The importance of choosing the right riding hat
Let’s be honest – buying a new riding hat isn’t as fun as choosing a new saddle pad or picking the perfect show jacket. But when it comes to protecting what’s most important (yes, that beautiful brain of yours), nothing even comes close. The right riding helmet could literally be the difference between walking away from a fall or ending up in A&E.
Charles Owen have spent over a century making hats that do exactly that—without compromising on comfort, style, or performance. But with so many options out there, how do you know which hat is right for you?
In the first of our three part series, we asked Charles Owen to share how to choose the right hat for you.
Start With Your Discipline
Dressage queen? Showjumping addict? Happy hacker?
Different disciplines demand different features in a riding hat. For example:
Eventers love our Pro II Plus, which offers top-level ventilation and triple-safety standards with a washable and replaceable cup headband.
Dressage riders often go for the Halo Luxe—sleek, sophisticated, and available in high-gloss finishes that turn heads in the arena.
Everyday riders and kids often prefer the YR8 or JS1 Pro—lightweight, fuss-free, and super comfy for long days at the yard.
Understand Your Head Shape
Not all heads are the same — and not all helmets are either.
Some of us have round heads, some more oval. Wearing a hat that doesn’t match your shape is the fastest route to “hat hair headache.” That’s why Charles Owen offers Round Fit options in models like the AYR8 Plus, Halo, and Luna.
Measure Like a Pro
Here’s how to get your correct size:
1. Grab a soft tape measure.
2. Wrap it around the widest part of your head—just above your eyebrows and ears and below your occipital ridge. (The bony part at the back of your head)
3. Read the cm measurement. That’s your helmet size!
Ventilation, Padding, and All the Extras
There’s no rule that says a safe helmet can’t be comfortable and stylish too.
Ventilation:
If you get hot easily, look for hats with ventilation like the Halo, Ayr8 Plus or Pro II Plus. https://www.charlesowen.com/?s=ventilation&post_type=product
Removable liners:
These are a game-changer. Keep things fresh and hygienic! https://www.charlesowen.com/product-tag/removable-liner https://www.charlesowen.com/products/replacement-liner
Peaks:
Some disciplines require fixed peaks; others need jockey skulls. We’ve got both. https://www.charlesowen.com/view/riding-helmets/premium https://www.charlesowen.com/view/riding-helmets/jockey-skull-caps
Safety First, Always
95% of Charles Owen helmet meet or exceed three international safety standards—not just one. That means triple-tested protection, giving you peace of mind every ride.
Some models (like the Halo or MS1 Pro) even come with MIPS® technology, which helps reduce rotational brain injury from angled falls.
Shop the full range of Charles Owen Mips helmets here → https://www.charlesowen.com/?s=mips&post_type=product
Ready to Ride Smarter?
Choosing the right helmet isn’t just about looks—it’s about protecting yourself, riding in comfort, and having confidence every time you tack up.
Need help finding your match? Call our friendly customer service team or pop into your local stockist for expert advice.
https://www.charlesowen.com/stockist
