Helmets and Western Riding
I'm feeling spunky today so I thought I'd take on a controversial topic - riding helmets and western riding. I know that whatever I say, I'll end up angering some, but I think the debate is healthy.
Traditionally, western riders have not ridden with helmets. Helmets don't fit particularly well with the style of western apparel and also seem a bit counter to the notions of freedom and adventure that are inherent in the western traditions.
The typical western horseback activities also have tended to not be quite as potentially dangerous as some of the English-style riding disciplines such as jumping, polo, steeplechase, and racing. Of course, rodeo events are another story…
When you consider the potential for serious injury, riding without a helmet seems like a foolish risk to take. There is an increasing number of western riders - especially new riders - who are riding with helmets. There are even western styled helmets now available that don't look quite as out of place. So, when asked, I always advise folks to ride with a helmet and to never feel embarrassed about it.
So, do I ride with a helmet? No, I don't. I know it's probably dumb, but after riding for over 20 years, it's tough to change. But I'm a pretty experienced rider and I only ride horses within my skill level. While that reduces the risk, I'm always very aware that any horse can be dangerous.
While there's no such thing as a "bomb-proof" or "dead-broke" horse (a good subject for another blog post), I've reduced my risk by having a steady, sensible horse that's matched well to my skill level. If I was to get on a very young horse, I'd definitely be strapping on a helmet.
What are your thoughts about helmets and western riding? Post a comment.
Filed under General Saddle Topics by Saddle Sense
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Comments on Helmets and Western Riding »
Could you please tell me who makes a western style helment? Also who sells them?
Irv Benzion
Irv,
Troxel is the leader in equestrian helmets and they now have models that they classify as "western," although the styling difference is rather subtle. While a hard cowboy hat seems to be what a lot folks want, and there is actually such a thing out there, they don't do the job of protecting your noggin the way a Troxel helmet will.
http://www.troxelhelmets.com
International used to make a western riding helmet. It looked like a large western hat. Inside was a helmet. I still have mine, and often other riders ask me where to get one. I love it for shade, keeping off the rain, and the western hat styling. I also have a newer "western" styled helmet…but don't like it half as much as the old style.Unfortunately, I haven't seen one in a catalog or on the internet for several years now. Why doesn't Troxel make one?
Regarding wearing a helmet…Twice in 15 years of riding, have I had a need for a helmet. The last time, as my head was hitting the rock at the bottom of a shallow river, and water was washing over my face, the thought that ran through my head was, "I'm glad I wore my helmet today." Why would anyone put style over protection?