Product Review - Troxel Spirit Equestrian Helmet

My first riding helmet was a traditional black velvet hunt cap. For nine months of the year (particularly during horse shows), it was hot! Fortunately, times have changed. Recently, I purchased the most popular equestrian helmet available today, the Troxel Spirit. This sleek, light, comfortable cap offers excellent protection and superb fit. The vented sides allow air flow, and a removable, washable mesh headliner makes it hygienic.

The patented GPS-II dial-fit system allows the rider to turn a little knob at the back of the helmet, so that it fits snugly and securely atop the head. A comfortable adjustable chin strap holds the helmet in place. The design of the helmet allows space for the rider's ponytail, if he or she has one.

This helmet weighs less than a pound, and it comes in lots of colors, including violet, White, black, navy, fuschia, and periwinkle. Velvety stretch covers are available for horse shows.

After riding a few times in this helmet, I went home and got right on the internet. I visited my favorite online tack store and ordered new helmets for both of my horse-crazy kids.

Troxel's Spirit helmet can be found at saddleries, tack stores, and feed. Direct-mail catalogs and online businesses carry it as well. Consignment stores (particularly equestrian ones) may offer used helmets, although I would not recommend these. If you wish to purchase a used helmet, you will want to examine it carefully. If the outer shell or inner protective layer are damaged, that helmet may not protect your head. In other words, a cheap helmet may prove quite costly!

"Head injuries account for approximately 60% of deaths resulting from equestrian accidents," according to the American Medical Equestrian Institute. "Properly fitted ASTM/SEI certified helmets can prevent death and reduce the severity of head injuries sustained while riding."

Many equestrian associations require helmets for shows and events. USA Equestrian, Pony Club, and the US Equestrian Association have led the way. Helmets are also required for horse racing.

My kids and I wear our helmets whenever we ride, even bareback in sneakers. Basically, we think the helmet is the most important piece of riding equipment we own.

Retailing at $39.95, this mid-priced product is ideal for beginners, schooling and training, and even for shows. (Velvety stretch covers are available for horse shows.)

The Troxel spirit comes in a full range of sizes: S (6 3/4 - 7), M (7 - 7 1/4), L (7 3/8+). This helmet weighs less than a pound, and it comes in lots of colors, including violet, White, black, navy, fuschia, and periwinkle.