Injury. 2025 Nov 27:112907. doi: 10.1016/j.injury.2025.112907. Online ahead of print.
OBJECTIVE: Helmets play a critical role in preventing and reducing the severity of head injuries in high-risk sports. Understanding the factors influencing equestrian helmet use and safety perceptions is needed to optimise injury prevention strategies.
METHODS: In this cross-sectional study of 596 equestrian participants aged ≥12 years, we assessed helmet use, factors influencing helmet purchase decisions, and perceptions of helmet safety. Chi square tests and regression models examined differences by age, professional status, jumping versus non-jumping disciplines and concussion history.
RESULTS: Helmet use whilst riding was high (96 % participants). A high proportion of helmets used for competition (97 %) met at least one safety standard, however this was lower for recreational use (65 %). Younger equestrians (aged 12-44 years) and those who had not experienced a concussion were more likely to rank price as the most important factor for helmet purchase decision making. There were no differences by jumping or non-jumping equestrian disciplines or professional status. Older age and being female were independently linked with higher perceptions of helmet safety in the regression model (p = 0.01).
CONCLUSION: Safety messages need to focus on improving understanding of helmet standards and the reasoning behind safety recommendations to help reduce the injury risk in equestrian sports, particularly targeting adolescents/young adults.
PubMed:41330824 | DOI:10.1016/j.injury.2025.112907