How to stay cool under your horse riding helmet!

 

• While I would love to help with this AND solve all helmet hair problems, the truth is I can only help you with staying cool.

So how do you stay cool while wearing a helmet?

 

• I have a helmet with vents. Some days I wonder if they work, and then I wear my backup helmet without vents and simultaneously kick myself.

 

• I also like to sometimes wear a bandana under my helmet, this helps to reduce the amount of sweat (and smell) that can get stuck in your horse riding helmet.

 

• You may also consider using a different helmet at home than at shows. While you likely want black or navy for a show, at home you could ride in a white, tan or another light color.

 

Vents on a riding helmet.

 

• I also take my helmet off in between horses.

 

• This gives me a chance to “air out”. I have noticed that some riders just keep their helmets on all the livelong day at shows. I’m guessing this has to do with hairnets and multiple horses and business and no time to redo. But, at home, your day may be able to give you some naked skull time.

 

• If I’m really hot I will use a damp washcloth around my neck when I ride. You could even keep one in the freezer for a bit. This helps some heat evaporate.

 

• There’s also a handy cloth that you can wet, no need for a fridge or freezer. Wear on your head, or around your neck as you ride.

 

• You can also handily use the rag to wipe any sweat that threatens to blind you. Back at the cross ties, grab an ice pack from the freezer, and chill out. A few moments on your neck will help cool you off.

 

• Stay hydrated! Lots of water throughout the day. And remember – it may just be too hot to ride – for you and your horse.

 

For more info on finding a properly fitting helmet, you can read this gem. This snazzy article has tips on how to clean and care for your helmet.

 

If you want to pick up one of those magic cold cloths, the link is here. I also use them for hot yoga class, and it works well! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, for which I’m forever grateful.

Cool down cloths