A helmet is an important piece of equipment if you’re driving – no matter your degree or self-discipline. Selecting from the finest driving hats to fit your wants is not going to solely make it easier to keep away from head accidents, however it would mean you can carry out at your finest, no matter your chosen self-discipline. It may be tough to know which is the very best driving hat for you as there are such a lot of trendy choices that embrace an unlimited quantity of know-how throughout very totally different value factors.
When ought to I change my driving hat?
Your hat ought to all the time get replaced if it has suffered any kind of impression. Though it might seem wonderful from the skin, its the within that’s vital. For that reason, shopping for hats second hand just isn’t really useful. Your hat additionally wants changing if it’s greater than two to 3 previous as a result of the protecting liner and internal padding may have begun to deteriorate with publicity to warmth and repeated use.
To assist your hat final so long as doable, retailer it in a cool setting – keep away from leaving it within the automotive. Retaining it in a protecting hat bag is a perfect option to hold it cushioned and away from robust daylight.
In the event you compete, you’ll additionally have to control the hat requirements which are accepted by your governing physique – if these change, then chances are you’ll have to spend money on a brand new, rule-compliant hat.
How to decide on the very best driving hat for you
The very first thing to think about when selecting the very best helmet for you is the sort – when you compete, every self-discipline has its personal guidelines for what helmets might be worn, which incorporates minimal hat requirements for competitors necessities, and typically model (for instance, for cross-country you’ll want a hat with no mounted peak) and color.
Then you must take into consideration how a lot safety every helmet provides you – totally different security requirements take a look at for various kinds of accidents – it’s finest to decide on a helmet with as many security requirements as doable.
It’s additionally smart to think about what options every helmet has that improve the consolation or look – these may embrace detachable headbands, air flow techniques, extensive peaks, MIPS know-how or being vegan pleasant.The model and end of a helmet can mean you can present your persona. As of late you’ll find all the pieces from probably the most conventional velvet to totally customised sparkle.
When contemplating price range, all the time purchase the very best you’ll be able to afford, and keep in mind that the most costly won’t be the very best. Within the UK, helmets made to suit 55cm and under (normally youngster sizes) are VAT free. In the event you’re on a decent price range, we’ve rounded up the finest driving hats beneath £100.
Lastly, it’s actually vital to make certain that your helmet is an efficient match. Horse & Hound strongly advises that you simply get your hat fitted by a BETA-trained skilled earlier than making a purchase order – the identical recommendation goes for physique protectors, too. Discover out in case your native tack store can present this service right here.
Finest driving hats – peaked helmets
Charles Owen Luna
Colors: Black gloss, black matte or midnight | Sizes: 52–61cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £220 |
The Luna encompasses a air flow system beneath the ring along with a washable headband. There’s additionally the choice to have a large peak that helps enhance imaginative and prescient in any climate.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Shires Karben Avena
Colors: Black, navy or gray | Sizes: 53–61cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark) | RRP: £94.99 |
This helmet has clean outer with engaging shiny accents and good trims. It has a micro-adjustable dial system, entrance and rear air vents, a thermoregulating mesh liner and wicking headband.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, naylors.com or rideawaystore.com
Uvex Suxxeed Blaze
Colors: Black, navy or burgundy | Sizes: XS–S, S or M–L | Requirements: VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £325.50 |
With a shiny lacquer end, glitter insert and chrome-plated body, this adjustable helmet is absolutely eye-catching. It’s ventilated and breathable, with a washable internal lining. It makes use of a 3D IAS system to vary the peak and width for probably the most exact match, and the adjustable straps are manufactured from a top quality artificial leather-based.
Within the UK? View now at equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Charles Owen Hampton
Colors: Black, navy, brown, bottle inexperienced or gray | Sizes: 52–65cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £197 |
This elegant and conventional velvet-covered hat is ideal for each the competitors enviornment and hunt discipline. It has a gentle but sturdy tan harness, and encompasses a satin lining and luxurious headband. It has a low-profile model, is accessible in a alternative of 5 colors and meets a number of security requirements.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or equus.co.uk
Champion Air-Tech Deluxe
Colors: Black metallic, navy metallic, oyster metallic, ruby metallic or black silk | Sizes: S, M or L (52–61cm) | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £148 |
This low-profile helmet is made with a light-weight injection-moulded ABS shell, which makes it comfy with out compromising on security. It options triple-mesh venting for superior airflow, a detachable crown-comfort padded, wicking lining. It makes use of a dial-fit system for full sizing adjustability and is accessible with metallic or silk paint finishes.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Gatehouse Ciana
Colors: Matt black, matt black/gloss trim, matt navy/gloss trim, suedette navy/glitter trim or suedette black/glitter trim | Sizes: 52–62cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £192 |
This trendy and light-weight driving hat has a fast drying, wicking padded liner that may be eliminated for laundry. Comes with a padded storage bag.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or rideawaystore.com
Whitaker New Rider Technology Helmet
Colors: Black or navy | Sizes: XS–L | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £95 |
This adjustable helmet has a clean, matte impact outer and two entrance vents. It additionally has a breathable Coolmax lining, which is detachable and machine cleanable.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, gooutdoors.co.uk or blacks.co.uk
Gatehouse Conquest MKII
Colors: Black/rose gold, navy/rose gold, matt black or matt navy | Sizes: 54–62cm | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £166.66 |
This trendy and light-weight helmet has a versatile peak and is properly ventilated with a quick-drying, wicking, padded and detachable liner. It is available in a padded storage bag and you should purchase substitute liners.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
One Ok Defender Air Glitter
Colors: Black or navy | Sizes: 51–62cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: £275 |
This driving hat options real Swarovski crystals and glitter element that can assist you stand out from the group. It may be adjusted with an air pump system – the three hidden air pockets within the liner are inflated by miserable its hid air pump till you get the suit you need. It additionally encompasses a quick-dry, anti-microbial liner, a number of air vents and a matte polycarbonate outer shell.
Within the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Uvex Exxential II MIPS
Colors: Black | Sizes: XS–XL | Requirements: VG1 | RRP: £149.95 |
This helmet combines sportiness, local weather management and security. It brings an replace to the Uvex Exxential II with the introduction of MIPS know-how, which is designed to additional shield the mind in opposition to rotational actions within the occasion of an accident.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or equus.co.uk
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Charles Owen Halo
Colors: Black or midnight in gloss or matt | Sizes: 52–61cm normal or 55–59cm spherical | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £370.50 |
This design advantages from 360° air flow beneath the halo ring, which is available in a alternative of rose gold, platinum, black gloss or black matte. It has a washable headband with padded neck assist, and the liner is anti-microbial. It fastens with a sustainably sourced leather-based harness and metallic buckle. A large peak (Halo Luxe) is accessible to enhance imaginative and prescient in all-weathers and MIPS know-how is one other non-compulsory improve.
Within the UK? View now at rideawaystore.com
Rhinegold Reflective Professional
Colors: Black or navy | Sizes: 6⅜–7¼ | Requirements: PAS015:2011 | RRP: From £69.95 |
This historically styled ventilated hat encompasses a detachable, washable liner with a gentle Coolmax-lined harness. The Dayglo reflective piping presents a small quantity of elevated visibility.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Kask Kooki Woman
Colors: Black or navy, in a matt or shine end | Sizes: 53–63cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: £306 |
This helmet is described as good for the present ring and education – an on a regular basis helmet that can match each outfit. It consists of two shells and has a breathable and antibacterial internal padding. It additionally options entrance and rear air flow and a gentle chin strap.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Finest driving hats – jockey skulls
Charles Owen Professional II Plus
Colors: Black, navy, silver or rose gold | Sizes: 52–65cm normal or 56–59cm spherical | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £162 |
This helmet is the one triple-standard cranium cap with a detachable cup headband. It options entrance and rear air flow, a sized liner for an in depth, customised match, and a gentle technical harness.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, naylors.com or sportsdirect.com
Within the US? View now at amazon.com
Shires Karben Junior Cranium Cap
Colors: Black or gray | Sizes: 53–62cm | Requirements: PAS 015 (with Kitemark) | RRP: £61.99 |
This hat has 16 air flow holes and mesh sections within the padded lining for enhanced local weather management. The four-point adjustable harness is created from hard-wearing, gentle webbing with a gentle cowl on the chin strap.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or ebay.co.uk
Gatehouse HS1-V
Colors: Anthracite gray or matt black | Sizes: 52–62cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, SNELL E2016 | RRP: From £230
That is an replace to the favored HS1 jockey cranium with the addition of vents to provide the good thing about air circulation, which helps to maintain your head cool. It encompasses a gentle four-point padded harness with an antibacterial lining. This hat comes with a wise padded storage bag.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Charles Owen 4Star
Colors: Silver, black or navy | Sizes: 54–62cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, PAS 015 (with Kitemark), SNELL E2016, VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: £230 |
This cranium is licensed to 4 prime worldwide security requirements. It has 10 air flow slots and the choice of a heat-reflective silver end. It additionally comes with a ventilated silk.
Within the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, naylors.com or ebay.co.uk
Champion Revolve Vent-Air MIPS Jockey Cranium
Colors: Black | Sizes: 6¼–7¾ | Requirements: PAS015:2011 (with Kitemark), ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: From £208 |
An improve to the Champion Revolve Vent-Air cranium, this contemporary, light-weight helmet incorporates MIPS, which is the mind safety system that provides added safety in opposition to angular impression and damaging rotational forces. This helmet presents good air flow and luxury because of the central air flow strip and detachable crown consolation padding in breathable microfiber. It has a sturdy painted acrylic and sand end that helps to forestall you silk slipping. It additionally encompasses a four-point gentle leather-based harness with rear lacing adjustment.
Within the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk
Uvex Perfexxion II XC
Colors: Black | Sizes: XS/S, S/M, M/L or L/XL | Requirements: VG1 (with Kitemark) | RRP: From £260 |
This adjustable cranium has a slim, light-weight and ergonomic design, whereas the outer shell is prolonged over the neck for added safety and the ponytail cut-out is a handy characteristic. The design contains dynamic air flow for optimum local weather administration in addition to washable liner pads.
Within the UK? View now at equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Kask Dogma XC
Colors: Black or black/silver | Sizes: 50–63cm | Requirements: ASTM F1163, VG1 | RRP: £453
This helmet contains all of the technical and design options which are within the Dogma Pure Shine Chrome, together with the specialised air flow and match techniques, however with out the height. It stands out with a clean matt-look body.
Within the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk
What are the present driving hat security requirements?
There are 5 principal security requirements which are recognised internationally. All driving hats and jockey skulls ought to conform to one in all these requirements and bear the CE mark. When figuring out helmet security, every of the person requirements have their very own standards and assessments that place totally different emphasis on numerous sorts of harm. For instance, they may study how a lot of the top a helmet covers, how a rider falls and onto what kind of floor, how a helmet strikes, and the way extreme an harm riders can anticipate to obtain from that fall, however all in a barely totally different means and to totally different extents.
- VG1 01.040 (2014-12) – This was launched as an interim specification when the EN 1384 was withdrawn. It calls for the helmet passes three impression assessments.
- PAS 015 (1998 or 2011) – PAS stands for product approval specs, that are developed by the BSI. The 2011 normal is extra demanding than the 1998, which is able to most likely be phased out of self-discipline guidelines within the subsequent couple of years. It contains 4 totally different impression assessments.
- ASTM F1163 (2004a or 04a onwards) – This American normal is much like PAS 015:1998 – it contains two impression assessments, however doesn’t have a crushing or penetration take a look at.
- SNELL E2016 – This normal was developed within the US and is probably the most rigorous with 5 totally different assessments. It contains all points of ASTM and PAS 015 however is examined with a sharper horseshoe anvil (to duplicate a kick or impression with a pointy floor), increased impacts and a further hemispherical anvil (to signify an uneven however not sharp floor, akin to a tree, fence or cobbled floor).
- AS/NZS 3838 (2006 onwards) – This Australasian normal is much like the EN 1384, though additionally contains the hazard anvil take a look at from the PAS 015.
What’s the distinction between hat requirements and high quality marks?
High quality marks, such because the British Kitemark, present that the necessities of certification have been met and the producer has complied with rules. In case your hat additionally bears one in all these marks it tells that the producer is repeatedly and independently monitored to make sure that they proceed to make hats to a excessive normal. High quality symbols embrace…
- Kitemark – That is the registered trademark of the British Requirements Institute. It signifies that an organization complies with a rigorous system of regulation and testing, together with common testing of random samples. For instance, one in all each 200 helmets from a batch is checked earlier than they may subject an approval label. If the helmets don’t go the usual, then your entire batch have to be destroyed. It may be utilized to PAS 015 and VG1-compliant helmets.
- IC mark – This high quality mark is operated by Inspec and utilized to PAS 015 and VG1-compliant helmets.
- SEI mark – The Security Tools Institute is the American equal of the Kitemark for ASTM normal hats.
- SAI International – This Australian high quality assurance scheme can also be much like the British Kitemark.
The CE mark is neither a high quality mark or a typical, however a compulsory declaration beneath EU regulation that reveals a producer complies with important necessities.
How ought to a driving hat match?
At Horse & Hound we strongly advise that you simply get your hat fitted by a BETA-trained skilled earlier than making a purchase order. Discover out in case your native tack store can present this service right here.
A well-fitting hat ought to sit firmly in your head – simply above your eyebrows and ears. It ought to match snuggly all the best way round your head, with no strain factors on the temples. In the event you really feel strain in your temples if you flex your jaw, this means that the helmet is simply too tight. When fastening your helmet, it’s vital to not overlook the a part of the harness that matches across the again of your neck. This strap helps to forestall your hat tipping forwards on to your nostril. Some harnesses, notably these with numerous leather-based and lacing, are tougher to lock, however a skilled fitter at your native tack store will probably be in a position that can assist you when you take your hat in.
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Credit score: Alamy
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