Horse riding hat standards explained
A riding hat is the most important piece of equipment a rider owns, and the labels inside it can be confusing. PAS 015, VG1, ASTM, Snell, Kitemark, SEI: what do they mean, and which ones matter for riding in Ireland? This guide explains the main standards and how to choose and care for a hat.
This is general information. Competition rules change, so always check the current rules of the organisation you ride or compete with before buying.
Why standards exist
A hat standard sets out the tests a hat must pass, typically shock absorption (how much impact energy reaches the head), penetration resistance and the strength of the harness. A hat that has been tested to a recognised standard has been shown to meet those minimums in laboratory conditions.
On its own, a standard is a design and test specification. Most competition bodies also want to see a quality mark showing that the manufacturer's production is checked on an ongoing basis by an independent body, not just that a sample once passed.
The main standards you will see
PAS 015
PAS 015 is a British specification for equestrian helmets. The 2011 version is the one generally accepted today; older versions such as PAS 015:1998 have been dropped by many organisations. PAS 015 hats are tested for impact at several points and for penetration.
VG1
VG1 01.040 2014-12 is a European specification developed after the earlier European standard (EN 1384) was withdrawn as a harmonised standard. You will see it written as VG1 01.040 2014-12 on the label. It is widely accepted by Irish and British organisations when paired with a recognised quality mark.
ASTM F1163
ASTM F1163 is the American standard for equestrian helmets. Hats tested to it should carry the SEI (Safety Equipment Institute) mark, which shows independent certification. Different organisations accept different editions, so check which years your body lists.
Snell
Snell is an independent American foundation that tests helmets. Snell E2016 and later editions are accepted by some organisations; older Snell labels generally are not.
EN 1384
You may see EN 1384 on older hats. It used to be the common European standard, but on its own it is no longer accepted by most Irish and British competition bodies. Treat an EN 1384-only hat as due for replacement.
Quality marks
Look for one of these alongside the standard:
- BSI Kitemark, the British Standards Institution mark.
- Inspec IC mark, from Inspec International, a test and certification body.
- SEI, which goes with ASTM F1163.
- SAI Global, which goes with the Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZS 3838.
What Irish organisations accept
Irish bodies publish their own lists, and they are updated from time to time. For example, the Irish Pony Club publishes tack and hat rules for rallies and competitions, and AIRE has published news on riding hat standards for its approved centres. The Irish Pony Club, like many organisations, uses hat tags to show that a hat has been checked by an official.
Typical accepted combinations in recent years have included PAS 015:2011 or VG1 01.040 2014-12 with a Kitemark or IC mark, ASTM F1163 with the SEI mark, and Snell E2016 or later. The UK Pony Club's current list differs slightly (for example, it no longer lists PAS 015), which shows why checking the specific rulebook matters.
Fitting a riding hat
A hat to the best standard does little if it fits badly. A trained fitter will:
- Measure the head about 2 cm above the eyebrows.
- Check the hat sits level, with the front just above the eyebrows.
- Make sure it is snug all round without pressure points, and does not move when you shake your head.
- Adjust the harness so the chin strap is firm and the side straps sit just below the ears.
Different brands suit different head shapes (round or oval), so try several.
When to replace a hat
- After any significant impact, including a fall where your head hit the ground and a hat dropped on to a hard floor. Damage to the inner liner may be invisible.
- When the standard is no longer accepted by your organisation.
- When the hat no longer fits, for example after a growth spurt in a child.
- When it is worn out. Manufacturers usually give a recommended replacement interval; follow it.
Never buy a secondhand riding hat. You cannot know its history.
Caring for your hat
Store it somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sun and away from heat such as a car dashboard or radiator. Do not hang it by the harness. Clean the outer shell with a damp cloth and use products recommended by the manufacturer for the lining.
Frequently asked questions
Is VG1 better than PAS 015?
They are different specifications with different test methods, and both are widely accepted. The more useful question is whether your hat carries a standard and quality mark that your riding school or competition currently accepts, and whether it fits you well.
What is a hat tag?
Some organisations, including the Irish Pony Club, check hats before they can be used at rallies or competitions and attach a tag to show the hat has been approved. If your hat has no tag, ask your branch or the organiser how to get it checked.
Can I use a cycling or ski helmet for horse riding?
No. They are designed and tested for different kinds of impact. Use a hat made and tested for equestrian use.
How long does a riding hat last?
It depends on use and the manufacturer's guidance. Replace it after any significant fall or drop, if it no longer fits, or when its standard is no longer accepted.
