wear a top hat, which contradicts the statement above
b. Horse Trials (Intermediate and Advanced)—Two Day & Three Day Events. As above except
no tweed coat. When tails are worn: Top Hat—black or dark blue; Shirt—stock with pin; Gloves
(required)—white or dark color; Britches—as above; Boots—preferably black dress or a black
full grain leather leg piece and matching leather boot. Chaps and half-chaps are not allowed.
Members of armed and police forces, service dress with gloves, regulation headgear and spurs
in accordance with EV113. Protective headgear may be worn without penalty. (See General
Rules, GR801)

GR908 - agreement states the following, implying that you can wear protective gear without penalty
I have read the Federation Rules about protective equipment, including GR801 and EV113,
and I understand that I am entitled to wear protective equipment without penalty, and I
acknowledge that the Federation strongly encourages me to do so while WARNING that no
protective equipment can guard against all injuries.

[foxhavenfarm]

I will admit it....I tend to wear a hunt cap for dressage at shows. At home, I almost always were my approved helmet...but I have hopped on the super quiet safe broke to death QH in a western saddle with a baseball cap.

At a show, I do wear an approved hat with a harness on any young horse or any horse who I don't really really really trust for all phases...but will use my hunt cap on my quiet sane horses for dressage who have proven to me that they are not going to be stupid. It is a measured risk...but I completely acknowledge it is a risk and I respect anyone who chooses to be smarter and always wear their approved helmet.

Ditto!

[deltawave]

A "hard hat" is not a helmet. Not sure if a top hat = a hard hat, but that's some pretty darn vague terminology!

Yes, you certainly can wear protective headgear at the upper levels, no matter what else you are wearing. And no, men are not required to "doff" their hat to salute. They can salute like us girls do if they wish to be smart and keep their helmets on. :)

[Janet]

Isn't there a USEF rule that anyone may opt to wear a helmet for non-required disciplines?
Yep
GR801.4. recently expanded to say you can wear a safety vest in any disipline without penalty
4. Any exhibitor may wear protective headgear (ASTM/SEI) and/or a protective safety vest,
specifically designed for use in equestrian sport in any division or class without penalty from
the judge. The Federation recommends that the vest meet or surpass the current ASTM
standard or be certified by the Safety Equipment Institute. BOD 6/26/07 Effective 12/1/07

[Janet]

The reference to "hard hat" "on arrival" is a little confusing, since a "hard hat" is not necessarily ASTM/SEI, but is not a top hat either.

I would probably interpret it to mean that if you are riding on the flat- except for just before going into the dressage ring- you have to wear at least a "hard hat". For your dressage test, and just before, you can wear a top hat. For jumping you have to wear an ASTM/SEI helmet.

But I would like to have clarification from Malcolm.

[criss]

Yes, you certainly can wear protective headgear at the upper levels, no matter what else you are wearing. And no, men are not required to "doff" their hat to salute. They can salute like us girls do if they wish to be smart and keep their helmets on. :)
That's good to know (for the sake of the fiance, who will attend his first show next month :D). I had kind of wondered but not gotten around to asking yet. Does that go for straight dressage, too, or only eventing?

[Janet]

That's good to know (for the sake of the fiance, who will attend his first show next month :D). I had kind of wondered but not gotten around to asking yet. Does that go for straight dressage, too, or only eventing?
ANY discipline.
See post #36.

[amastrike]

I get genuinely annoyed when I see people riding without helmets. I want to yell at them, "don't you know how dangerous that is and how stupid you're being?!" I don't care how good you are or how obedient your horse is--SHIT HAPPENS. My respect for a rider essentially disappears when they ride helmet-less. They can't be THAT good or THAT knowledgeable if they don't know that horses are horses and can be potentially deadly.

[tulkas]

Amastrike,
That's just the facist in you struggling to get out. Fight it off.

tulkas

[amastrike]

Amastrike,
That's just the facist in you struggling to get out. Fight it off.

tulkas

:confused:

[chancellor2]

A "hard hat" is not a helmet. Not sure if a top hat = a hard hat, but that's some pretty darn vague terminology!

Yes, you certainly can wear protective headgear at the upper levels, no matter what else you are wearing. And no, men are not required to "doff" their hat to salute. They can salute like us girls do if they wish to be smart and keep their helmets on. :)


This is not completely true. If you choose to wear a helmet, at least in dressage, you need to wear your short coat. You cannot wear a shadbelly and a helmet.

[One Star]

Juniors cant wear a hunt cap in dressage? Seems weird, I though I remembered relatively recent pictures of juniors at the NAYRC riding in a hunt cap. Maybe they were older than I thought.

Last year at the Ocala CCI*/CCI**, in our Young Rider divisions, most of the under-18-year-old competitors were wearing top hats and shadbellies. Those who competed in dressage frocks wore hunt caps. I do not remember a single competitor wearing an approved helmet.

In fact, I DO remember it being particularly windy during Dressage, and many of the young riders who were competing for the first time in top hat and tails were losing their top hats right and left at the canter, and completing the remainder of their tests hatless...

[mbarrett]

I'm no expert by any means, but if an event is run under FEI rules, young riders can were a hunt cap/top hat in dressage? It the event is under USEF/USEA rules, approved helmets are required?

Where is Janet when we need her.

[Janet]

NAYRC, as well as any kind of CCI or CIC, run under FEI rules, which have different helmet rules.

But, as Malcolm confirmed (and if anyone knows the rules, it is Malcolm), under USEF rules There is no reference to Juniors wearing ASTM/SEI hats for Dressage or Eventing dressage.

[scubed]

So, (while still somewhat confused), am I correct in stating that regardless of age, you have to wear a hard hat ( or, but not required an approved helmet) riding on the flat at anytime, except when going int/adv in which case you can wear a top hat, but apparently will not be penalized for wearing an approved helmet, even with a shadbelly.:confused:

[criss]

ANY discipline.
See post #36.
Well, but they don't say "and you are also exempted from removing your hat if you are wearing safety headgear but would otherwise be required to remove your hat." So I just thought I'd ask for clarification...

[Janet]

Well, but they don't say "and you are also exempted from removing your hat if you are wearing safety headgear but would otherwise be required to remove your hat." So I just thought I'd ask for clarification...
The rules say
5. Competitors must take the reins in one hand at the salute. Gentlemen are not required to remove their hats at the salute

[J Swan]

NAYRC, as well as any kind of CCI or CIC, run under FEI rules, which have different helmet rules.

But, as Malcolm confirmed (and if anyone knows the rules, it is Malcolm), under USEF rules


What are juniors doing wearing shadbellies in the first place?

[Lumos712]

OK, the whole point of my thread was not to figure out whether the rules state if a junior can wear a hunt cap or not in competition, but to openly say I have issues with PROS wearing them solely on the basis that they're a good enough rider to prevent falls. If a pro goes, "I know I am taking a risk by not wearing a helmet, but I am AWARE of it and realize my chances of getting a head injury are much higher" blah blah blah -- then I'm fine. But the fact that kids, who look up to these riders as their idols, are mimicking their behavior and consequently mislead in the belief that wearing a hunt cap is actually going to protect them!

I'd bet money that if you went up to the average junior and asked them if they'd wear a derby instead of a unapproved hunt cap. I'll bet most will *think* the hunt cap provides more protection. Maybe it does on a very minimal and insignificant level, but the fact they don't realize wearing a cap still provides no protection against brain injury.

ULRs are completely deceptive when they say something like, "Let me put on my HELMET" and then stick a beaten up, 30 year old hunt cap on their noggin. Not every junior eventer is/was in Pony Club and as a result, a lot of them think hard = protection.

[Janet]

What are juniors doing wearing shadbellies in the first place?
That is a different argument entirely.

[JERinNJ]

OK, the whole point of my thread was not to figure out whether the rules state if a junior can wear a hunt cap or not in competition, but to openly say I have issues with PROS wearing them solely on the basis that they're a good enough rider to prevent falls. If a pro goes, "I know I am taking a risk by not wearing a helmet, but I am AWARE of it and realize my chances of getting a head injury are much higher" blah blah blah -- then I'm fine. But the fact that kids, who look up to these riders as their idols, are mimicking their behavior and consequently mislead in the belief that wearing a hunt cap is actually going to protect them!

I'd bet money that if you went up to the average junior and asked them if they'd wear a derby instead of a unapproved hunt cap. I'll bet most will *think* the hunt cap provides more protection. Maybe it does on a very minimal and insignificant level, but the fact they don't realize wearing a cap still provides no protection against brain injury.

ULRs are completely deceptive when they say something like, "Let me put on my HELMET" and then stick a beaten up, 30 year old hunt cap on their noggin. Not every junior eventer is/was in Pony Club and as a result, a lot of them think hard = protection.

I think you are not giving juniors credit of even a smidgen of intelligence with this statement.

If you walk up to a junior competing at the ULs (where you see the most juniors wearing hunt caps, Prelim+) I am sure that they will be aware that, in the event they fall on their head, their strapless hunt cap will not offer protection.

The fact of the matter is that UL juniors want to "look the part," and, as most sucessful riders (both UL and juniors) compete in hunt caps, many feel the need to as well. I completely agree with the statement that one's trainer can influence a young student.

So do people riding in hunt caps, ULR and JR/YR, know that they're taking a risk? I would believe that in most occasions, yes. Do they seem to care? No. They are most likely either extremely confident in their horse as well as their own riding abilities, or worried about their image. Perhaps a mixture of both. ;)

[J Swan]

That is a different argument entirely.

Guess I'm showing my age... :sigh:

I never paid attention to the rules on attire for juniors; I'm a bit shocked. I'll get over it.

But - the helmet issue would not be an issue if juniors were not permitted to wear attire reserved for adults (traditionally) If the rules were a bit more old fashioned - the hunt cap style helmet would be the most appropriate headgear. Just a thought - I have no dog in this fight.

I've still not seen one person wearing the bowler that Troxel came out with. It's an approved helmet - but it appears that it hasn't caught on. That would be an option. I guess.

[deltawave]

I think you are not giving juniors credit of even a smidgen of intelligence with this statement.

Yes, but . . .

The fact of the matter is that UL juniors want to "look the part," and, as most sucessful riders (both UL and juniors) compete in hunt caps, many feel the need to as well. I completely agree with the statement that one's trainer can influence a young student.

So do people riding in hunt caps, ULR and JR/YR, know that they're taking a risk? I would believe that in most occasions, yes. Do they seem to care? No.

Sorry, but if the shoe fits. . . IMO someone who takes unnecessary risks with their brain just to "look a part" or be like their (idiotic, irresponsible) trainer doesn't deserve to be credited with a "smidgen of intelligence". Call me a helmet Nazi.

[artienallie]

That would be an interesting poll:

How many people's most serious fall/ injury occured in the dressage ring?

I am missing an entire day of my life from asking for a simple extended trot across the diagonal. And yes I was wearing an approved helmet, and it was cracked from ear to ear. Without it, the Dr said there was no way I would have lived.

Almost the exact same story here. My approved XC helmet was almost split in two. However, I don't know exactly what happened, since I don't remember that ride, that day, the day before, or the day after. :sigh:

[fitzwilliam]

Not that I am a fan of spending money to impress people but notice the trend in H/J world - the big name adults started wearing GPAs ($300 +) and all the JRs followed suit. I figure at least they are spending their money on good protective gear that luckily became the "in thing", bling and all. Of course they often have their helmet straps hanging off the chins - my pet peeve for approved helmet wearers. I don't think logical arguments impress most teens and many adults but they seem to like to imitate the ULR/BNTs. Hey whatever works toward a good cause. The last time I rode without a helmet was hopping on (from a bank) on my trusty been there, done that horse. No he didn't spook, I just had too much personal impulsion and slid right over his back and landed on the summer sunbaked dirt road. Big head bang and the horse was giving me the "what are you doing down there, dumb person" look. Never again, helmet every time I get on a horse, no matter what.

[tbgurl]

I have to say that I was one of those who didn't normally wear a helmet on the flat (and yes I've fallen off while schooling dressage). But since I've become a mom I wear my approved helmet every time I climb on. I didn't think much of the risk to myself before, but now that I'm responsible for another life I'm more careful. I don't want to leave my DH a single dad.

And I did have a role model growing up who didn't wear helmets except when she had to. I'm sure that probably rubbed off on me. I'm kind of wrestling internally about that, too, since when DH rides he doesn't wear a helmet (he rides western and refuses to wear one) and I know my son is going see that as he grows up. I can make my son wear a helmet when he gets on a horse for only so long, but then what? I just hope I can impress upon him how important it is to protect his head, but he'll probably be a little western dude, too, and want to be just like daddy. :confused:

[Jazzy Lady]

I was suprised that people who were staying at Longwood for the winter would wear baseball caps around a property that didn't belong to them. That all changed when one of the boarders, a dressage rider on her steady horse, was air lifted out of the feild after her horse tripped and fell down. She was out cold for about 10 minutes, had a serious concussion and was wearing an approved helmet.

I wear a hunt cap at shows. I have worn my top hat twice. When I do a dressage lesson I sometimes wear my huntcap (depending on my mood). Yes I know the risk. My approved helmet has saved my life a couple of times. I am very diligent about replacing it. But I love my huntcap, and yes, I like the way it looks. Although it isn't my favourite... my GR8 is. :D

[throwurheart]

I'm kind of wrestling internally about that, too, since when DH rides he doesn't wear a helmet (he rides western and refuses to wear one) and I know my son is going see that as he grows up. I can make my son wear a helmet when he gets on a horse for only so long, but then what? I just hope I can impress upon him how important it is to protect his head, but he'll probably be a little western dude, too, and want to be just like daddy. :confused:

Get a copy of the video "Every Time, Every Ride" - here's the link:

http://www.riding-instructor.com/shop/

my dear SO is a longtime cowboy, very manly man, scoffed at wearing a helmet. He humored me early in our relationship and watched this video. Has not ridden without his CO J3 since. We've gone on group western rides and he still puts it on, taking off his exceptionally nice cowboy hat to do it. Feels silly, but loves his brain.

The video has a reining trainer on there who lost some mobility and about 60 IQ points riding a well-trained horse. Heartbreaking story. I'm not even sure there are any jumping stories on there, I think they're all pleasure, western, basic English.

I live in a place where rank novices buy horses themselves (meaning many are NOT beginner horses and the riders don't take lessons) and wander around the trails, crossing paved roads, riding next to paved roads. Maybe 1/4 of them wear helmets. At least most of them don't break out of a walk.

To the OP's point... I agree, I think a little less of the ULRs who don't wear approved helmets all the time. Just a little, because I respect their right to choose, but I think it's a shame they don't set a better example. And for those who talk students into wearing a hunt cap through persuasion or ridicule? GAH! Too small minded to NEED a helmet!

[Painted Wings]

It is part of my every day riding attire and if I forget to put it on I get the feeling that something is wrong.

My pet peeve is that I do occaisionally see people competing with faded helmets that look to be obviously not approved. I have yet to ever see a TD check one of these people. I was glad to hear that someone had experienced it but I see that rule broken way too many times.

Sometimes it's a lack of awareness. One of my friends was one of the culprits. I mentioned to her that her helmet was not legal. Yes she should know the rules better but she had no idea. From then on she wore an approved helmet.

The TDs really need to crack down on this in the jumping phase. I think the general thought is "well they've been told" and if they violate the rules it's not our fault.

[Janet]

Guess I'm showing my age... :sigh:

...

But - the helmet issue would not be an issue if juniors were not permitted to wear attire reserved for adults (traditionally) If the rules were a bit more old fashioned - the hunt cap style helmet would be the most appropriate headgear. Just a thought - I have no dog in this fight. Still an issue with short jackets for juniors.

My awareness of this issue came from a trainer who wanted a junior student to replace an approved helmet with an unapproved "hunt cap".

[bornfreenowexpensive]

Do they seem to care? No. They are most likely either extremely confident in their horse as well as their own riding abilities, or worried about their image. Perhaps a mixture of both. ;)


That would be me .... and I would admit it. Would I let my child (if I had one) do as I do....NOPE....and suspect that any such child would be smarter then me and probably nagg me to put on my approved helmet. But I'm not so stupid as to do it when jumping, intentionally riding at speed or at all when conditions may be different for that typically sane horse.

[eventer80]

My SO was a Health and Safety engineer at a large oil company and his job was to educate the oil field workers on safety protocol. It amazed him how these people valued convienience over health. Is the convienience of not going to the truck to get gloves worth a finger? What price is a limb worth? What price is your life worth?

So many of our riders are living healthy lives; going to see the doctor for regular check ups, eating healthy, stopping smoking, etc......but to what end if that rider doesn't wear a helmet?All of that extra time and effort trying to protect themselves to potentially be derailed by something that cost as little as 35.00 and takes an extra 30 seconds to put on.

No one rides out expecting to get in a life changing accident.

I live in Houston where the heat and humidity can make even the extra weight of a helmet can seem daunting, but I will be ready when my old steady horse falls down on a hack. I won't have to burden my family and friends with taking care of me just because I was too selfish not to wear a helmet.

[JustTheTicket]

I'm going to throw my opinion into the ring here. I'm by no means a "helmet nazi" and I personally don't wear one (except for here at school, where its required). However, when I jump, which I don't do much anymore, I will wear a helmet. There's a much higher risk of falling when jumping, and it just makes sense to wear a helmet. It's not that awkward, or hot, or whatever other excuse you could come up with. I also think that kids/youth should be wearing a helmet. If it instills the habit of helmet wearing into them, then great! That's what we want. If they choose to stop wearing one after they age out, then its their choice, and whatever happens, happens.
On the other hand, when I ride on the flat, I chose not to wear a helmet. Again, I know the risks, but I still chose not to wear it. I grew up riding saddlebreds, and in that discipline its just not all that common to put on a helmet, even on the kids.
My roommate, who rides QHs/paints will only ride in a hunt cap. We've had a few discussions about why they don't just switch over and required all riders to wear a helmet, like USET requires. She said that its a matter of respect from top trainers. Basically if they see you riding with a helmet, they won't hire you.
So, that was kind of rambling and all other the place (sorry :lol:)

[YRAP Mom]

A friend who was strictly a dressage rider was riding in her indoor by herself and, as usual, without a helmet. She was found dead by one of her boarders. Cause of death was head trauma. It can happen anywhere, any time!

[deltawave]

She said that its a matter of respect from top trainers. Basically if they see you riding with a helmet, they won't hire you.

That makes me want to throw up. :no:

[DKL]

I get genuinely annoyed when I see people riding without helmets. I want to yell at them, "don't you know how dangerous that is and how stupid you're being?!" I don't care how good you are or how obedient your horse is--SHIT HAPPENS. My respect for a rider essentially disappears when they ride helmet-less. They can't be THAT good or THAT knowledgeable if they don't know that horses are horses and can be potentially deadly.

I haven't posted in so long and I don't event but my husband does. I have always preached about the importance of wearing a helmet as it is not just for the rider BUT for the family's sake that you leave behind to take care of you after your become head injured. Wow that sounds a bit dramatic…sorry. I think 'some' riders think "if it is my time to go so be it" but the actuality is that they will most likely live but be head injured or worse. I worked in an acute head injury locked facility for years and that place formed my opinion (and many nightmares as well) of how one's actions (sustained injury that could have been prevented) leave you BUT again how your family has to care for you for the rest of your life. Sorry for the vent but this stuff is serious.

So to sum up can someone tell me the very best helmet to buy for my husband(he has one but not sure it is approved)? I am assuming a GPA helmet? He always wears one while training or even trail riding as they grew up wearing them in Europe. Even his dear old wild 77 year old father who still hunts every day and breeds his RID in hand wears a helmet...It is just part of the routine.

[YRAP Mom]

I've sent you a message about helmets!

[JustTheTicket]

That makes me want to throw up. :no:

Me too. I think its absolutely ridiculous that the QH world seems to be so shallow that you can't wear a helmet even it you wanted to.

[HunterJumperLuv]

Even flatting you can have a serious injury. I won't get on a horse without a helmet on. Even with an approved helmet, and a "good" horse, you can still get injured. While flatting one day in a lesson, the horse i was on tripped and fell ass over teakettle. No spook, no buck, no disobediance, just an accident. Even with a helmet on, I sustained a concussion and had to go to the hospital to get xrays on my neck. It doesnt have to be a jumping thing. You can get hurt flatting. Wear a helmet. Save your life. Be your own advocate.

[Dance_To_Oblivion]

However I trust my horse enough and will take the risk.

I used to ride a wonderful Clyde/Tb gelding that I would trust with an infant, we were on a grass SJ course which was a little slick and poor guy fell right over on his side because he just couldn't keep his feet under him! I went up in the air and landed directly on my head...my doctor said it was a VERY good thing I had my helmet on.

Wearing a helmet should have NOTHING to do with trust, because trust is not the only factor in the equation that can lead to traumatic head injuries.

[Sannois]

Tack up put on helmet and ride! The life you save may be your own.
I have a friend who is an excellent rider, she wears hers anytime she is AROUND the horses. Working with babies or greenies even on the ground.
Funny She is originally from england, and you see alot of folks in England wearing them even just grooming or working at the barn. I watch a program on The animal planet that has alot of horse related stories and the riders and trainers are ALWAYS wearing helmets even when unmounted.
Put the baseball cap on to cover the hat head hair Afterwards! ;) Besides I think helmets look professional, they complete the picture. Of course I always ride in breeches and boots and I dont even compete anymore! :yes:

[c_expresso]

I used to ride a wonderful Clyde/Tb gelding that I would trust with an infant, we were on a grass SJ course which was a little slick and poor guy fell right over on his side because he just couldn't keep his feet under him! I went up in the air and landed directly on my head...my doctor said it was a VERY good thing I had my helmet on.

Wearing a helmet should have NOTHING to do with trust, because trust is not the only factor in the equation that can lead to traumatic head injuries.

Like I said, I know the risks and choose to wear a hunt cap anyway, for dressage at shows only.

[enjoytheride]

Any news on a rule change to allow helmets while wearing a shadbelly?

[Janet]

Any news on a rule change to allow helmets while wearing a shadbelly?
I don't think a rule change is needed.

b. Horse Trials (Intermediate and Advanced)—Two Day & Three Day Events. As above
except no tweed coat. When tails are worn: Top Hat—black or dark blue; Shirt—stock
with pin; Gloves (required)—white or dark color; Britches—as above; Boots—preferably
black dress or a black full grain leather leg piece and matching leather boot. Chaps and
half-chaps are not allowed. Members of armed and police forces, service dress with
gloves, regulation headgear and spurs in accordance with EV113. Protective headgear
may be worn without penalty. (See General Rules, GR801)

[enjoytheride]

Thanks!

Now for straight dressage the rule is different, what about a rule change for this? Can you wear a shadbelly below fourth level? I SWEAR I saw someone riding a 1st level test in a shadbelly and a bowler hat thingy (not a technical term) at a schooling show.

2. For all tests above Fourth Level, the dress
code is: a dark tailcoat with top hat, or a dark
jacket with a bowler hat or hunt cap, and white
or light colored breeches, stock or tie, gloves,
and black riding boots. Spurs are mandatory for
FEI tests (except as noted above under Art.
1920.1). (See Art. 1920.8)

[amastrike]

Meh. If someone is foolish enough to ride without a helmet, I can't say I'll be too upset if they have a serious/fatal accident.

[Janet]

Thanks!

Now for straight dressage the rule is different, what about a rule change for this? Can you wear a shadbelly below fourth level? I SWEAR I saw someone riding a 1st level test in a shadbelly and a bowler hat thingy (not a technical term) at a schooling show.

2. For all tests above Fourth Level, the dress
code is: a dark tailcoat with top hat, or a dark
jacket with a bowler hat or hunt cap, and white
or light colored breeches, stock or tie, gloves,
and black riding boots. Spurs are mandatory for
FEI tests (except as noted above under Art.
1920.1). (See Art. 1920.8)

The way I read it, it doesn't say (either in the DR rules, or in GR 801) that Dressage is exempt. So GR 801.4 applies to dressage as much as all the other discipines4. Any exhibitor may wear protective headgear (ASTM/SEI) and/or a protective safety vest,
specifically designed for use in equestrian sport in any division or class without penalty from
the judge. The Federation recommends that the vest meet or surpass the current ASTM
standard or be certified by the Safety Equipment Institute. BOD 6/26/07 Effective 12/1/07

[c_expresso]

Meh. If someone is foolish enough to ride without a helmet, I can't say I'll be too upset if they have a serious/fatal accident.

So you aren't upset about Darren's wreck? He has done dressage without a helmet many times.