Some decisions in riding should not be left to chance. Choosing a riding helmet is one of them. Not because a good helmet has to be expensive – but because in the decisive moment it is the only thing that counts.

This buyer's guide explains what matters when buying: standards, fit, brands, replacement and care.

Safety first – understanding the standards

Riding helmets are personal protective equipment and need CE conformity to be sold in the EU. They are tested to standards whose designations have changed several times in recent years. These are the terms you will come across most often:

• EN 1384 – the European standard for riding helmets, currently in the version EN 1384:2023. The current KASK riding helmets, for example, are tested to it.
• VG1 – the former European test basis (VG1 01.040 2014-12). You will still find it on older helmets and models.
• ASTM F1163 – the US standard, which some models are additionally tested to.
• PAS 015 – a British standard.

Which tests a particular helmet has actually passed is stated on the helmet itself and on its product page – and only there. A brand as a whole is never certified, only the individual model. If in doubt, ask, rather than relying on a statement about the brand.

Fit – the decisive factor

A helmet that does not fit does not protect. Fit matters more than the model, the colour or the price. Measure your head circumference with a tape measure just above the ears and horizontally across the forehead. For KASK, this value in centimetres corresponds to your helmet size.

A correctly fitting helmet sits firmly without pressing. It does not shift when you move your head. How the fitting works in detail is covered in our guide Choosing the right riding helmet size.

KASK

KASK is based in Carobbio degli Angeli near Bergamo in Italy. The Dogma and Star Lady riding helmets are built in the same way and differ mainly in the peak.

• Weight: according to KASK, 550 g for the Dogma Chrome and 580 g for the Star Lady Chrome
• Ventilation: two honeycomb grilles in the inner shell
• Fit: self-adjusting fit system at the nape – no adjustment dial, which is why the size has to be right
• Design: from classic black to versions with Swarovski crystals
• Testing: the current models to EN 1384:2023 and ASTM F1163; the valid details are on the respective product page

Our guide KASK Dogma or Star Lady? explains the difference between the two models. All KASK riding helmets at Equinista.

Antarès

Antarès comes from France. The helmets are understated in design and easy to match to a competition outfit.

• Design: understated lines, easy to match to a competition outfit
• Safety: the standards tested to are listed for each model on the product page
• Sizes: three shell sizes, with the exact size adjusted via the inner padding

All Antarès riding helmets at Equinista.

KASK or Antarès?

The decision is a matter of personal style – and of how the helmet fits your head. KASK adapts the helmet through a self-adjusting system at the nape, Antarès through the inner padding within a shell size. In both cases, try the helmet on. A helmet that convinces on paper has to fit on your head.

When should a riding helmet be replaced?

One point is clear: after every fall – even if the helmet looks undamaged on the outside. The protective structure inside can be compromised without it being visible.

Regardless of this, the materials age. How long a helmet may be used without a fall is set by the manufacturer – the figure differs by brand and model and is given in the instructions supplied with the helmet. More in our article How long does a riding helmet last?

Caring for your riding helmet

• Remove the inner padding regularly and wash it according to the manufacturer's instructions
• Clean the outer shell with a damp cloth – no harsh products
• Store somewhere cool and dry – not in direct sunlight or a hot car
• Never sit on the helmet or drop it

Your next riding helmet – at Equinista

At Equinista we stock riding helmets from KASK and Antarès – genuine products from an authorised retailer, with expert advice and a shop in Rostock where you can try the helmets on.

All riding helmets at Equinista – free shipping from €75 within Germany.