Helmet price and safety – we debunk the myth about “cheap and dangerous” riding helmets

In the equestrian world, there's a belief that only expensive equipment guarantees safety. One of the most common comments online is:


“Don't buy cheap helmets if you care about your health.”


While this sounds convincing, it's actually a myth. In this article, we'll examine the facts, regulations, and tests that every helmet must pass—whether it costs 200 PLN or 2,000 PLN.

1. What determines whether a helmet is safe? Certifications

Not the price, not the brand, not the "feeling of solidity in the hands".
Every riding helmet approved for sale in the European Union must meet certain safety standards.


The most important applicable standards are:

• EN 1384:2023 – the latest and most up-to-date European safety standard for equestrian helmets. It incorporates modern testing methods, including various impact angles, stability, and rotational acceleration. Considered one of the most rigorous and prestigious.
• VG1 01.040 2014-12 – a widely used European standard, in force for the last decade, still widely accepted.
• PAS 015 – British standard covering side tests, impacts from different directions and belt strength.
• ASTM F1163 + SEI – an American standard, also very popular, testing impact resistance and stability.

Every certified helmet, regardless of price, must pass stringent laboratory tests.

2. Why are some helmets cheaper and others more expensive?

The price of a helmet does not necessarily have to be related to the level of protection.
The price differences are mainly due to:

• finishing materials – such as leather, shiny coatings, hand-finished products,
• design and brand – i.e. fees for reputation and marketing,
• regulation and ventilation systems – comfort of use, not safety,
• production locations – local production is often associated with higher costs,
• additional protective technologies, e.g. MIPS .

MIPS is an innovative solution that is not required by applicable standards (e.g. EN 1384:2023 or VG1), but can provide an additional layer of protection in certain types of falls.
That's why helmets equipped with this technology are often more expensive – even though their basic protection must be identical to non-MIPS models to be certified.

3. What do consumer and scientific tests show?

Stiftung Warentest (Germany, 2005)

In independent tests by Stiftung Warentest, 15 helmet models were assessed.
The most expensive one – for 350 euros – received a “sufficient” rating, while the helmet for 15 euros received a “good” rating.

Conclusion: price does not guarantee safety.

Source: test.de – Reithelme


Virginia Tech Helmet Lab (USA, 2022)

Virginia Tech conducted a groundbreaking study of 40 equestrian helmet models, evaluating their ability to reduce the risk of concussion based on real-world fall scenarios.


The best results were achieved by:

• Champion Revolve X-Air MIPS – approx. $460 (5 stars),
• TuffRider Carbon Fiber – approx. $58 (also 5 stars).

This shows that a cheap helmet can offer excellent protection.

Full results: helmet.beam.vt.edu

Coverage: Virginia Tech News

4. What should you pay attention to when choosing a helmet?

• Presence of a current certificate (EN 1384:2023, VG1, PAS 015, ASTM/SEI)
• Perfect fit to the head – no looseness or pressure
• Stability during movement and sudden shocks
• Clasp – secure but comfortable
• Comfort – ventilation, replaceable pads, weight

5. Summary – what is worth remembering?

• Price does not guarantee safety.
• Certification and fit – these are the most important protection factors.
• EN 1384:2023 is the current, respected European standard.

Are all safety standards identical?

Not entirely. Standards differ in testing methods and requirements – and that's worth knowing.


The ASTM F1163 standard with SEI certification, used primarily in the USA, is known for its very stringent impact testing and regular production inspection.
This is a high standard – especially for competitive sports.


EN 1384:2023 , the latest European standard, has been thoroughly updated in response to growing market needs. It introduces, among other things, rotational testing and increased requirements for stability and impact absorption.
It is respected by all European federations and recognized at FEI competitions.


In practice? Both ASTM and EN 1384:2023 aim to do one thing – protect your head.
If a helmet has a current, official certificate (such as EN 1384:2023), it means that it has passed a series of rigorous tests and meets the safety standards required on the market.


Safety doesn't start with a price tag or a marketing story. It starts with certification, proper fit, and responsible use.


Don't be fooled by myths. Cheap doesn't mean inferior – especially when it comes to a certified helmet.