Whether you're a UK-based equestrian or an international rider planning to saddle up on British soil, understanding the UK's safety gear regulations is essential—not just for compliance, but for your own protection.
From choosing the right riding helmet to knowing when a body protector is required, here’s everything you need to know to ride safely and confidently in the UK.
Why Safety Standards Matter
Riding is a thrilling sport, but it's not without risk. The right safety gear can significantly reduce the severity of injuries. That’s why the UK has strict regulations around what riders can and should wear—particularly when it comes to helmets and body protectors.
Whether you're riding at a British riding school, competing at a local show or heading out on a hack, wearing gear that meets current UK safety standards is essential.
Choosing a Riding Helmet: What to Look For
Your riding helmet is arguably the most important piece of kit you’ll own. But not all helmets are created equal.
UK Safety Standards for Helmets
In the UK, the following helmet standards are currently accepted at most riding centres and competitions (as of 2025):
- PAS015:2011 or PAS015:1998
- VG1 01.040 2014-12
- ASTM F1163 2004a or 04a onwards
- SNELL E2001 or E2016
- SEI certified helmets
Make sure the helmet is kitemarked or carries a CE mark alongside these standards. British Eventing, the Pony Club and BHS-affiliated events require hats that meet at least one of these standards, and it's likely your riding school or trainer will, too.
Check out Charles Owen’s range of certified riding helmets that meet the highest UK safety requirements.
Fit is Everything
Even the best helmet is ineffective if it doesn’t fit properly. Your helmet should:
- Sit snugly on your head with even pressure all around
- Not rock forwards, backwards or side to side
- Have a secure, adjustable harness
- Sit just above your eyebrows
When trying on helmets, look for adjustable features and multiple size options. A great example is the Charles Owen Luna, designed for a close, custom fit with a modern aesthetic.
It’s always best to have your hat fitted by a professional in-person, rather than ordering online and hoping it will fit. You may need additional padding put in to make it the ideal fit, and it’s common to go back to the stockist in a few months to check the padding hasn’t flattened with use and compromised the fit.
When Do You Need a Body Protector?
While helmets are mandatory for nearly all riders in structured settings, body protectors are typically only required in certain disciplines or for riders under a certain age.
Common Scenarios Where Body Protectors Are Required:
- Cross-country competitions: Body protectors meeting BETA Level 3 2018 standard (purple label) are compulsory.
- Pony Club and British Eventing activities: Must meet the same standard.
- Some riding schools or trail rides: May recommend or require body protectors, especially for beginners or children.
That said, even if it’s not mandatory, a body protector is worth considering for everyday riding, hacking or jumping. It offers critical protection to the spine, ribs and organs in the event of a fall.
Browse Charles Owen’s Airowear body protectors that meet the latest BETA safety standards.
Visiting Riders: What You Need to Know
If you’re coming to the UK from abroad to ride—perhaps booking a riding holiday through Cavago—don’t assume your home-country gear will be accepted. Helmets and body protectors must meet UK-specific standards, even if your current kit meets different regulations elsewhere.
Some riding centres may offer rental equipment, but it’s always safer and more comfortable to bring your own approved gear. Confirm with the facility in advance and double-check that your helmet and body protector meet at least one of the approved UK safety standards listed above.
Plan ahead with a Charles Owen helmet or body protector so you're never caught off guard.
Other Helmet Features to Consider
When shopping for a new helmet, beyond just safety and fit, consider these additional factors:
- Ventilation: Especially important for long summer rides. The Charles Owen My PS with MIPS offers top-tier airflow and extra protection.
- MIPS Technology: This Multi-directional Impact Protection System helps reduce rotational motion transferred to the brain during angled impacts.
- Removable liners: For easy washing and better hygiene—great for frequent riders.
- Style: Let’s face it, feeling confident matters. Charles Owen helmets come in a range of finishes and colours to suit your personal taste.
Your safety matters
The UK takes rider safety seriously—and so should you. Whether you’re hacking through the countryside or jumping at an affiliated competition, choosing high-quality, regulation-approved safety gear is non-negotiable.
Invest in a helmet and body protector that meet the latest standards, fit properly and support your style and comfort. With brands like Charles Owen leading the way in both innovation and elegance, safety gear has never looked—or performed—so well.
Explore the full Charles Owen collection today and ride with confidence, wherever your journey takes you.
Ready to book your next ride in the UK? Check out what Cavago has to offer.
