Shopping for a riding helmet can be unexpectedly over-whelming. Sure, it’s a simple enough piece of equipment, but with dozens of brands, each with numerous models, there’s a lot for a consumer to compare and consider.
For the safety minded, though, one thing is non-negotiable: a good rating from a reputable organization, which in the United States means ASTM/SEI certification. This designation indicates that the helmet model has undergone testing by the Safety Equipment Institute and passed standards set by ASTM International, formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials.
For decades now, ASTM/SEI helmets have been required for junior riders by many U.S. organizations and certain recognized shows, and some states have passed legislation mandating their use by children. At the same time, a growing number of adult competitors and recreational riders have opted for ASTM/SEI certified headgear, and some
