Riding helmets, do you wear one?  

If you take lessons at a reputable barn they should REQUIRE a CERTIFIED helmet. If this it not a requirement I would think twice about taking lessons at such a shoddy establishment. Riding without a helmet is idiocy.

Yes, please wear a helmet and once you can afford it a back protector. Here in England almost everyone wears a helmet or protective head gear and even though your horses are usually a little smaller, still you should wear one. When I was learning I had a bad fall just in a ménage onto the soft ground and my head came down with a crack that left me dizzy despite my helmet and could have been much worse without.

all the best urban

I haven't ridden in quite some time, but the last time I did, I think my helmet might have saved me from a skull fracture. I have a western hat with a helmet built into it. It's great! It can also shelter you from the sun. Some people thought it was quirky, though. But, if you live in an area where western riding is common, it should be OK.

I don't know if you still can buy them, I had bought it over twenty years ago.

I also have an English riding helmet, too. I would definately wear them unless I was taking an unexpected trail ride somewhere on vacation.

I don't usually wear one, because I'm really difficult to fit and they usually hurt, and for how long at a time I ride, they get really itchy and sweaty for me. And I've been breaking mustangs for awhile, pretty dangerous business. And I try to be as comfortable as possible so I can do everything possible to avoid getting thrown and not get distracted. But I figure you're just riding for a little fun? Definitely get a helmet. It's not a part of your livelihood and it's definitely not worth getting killed/crippled for a hobby. Your riding stable will probably require it, and may even provide one. You may want a back protector as mentioned, but remember that horse riding (correctly) is a lot more physical work than you'd think, so you want to make sure it's very comfortable if you'll be riding for hours at a time like I do.

I always wear a helmet. I have been bucked off enough times to know that if I wasn't wearing a helmet I would probably be half retarded by now. Even when I go trail riding I wear one for safety. I make my boyfriend wear one, and I don't care if people make fun of me. I know if I get bucked off i have a thousand times better chance of getting up and walking away, than if I wasnt wearing a helmet.

Yes, I always wear a helmet. I have ridden all my life and in my opinion, not wearing a helmet is just dangerous. If you have a fall, not only can you hit your head on the ground, a fence or whatever, but your horse could accidentally step on you or kick you. I never bothered to hide my helmet unless I was in a show arena. Who cares what you look like if you are safe.
Have fun. Riding is wonderful!

i can honestly say i don't need to wear one, my heads big enough to take the impact. lol (joking)

I've never used one. personally i wouldn't and never will if i have my way if they made 'em nicer and lite but kept the safety then of course i might consider it but i can't really be bothered with taking it off and on. i would find it annoying hehe

Kudos!
~Joey

I agree with the other posters who said any reputable lesson barn should require a helmet.

Troxel is a well-respected brand of helmet.

I didn't use when when I was younger, but you know? I've figured out my brain is worth $50 ;-)

I have been riding horses all my life, and I'm 38 by the way, and I have never worn a helmet. I have been bucked off, fallen off, rolled off, etc... and never been seriously hurt. I really don't see the need for a helmet, thats just my opinion.

I deffinatly say wear a helmet, it will offer you a lot of protection,, without a helmet in the event of a fall you risk brain damage or death if you land wrong.

I see all too many not wearing them,, thier choice I know, but it makes me cringe to see them without! . Helmets all change over the years as standards improve, I would go to a equerstrian specialists if I was you and get expert help to get a good one that fits correctly and is upto the current standard that is required

Lynn-Marie