| You probably already know that protective clothing, | | | | helmet that isn't used. You never know if a helmet has |
| including riding hats, are necessary for your horseback | | | | been in an accident before, so do not take the chance. |
| riding safety. Although equestrians and others love | | | | Make Sure the Hat Fits: Does the hat slide around? Is it |
| horses - they are horses beautiful, often friendly and | | | | comfortable? You want a comfortable fit and a hat |
| intelligent, and fun to ride - they can become | | | | that doesn't slide around. If you fall, you want a hat that |
| dangerous when startles or scared. | | | | stays in place and absorbs the impact. If it's |
| Although all riders are vulnerable to injury, novice riders | | | | uncomfortable, you will either be miserable or not wear |
| are especially at risk. That said, all riders need to take | | | | it. Be sure to get one that feels good. Ventilation helps |
| precautions. Any horse - even one you know well - | | | | in this regard. |
| can be spooked and start to kick or gallop when she | | | | Body Protectors |
| gets scared. A car backfiring, lightning, or even static | | | | A rider's skill in handling their horse has affects the |
| electricity can spook a horse into running. One never | | | | horse's performance. Many a novice rider can tell a |
| knows what might happen. The best idea is to prepare | | | | story about the horse who could tell they were a |
| with safety equipment. | | | | novice. Sometimes, the horse will take advantage of |
| Both riding hats and a body protector offer safety and | | | | inexperience. They are quite clever that way. |
| protection. A lot of people know to wear helmets and | | | | A body or back protector is a good idea. They protect |
| don't think much about protecting the spine or chest. | | | | a rider's chest and back, which are two vital parts of |
| However, protecting your body, as well as the head, is | | | | our bodies. The vest-shaped protector is filled with |
| also important. A fall can injure any part of your body. | | | | foam. Wear them over clothing or slide them under a |
| Riding Hats | | | | jacket. |
| A helmet that carries the ASTM certification offers | | | | Unfortunately, no one can guarantee that a riding hat |
| you protection while riding a horse. Look for the | | | | or body protector will prevent injury in every case. |
| certification first and take these additional ideas into | | | | Taking these two steps - wearing a riding helmet and |
| consideration. They are important. | | | | a body protection - should reduce your chances of |
| Do Not Buy a Used Hat: Make sure that you find a | | | | harm. |