Horseback riding is a high-risk activity when it comes to brain injuries, yet many equestrian helmets may not offer adequate protection, according to a groundbreaking study from Virginia Tech’s helmet laboratory. Known for its decade-long experience in rating sports helmets, this is the first time the lab has tested helmets specifically designed for equestrian use.

The research, conducted under realistic conditions at Virginia Tech’s Alphin Stuart Livestock Area in Blacksburg, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various equestrian helmets in protecting riders. The results were startling: only two helmets earned the highest five-star rating, while several others were given just one star and were deemed not recommended.

“When we released the results, our website saw over 100,000 unique visitors within just a few days,” said Stefan Duma, a professor of engineering at Virginia Tech and co-founder of the helmet laboratory. “This level of interest was about ten times higher than any other sport we’ve rated.”

Duma pointed out that price doesn’t always equate to better protection. For example, one of the five-star helmets costs only $58, while a one-star helmet carries a price tag of $449.

Horseback riders suffer brain injuries at higher rates than participants in many other sports, which underscores the importance of effective head protection. “Almost everyone who rides a horse has experienced a fall,” Duma explained. “Considering the height from which riders can fall, the potential for a serious head injury is significant.”

Duma expressed hope that the findings will push helmet manufacturers to enhance their designs, particularly by increasing padding, in the near future.