Best Helmets for Western Riders

Here at Horse Nation, we’re committed to reminding our readers to mind their melons. So it’s only fair that we offer a review to help you make an informed decision when you go about buying your next — or your first! — helmet.

As a western rider, who has had several concussions and several jobs that require me to use my brain on a daily basis, I am passionate about helmet safety. So I wrote a review comparing several of the helmets on the market today. 

I have ranked six helmets from least expensive to most expensive and rated them based on comfort, style and rider preference. All the helmets listed meet ASTM/SEI safety guidelines.

The Troxel Fallon Taylor Performance Helmet
The helmet combines a low-profile shape with a light-weight design and a fun, colorful exterior. The helmet is well-ventilated with comfortable padding and a dial on the back that allows the wearer to adjust the fit to their head. The helmet comes in six sizes from XS to XL and can be further customized with the flip fold liner and the dialfit dial on the back of the helmet. It is ASTM/SEI rated. The helmet comes with a one-year limited warranty and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Some reviewers found that the helmet runs a bit small and recommended that people looking to buy this helmet, go up a size and then use the dial to customize their fit. One of the reviewer’s favorite features is the pinchless-clasp that is magnetic and easy to hook and unhook.

Price Point: $35 – $101

Interested in buying this helmet? You can purchase it here. 

Charles Owen JR8 Helmet
This is an elegant, economic helmet that satisfies safety standards in both the United States and in Europe. It has a low-profile light-weight design. It features water resistant microsuede and has a machine-washable liner. It features sizes in both oval and round head shapes to accommodate a variety of riders. According to many reviewers the helmet is stylish, but that it is a bit hot in warmer weather due to the minimal amount of ventilation.

Price Point: $188

Interested in buying this helmet? You can purchase it here. 

IRH IR4G Amara Suede Helmet
The IR4G helmet combines a modern low-profile design with a comfortable moisture-wicking liner. The purchase price of the helmet includes and extra machine-washable liner. The helmet is ASTM/ SEI safety rated. And reviewers state that the helmet is comfortable, not at all bulky, and that it fits true to size.

Price Point: $199 – $299

Interested in buying this helmet? You can purchase it here. 

Resistol RideSafe Western Helmet Hat
For equestrians who want to protect their heads, but also want the style of a cowboy hat, Resistol makes a Helmet Hat. This helmet is comprised of a felt or straw cowboy hat combined with the ASTM/SEI safety elements of a helmet. It comes in five sizes from XXS to L, it features a dial to allow for a custom fit, and the brim can be shaped just like the brim of a traditional cowboy hat. Many people who wear this helmet hat say that it looks great on and that it keeps the sun out of your eyes while you are riding.

Price Point: $129 – $249

Interested in buying this helmet? You can purchase it here. 

One K Defender Matte Helmet
The One K Defender Matte Helmet marries a high safety rating with a sleek, modern design. It has a tough, lightweight shell that is matte for easy cleaning. It comes in both oval and round shape for rider’s of varied head shapes. The liner is washable, anti-microbial and quick drying. It also has a fastex buckle to make it easy to take on and off. The helmet is well-ventilated and has an ASTM/ SEI rating. It comes in six sizes from XS to XXL. Riders who use the One K Defender Matte Helmet prize the varied shapes and the ventilation.

Price Point: $239

Interested in buying this helmet? You can purchase it here. 

Trauma Void EQ3 Smooth Shell Helmet
The Trauma Void EQ3 helmet is highly rated for safety with a Multi-Directional Impact Protection System. The helmet features ventilation and a washable COOLMAX liner. The shell is easy to clean and the chin-strap is made of PU leather. The helmet is not-bulky and is comfortable and looks good on, but some riders have trouble getting the helmet to fit the shape of their head.

Price Point: $249

Interested in buying this helmet? You can purchase it here.