HAT ADVICE
It’s potentially a life-saving piece of kit, but probably something you take for granted. Allison Lowther investigates the vigorous testing your riding hat goes through to ensure it protects you when you need it
The vigorous and vital testing your riding hat goes through
YOUR HORSE IS suited and booted, so just fasten your riding hat and you’re ready for the off. Every time you ride you put your trust in this essential piece of safety kit to protect you should you fall off, while wearing your hat around the stable yard can help protect you from flying hooves and other hazards. But have you ever stopped to consider what goes into designing a riding hat and the strict tests they are required to pass?
Your riding hat’s role
We all know riding is a high-risk sport with the potential for serious injury in the event of a fall. Any injury should be lessened by the fact that you’re wearing a hat, but it’s important to realise they aren’t designed to withstand impacts. A riding hat’s purpose is to lessen the severity of head injuries, or prevent them, by reducing the amount of force your skull is subjected to. “No hat manufacturer claims their product will prevent all injuries,” explains Gatehouse’s technical and safety product advisor, Paul Varnsverry. “There will always be circumstances which will be beyond the limitations of the product’s design specification.” Put simply, you want a hat that’s light and comfortable to wear, but one that will protect you should the worst happen. The reality is that hat manufacturers have to get as close as possible to those requirements, within the constraints of the materials and technology currently available.