Attention Dressage Riders: New Equine Canada Rule regarding Helmets

ARTICLE E 4.0 SAFETY HEADGEAR [effective May 1, 2011]

1. ASTM/SEI or BSI approved headgear must be worn by all riders
showing Fourth Level and below, regardless of age, when mounted on
the competition grounds at EC Bronze, Silver and Gold competitions.

2. ASTM/SEI or BSI approved headgear must be worn by all noncompeting
riders mounted on horses entered in classes at Fourth Level
or below in EC Bronze, Silver and Gold competitions.

3. All riders of any age while on non-competing horses must wear
protective headgear at all times while mounted on the competition
grounds.

4. The penalty for contravening 4.0.1 is elimination.

5. Non-competing riders who contravene 4.0.2 and/or 4.0.3 will be
instructed to dismount until wearing an ASTM/SEI or BSI approved
helmet.

Note: At the tack check which follows the test, the steward may ask the
rider to dismount so that the helmet may be inspected for the ASTM/SEI or
BSI label.

You Should Buy a New Helmet When...

2) After a fall in which you hit your head.  Even if there is no apparent damage to the helmet, it should probably be inspected by the manufacturer - many companies will offer a lower price to replace a helmet damaged in a fall. Similarly, if you notice a soft spot or dent in your helmet, you should get it looked at.

3) The fit of the helmet is no longer snug or when it becomes uncomfortable. As children grow, and adults lose or gain weight - or even significantly change their hair style - helmets should always fit correctly. Sometimes the addition of a bit of foam padding inside the helmet can be a temporary fix, but it should be viewed as just that - temporary.

4) Every 2-5 years. Regardless of whether you have fallen or not, sweat, dirt, heat and rain can all affect the integrity of the harness connections, if nothing else. Also, standards are frequently upgraded and helmets improved in their safety levels, appearance, and comfort.

Tipperary 'Sportage'

Helmet-Buying Tips

2) Try on several models in your price range - it may surprise you that one model from company X feels great, while another from the same company fits quite differently.

3) The brim of the helmet should be horizontal - the helmet should not be tipping up or down when viewed from the side - and it must be snug enough (without putting pressure in a particular area) that your eyebrows move when you gently wiggle the brim up and down with your hand.

4) Wear your hair as you will when riding. If you show with your hair up, but want to school with it down, you may need two different helmets in order for them to fit correctly and safely.

5) Wear the helmet around the store for a few minutes - it should get more comfortable/less noticeable if it is a really a good fit.