How To Choose the Right Hat For Trail Riding

When you’re out on the trail, safety is just as important as comfort. A well-fitted, certified riding hat is a non-negotiable piece of gear for every rider, no matter how experienced you are. But beyond protection, the right riding hat can also offer ventilation, weather resistance, and even style.

Here’s how to choose the perfect riding hat for your trail riding adventures.

Key Features of a Good Trail Riding Hat

Trail riding often means being out for long periods, sometimes in remote areas. Wearing a riding hat isn’t just about following safety rules – it’s about protecting your head from potential falls, low-hanging branches, and unexpected slips. Investing in a good riding hat is investing in your long-term health and safety.

When looking for the perfect riding hat for trail riding, consider the following key features:

• Safety Certification: Make sure your hat meets current safety standards (like PAS015, VG1, ASTM F1163). Always check the label before buying.
• Fit and Comfort: Your hat should feel snug but not tight. It shouldn’t wobble or move when you shake your head. Look for adjustable harnesses or padded liners that offer a custom fit.
• Ventilation: Look for designs with built-in ventilation to keep your head cool, especially for longer rides in warmer weather.
• Weight: Lightweight hats reduce strain on your neck during long trail rides.
• Weather Resistance: For all-weather riders, water-resistant or waterproof materials and a peak to shield your eyes from sun or rain are a bonus.

How to Know if It Fits Properly

Try on your riding hat with your hair as you would normally wear it when riding. It should sit level on your head, just above your eyebrows, and feel secure without pinching. When you tilt your head forward, the hat should stay in place without shifting. A properly fitted helmet won’t need to be overly tight to stay secure.

Just like with boots, practicality on the trail matters. The same principle applies to hats: pick the one that best suits your riding style and terrain. And if you’re unsure when comes the moment to pick your new trail riding hat, don’t forget that our team at Saddle Up & Ride is here to help! We offer FREE professional hat fitting on site so just ask and walk away with a helmet that’s been carefully selected and fitted for you.

Our Favourite Trail Riding Hats

Let’s help you find the best hat for your trail riding adventures! Here is a list of favourite options that offer top safety, comfort, and are all-weather proof. These styles are all available at our Saddle Up & Ride shop, which is located on site at the FreeRein stables. So if you’re about to head off on a FreeRein trail riding holiday, you can be sure to find the perfect trail riding hat at our store – and even better, we offer FREE professional hat fitting on site too!

1. CASCO Champ-3

Check it out here: Casco Champ-3 Black, Casco Champ-3 Blue Silver
The Casco Champ-3 is a high profile riding helmet in a sleek and sporty style with an automatic climate control system. The helmet features a washable and replaceable liner so you can refresh it when needed. The Disk-Fit dial-adjustable system at the back allows the helmet to be adapted to the head and provides an optimal fit.
Casco helmets are made in Europe to strict ISO-certification and are our favourite hats for trail riding.

2. UVEX Exxential II LED

Check it out here: UVEX Exxential II LED
This is the first UVEX riding helmet with inbuilt LED lights that can be activated by the touch of a button. This LED riding helmet is for those who want to stay safe on the roads, with rear red lights and front white lights. The UVEX Exxential II LED complies with standards for cycling, therefore it can take you safely to the stables by bike too. The lights last between six and twelve hours, depending on the mode. Exxential II LED is a lightweight helmet with extensive ventilation and a 3D IAS dial-adjustment system allowing a customised fit.

3. KEP Cromo

Check it out here: KEP Cromo Grey, KEP Cromo Matt Blue

The KEP Cromo is a lightweight riding hat from Italian designers KEP that’s been crafted with a tough polycarbonate shell and a pioneering ventilation system. The ergonomic design further improves rider comfort through removing pressure at the forehead and fitting snugly at the back to stop the hat tipping forward. Also featuring a hypoallergenic, eco-leather harness and easy-to-remove, machine-washable liner, this KEP helmet combines functionality with aesthetics.

4. UVEX Perfexxion

Check it out here: UVEX Perfexxion II, UVEX Perfexxion II XC, UVEX Perfexxion III

Designed especially for cross-country riding, the UVEX Perfexxion II XC peakless helmet provides ultimate safety and comfort. This ergonomic riding hat features a honeycomb structure, large air vents for unbeatable ventilation and a ponytail cut-out making it perfect for equestrians with long hair. Maximum safety is ensured through the elongated back, scientific design and 3D-IAS size adjustment, giving a perfect fit every time.

The Right Hat To Enhance Your Rides

Choosing the right riding hat is all about combining safety, comfort, and functionality. A good hat doesn’t just protect your head – it enhances your ride by keeping you cool, focused, and protected from the elements. And much like your favourite pair of boots, a quality riding hat is a worthwhile investment that can last you for years with the right care.

Stay safe, and enjoy the trail!