Understanding Helmet and Body Protector Standards

At Charles Owen, safety has been at the heart of what we do for more than a century. As Official Safety Partner to British Eventing, we are proud to support the BE Prepared campaign - helping riders at every level understand how to protect themselves as effectively as possible.

Wearing a helmet and body protector is only part of the picture. To deliver the protection they’re designed for, both must meet current standards, be correctly fitted, and be in good condition.

Standards evolve, materials age, and equipment that once complied may no longer offer the level of protection required today.

This guide explains the current standards for helmets and body protectors accepted for British Eventing, and how riders can check their own equipment with confidence.

Riding Helmets: Standards and Safety Checks

A riding helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment a rider wears. It is designed to reduce the severity of head injuries by absorbing and dissipating impact forces—but only if it meets approved safety standards and fits correctly.

Current helmet standards accepted for British Eventing include:

• AS/NZS 3838***

*With BSI Kitemark or Inspec IC Mark **With SEI mark ***With SAI Global mark

These standards test helmets for key safety criteria, including impact absorption, penetration resistance, retention system strength and stability on the head. While testing protocols vary, each approved standard demonstrates that the helmet meets stringent safety requirements.

How to check your helmet

1. Check the internal label

Your helmet must have a clearly visible label showing the approved safety standard. If this label is missing, damaged or unreadable, the helmet may not be accepted for competition.

2. Consider the age of the helmet

We recommend replacing helmets every 3–5 years, even if they appear undamaged. Over time, exposure to sweat, UV light and general use can compromise the protective materials inside the helmet.

3. Has the helmet taken an impact?

Any helmet involved in a fall where the rider’s head hits the ground should be replaced immediately. Internal damage is not always visible but can significantly reduce protection.

4. Check the fit and stability

A helmet should sit level on the head, feel snug without pressure points, and remain secure when gently rocked. A poorly fitting helmet can move during a fall, reducing its protective capability.

5. Inspect the harness and fastenings

The retention system is critical. Straps should be securely stitched, not frayed, and the buckle should fasten firmly every time.

Body Protectors: Current Requirements and Fit

Body protectors play a vital role in reducing the severity of injuries to the torso, particularly during cross-country where rotational falls and solid obstacles present increased risk.

Current body protector standards

For British Eventing, body protectors must meet:

• EN 13158:2018 – Level 3

Level 3 is the highest level of protection available and is mandatory for the cross-country phase. Lower protection levels are not suitable for eventing competition.

How to check your body protector

1. Confirm the standard and level

Check the internal label to ensure the protector is certified to 2018 Level 3. Older standards may no longer be accepted under current rules.

2. Inspect the condition of the panels

Look for signs of wear such as cracking, compression, hardening or splitting of the protective panels. These can all reduce the protector’s ability to absorb impact.

• Sit close to the body without restricting movement

• Cover the chest, ribs and spine

• Sit just below the collarbone at the front

• Finish above the saddle when seated

If the protector rides up, shifts excessively or leaves gaps, it may not offer adequate protection.

4. Check fastenings and elastic

Velcro should fasten securely and elastic panels should retain their stretch. Worn fastenings can allow the protector to move during a fall.

5. Reassess fit regularly

Body shape can change over time, and a protector that fitted well previously may no longer offer correct coverage. Regular fit checks are essential.

Why Staying Up to Date Matters

Safety equipment is not designed to last forever. Advances in testing, materials and research mean standards are updated to reflect improved understanding of rider safety. At the same time, normal wear and tear can reduce the effectiveness of even the best-designed equipment.

As riders, making time to review helmet and body protector standards and to check our own equipment helps ensure we are as prepared as possible every time we ride.

BE Prepared with Charles Owen

At Charles Owen, we believe that education is a key part of safety. By understanding current standards and knowing how to assess your equipment properly, you can make informed decisions that support your performance and your protection.

As part of the BE Prepared campaign, we encourage every rider to take a moment this season to check their helmet, review their body protector, and replace equipment where necessary.

Because when it comes to safety, preparation matters.