What types of riding hats are there?
Riding hats are an indispensable part of both the equestrian and the driving scene. High-quality, protective headgear is essential for one’s own safety. Anyone who wants to buy a new riding hat is confronted with a wide range of products, countless recommendations and many details.
So which riding hat is the right one for me? In this summary, we will introduce you to the different types of riding hats and their purposes.
Hard Shell Riding Hats
Hard shell riding hats are characterised by an ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) outer shell that is bonded directly to the EPS inner shell in a multi-stage manufacturing process. The result is a riding hat with a very impact-resistant, durable outer shell and a shock-absorbing and heat-insulating inner shell.
Ventilation and temperature regulation are provided by integrated ventilation systems.
The weight of hard shell riding hats is greater than that of in-mold riding hats.
Weight: 400 – 500 g
Impact resistance: *****
In-Mold Riding Hats
A riding hat manufactured using In-Mold technology combines maximum impact resistance with minimal weight. In the production of an In-Mold riding hat, the expanded polystyrene (EPS) inner layer is foamed and welded directly into the thin polycarbonate (PC) outer shell within one manufacturing step. The resulting hat construction is extremely stable, as the outer shell and inner layer are fully bonded together.
To minimise the weight of the riding hat, the outer shell is kept intentionally very thin. Due to this, the outer shell is more sensitive and shows scratches more quickly than with hard-shell riding hats. This design is not only used for riding hats, but also for bicycle, climbing or ski helmets.
Weight: 400 – 500 g
Impact resistance: *****
Hybrid Riding Hats
The innovative combination of lightweight In-mold construction with the extremely impact-resistant hard shell outer combines the advantages of both designs.
The upper head section of the hybrid riding hat is made of a robust hard shell construction and is complemented in the lower segment by an In-mold outer layer. Integrated ventilation systems, which can vary in design and positioning depending on the model and riding hat manufacturer, ensure pleasant ventilation both in high temperatures and during physical activity.
Weight: 300 – 400 g
Impact resistance: ****
Eventing Riding Hats
In the competitive sport of eventing, both an all-terrain riding hat and a safety jacket are obligatory. Due to the severity of a fall, a medical card with all relevant information for medical first aid is also worn nowadays. The robust construction as well as the absence of a fixed visor, which can lead to injuries under certain circumstances, distinguish riding hats that are especially made for the military or for eventing. A riding hat with a brim, which is available in various colours, also acts as a sun visor.
Ventilation slits ensure optimum air circulation and keep your head cool when the going gets tough in training or at the competition.
Weight: 300 – 400 g
Impact resistance: ****
Children’s Riding Hats
A riding hat for children is part of the basic equipment, along with riding breeches, riding shoes and riding gloves. Just like safety jackets or back protectors, the riding hat serves to protect against injuries in case of a fall or an accident. In particular, the danger of being struck by hooves should not be underestimated when handling a horse.
To ensure that children are not only safe but also comfortable when riding, a children’s riding hat should be shock-absorbent, impact-resistant and equipped with a well-designed ventilation system. Regardless of model and manufacturer, children’s riding hats can be worn all year round. Here you can find out what to look for when buying a riding hat especially for children, how to determine the right size of a riding hat and what features it should have.
Weight: 300 – 400 g
Impact resistance: ****
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