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 Color Coordination Director
    
| In light of current events I am curious who all wears and competes in a helmet, who doesnt, and who thinks they should but just havent for whatever reason. |
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 Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | Sure would be easier if it was just a requirement...then everyone is wearing them and no one feels silly. |
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| Will be soon! I plan to buy one this week. It's just not worth it. |
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | What about equestrian helmets? Why are they different than helmets I see at barrel races? |
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 Expert
Posts: 1286
Location: Mississippi | I have been wearing one since I started back barrel racing (after not having even sat on a horse for about 15 years). That was a few years ago and I won't lie, I did feel silly at first because it was mostly just kids who wore helmets but I am so used to wearing it now that I feel silly without it. Plus alot more adults have started wearing them and I don't think there is as much stigma attached as it used to be.
I think we will see it become more of a norm in the coming years especially with Jackie and Fallon using their influence to promote helmets. |
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 Midget Lover
Location: Kentucky | I ordered one today. |
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 Expert
Posts: 2674
Location: Silver Lake, MN | I haven't but I am going to. I don't care what I look like I value my life way too much. Now just need to decide what to order. |
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Married to a Louie Lover
Posts: 3303
| slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:50 AM
What about equestrian helmets? Why are they different than helmets I see at barrel races?
Not sure what you mean? What helmets are you seeing a barrel races that aren't designed for horseback riding??? |
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | OhMax - 2016-02-29 10:13 AM slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:50 AM What about equestrian helmets? Why are they different than helmets I see at barrel races? Not sure what you mean? What helmets are you seeing a barrel races that aren't designed for horseback riding???
Like the hunter jumper helmets. Aren't they different than barrel racing ones |
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Color Coordination Director
| Maybe the show helmets but schooling helmets are all the same for the most part, they have evoolved tremdously over the years. |
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 Expert
Posts: 1631
Location: Somewhere around here | OhMax - 2016-02-29 9:13 AM
slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:50 AM
What about equestrian helmets? Why are they different than helmets I see at barrel races?
Not sure what you mean? What helmets are you seeing a barrel races that aren't designed for horseback riding???
I'm confused as well! Maybe some people are riding bicycle helmets because they're cheaper and easier to just buy one at Wal-Mart instead of going to a good tack store or ordering one online. BIIIGG NO NO. |
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Married to a Louie Lover
Posts: 3303
| I wear one when I run, I use to occasionally pass and wear a hat but I took a couple falls last fall off a horse that broke in 2 with zero warning on me. The first fall I did not have a helmet on and even though my hip took most of the impact I still had a headache to show for it.
A few days later it happened again. This time I did have a helmet on. However all I remember is feeling him hump and then I was face down in the dirt. I had short term memory loss about the next few hours and since we can't confirm I blacked out (people watching said I was on my hands and knees trying to get my wind back as soon as I hit the ground) I was technically just shy of the concussion scale - WITH A HELMET ON! My forehead was bruised from the impact.
I do not struggle with wearing one when I work at home or run barrels. I have struggled with the stigma when we rope. But the more thought I've put into it - I'm happy to be the one to help break the stigma. Look at Jake Barnes. We also had a family friend wreck while roping and suffer head trauma.
I love where my life is at and where it is going. I'm in a risky sport, but a helmet makes it a little safer. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 690
Location: Georgia | I wore one for years. Finally decided to stop wearing one and use my hats, as soon as I stopped wearing one they became the trendy thing to wear  Go figure. So now I will probably switch back to the helmet for safety reasons. |
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Rad Dork
Posts: 5218
Location: Oklahoma | turtleaut - 2016-02-29 9:52 AM
I have been wearing one since I started back barrel racing (after not having even sat on a horse for about 15 years). That was a few years ago and I won't lie, I did feel silly at first because it was mostly just kids who wore helmets but I am so used to wearing it now that I feel silly without it. Plus alot more adults have started wearing them and I don't think there is as much stigma attached as it used to be.
I think we will see it become more of a norm in the coming years especially with Jackie and Fallon using their influence to promote helmets.
I've saw Molli had one on in a 5Star ad, and I think Kylar has always worn one.... I really hope they gain in popularity. I see more and more of them at bigger races, but if I go to a local race I won't see one.
I personally don't wear one, but I have one in my closet that I bought to use for English lessons.... and I will wear it when I am riding a horse I don't trust. After seeing some nasty wrecks at the OKC Shootout last summer I will probably wear one in pens with concrete walls. |
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 Texas Taco
Posts: 7499
Location: Bandera, TX | I have been wearing one for about 6 years now. I wear it 100% of the time with my mare, and on my gelding when we run barrels, trail ride or do anything out of the ordinary. |
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  Whack and Roll
Posts: 6342
Location: NE Texas | I have 2 helmets, a Charles Owen skull cap that is silver and an Ovation schooler that is matte grey. The Charles Owen fits so nice, but it's heavy and it's extremely hot to wear in the summer time. It's so quality though. The Ovation I would like to sell, as I didn't get the right size. Ive had it on my head a couple of times, but after wearing the CO, it feels like it's about to pop off my head, as apparently i'm a cone head. Can't wear those cute head bands like other girls do to keep the hair out of their face either....they just roll back off my cone head. LOL
I'm ashamed to say that I have never worn my helmets when competing. I did wear them at home almost every day but got out of the habit of doing that when it got hot last year. :( I admit that my pride gets the best of me when I look at it and think about strapping it on at an actual barrel race. Sad really. I don't think anyone would give me a hard time, it's just my own stupid insecurity.
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Expert
Posts: 1477
Location: In the land of peanuts and cotton | I have one. I don't wear it when I ride at home and I don't always wear it when I run but after this week that's all about the change. I've always said I can trust my horses, they won't do anything stupid so I don't need it. Now I trials they don't have to do anything. It can be a pure accident to no fault of theirs. I've ran at Hattiesburg many many times without a helmet and it could have just as easily been me or anyone else. Life is too precious to keep taking chances. |
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Color Coordination Director
| I think its a sensitive subject. I have honestly never had a thought that I needed to be wearing one, for whatever reason it has always been oh western people dont need a helmet. Looking back all the years I rode jumpers, I never had a problem wearing one, it was part of my daily routine, tack up horses put helmet on. Lara Dewess death was a reminder to all of us that anything can happen at anytime I think, it was for me atleast. |
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 Expert
Posts: 1525
| Is there a certain brand or type that is better for Toddlers? |
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Whack and Roll
Posts: 6342
Location: NE Texas | For sure, mbcruel, I agree. I have felt the need to wear one for several years now, and do wear one when I start all my young horses. Once they are somewhat trustworthy, it's hot outside, and I quit wearing it. Stupid excuse, but it's the truth. Then i'm out of the habit by the time it's time to make a run. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 678
Location: Canada | I used to wear a helmet all the time when I rode Hunter/Jumpers but when I switched to running barrels I stopped. My son is five now and is planning to Pee-Wee barrel race this summer so I've decided I'm going back to wearing a helmet. He always wears a helmet around the horses and now that he wants to compete I want to set a good example so one for him and one for Momma :)
I make all my 18 and under students wear one. It's my rules and requirements for riding with me. This takes the pressure off the parents when the kid complains they don't want to wear one. If you want to ride, put a helmet on. If you don't want to wear a helmet get comfy on the bench until you change your mind.  |
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Expert
Posts: 1477
Location: In the land of peanuts and cotton | mbcruel21 - 2016-02-29 11:00 AM
I think its a sensitive subject. I have honestly never had a thought that I needed to be wearing one, for whatever reason it has always been oh western people dont need a helmet. Looking back all the years I rode jumpers, I never had a problem wearing one, it was part of my daily routine, tack up horses put helmet on. Lara Dewess death was a reminder to all of us that anything can happen at anytime I think, it was for me atleast.
I agree this is a sensitive subject and may not be the best time to have this discussion but at the same time it can serve as a reminder to others to wear a helmet reguadless of whether you think you need it or not. |
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 Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | slacy09 - 2016-02-29 10:16 AM
OhMax - 2016-02-29 10:13 AM slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:50 AM What about equestrian helmets? Why are they different than helmets I see at barrel races? Not sure what you mean? What helmets are you seeing a barrel races that aren't designed for horseback riding???
No, they aren't different. There are some I would recommend over others. |
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Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | I have an ovation for my daughter. I personally have a Charles Owen AYR8 and a GPA Speed Air Evolution. Both of mine are hunter/jumper style helmets. I love them. My GPA is so breathable. |
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Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | Here is a video on helmet fit. It was done by the sales manager of the tack store I used to work for.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gGDUSU4TpM |
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Expert
Posts: 1477
Location: In the land of peanuts and cotton | Anyone know who makes helmet covers? I was looking at getting a few different helmets when someone on fb mentioned covers but didn't know who made them. |
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 Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| I started wearing one about a year ago. My 25 year old daughter moved back, she has an 11 month old son and I made her start wearing a helmet, she has her son and husband to think of now. I started wearing one too, if my grandson wants to ride he will wear one. |
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Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | TessBelle - 2016-02-29 11:34 AM
Anyone know who makes helmet covers? I was looking at getting a few different helmets when someone on fb mentioned covers but didn't know who made them.
you can look at many english tack stores like Mary's Tack and Feed, Dover Saddlery and they sell helmet covers. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 1117
Location: MI | I started wearing one last spring when I got bucked off - my old trusty mare was feeling fresh, I was caught off guard. Wasn't injured but my husband was super freaked out and it was a reminder that something bad can happen so quickly. I bought a Tipperary Sportage which luckily fits me very well and is comfortable (i think this is key- if it isn't comfy you'll dread wearing it). I think I've just reached a stage of "eff it" - I don't care what others think lol. But it does help that they've became more prevelant lately too. If you wear it often enough, all of a sudden you'll feel naked one day if you don't haha. 
Edited by KDS 2016-02-29 11:44 AM
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | TessBelle - 2016-02-29 11:34 AM Anyone know who makes helmet covers? I was looking at getting a few different helmets when someone on fb mentioned covers but didn't know who made them.
Etsy |
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | TwistedK - 2016-02-29 11:22 AM I have an ovation for my daughter. I personally have a Charles Owen AYR8 and a GPA Speed Air Evolution. Both of mine are hunter/jumper style helmets. I love them. My GPA is so breathable.
The price!  |
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 I Prefer to Live in Fantasy Land
Posts: 64864
Location: In the Hills of Texas | I had 2 different horses fall at home and my husband said wear a helmet of don't ride. Best thing ever since the Texas sun can fry your brains and wearing a baseball cap drives me nuts. I first bought a Troxel and I hated it and then bought a Tipperary Sportage and it's so light and comfortable plus it keeps the hot sun off of my head. I actually felt naked without it. It did take me longer to wear it when I ran but once I did...again it sure was a lot more comfortable then wearing a cowboy hat and worrying about it coming off. I didn't miss the stampede strings stangling me..LOL |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1032
Location: IL | I wear a helmet every single time I throw a leg over one of my horses. I even wear one on my super trustworthy mare. Fact is, it doesn't matter how trustworthy or safe the horse is, all it takes is one bad step or spook. I did feel a little silly for a moment the first time I put it on at a race, but that went away pretty quick. Who cares what other people think of you! By wearing a helmet you are actively protecting yourself from an injury and there is nothing stupid about that. I have always been a confident rider and have been asked to jump ride horses for people at jackpots before. Looking back now, I realize how dumb it was of me to jump on a horse I didnt know without a helmet. So dumb of me. And honestly, as confident of a rider as I was before, wearing a helmet has made me much more confident. |
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Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | slacy09 - 2016-02-29 11:48 AM
TwistedK - 2016-02-29 11:22 AM I have an ovation for my daughter. I personally have a Charles Owen AYR8 and a GPA Speed Air Evolution. Both of mine are hunter/jumper style helmets. I love them. My GPA is so breathable.
The price!
I know... I got them much cheaper than that when I worked for the tack store. I have since sold both of them and haven't been riding much. I will be investing in another GPA come fall. |
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Married to a Louie Lover
Posts: 3303
| slacy09 - 2016-02-29 10:16 AM
OhMax - 2016-02-29 10:13 AM slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:50 AM What about equestrian helmets? Why are they different than helmets I see at barrel races? Not sure what you mean? What helmets are you seeing a barrel races that aren't designed for horseback riding???
From a safety standpoint they've both passed the same inspections.
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 1182
Location: Do I hear Banjos? |
I wear mine every ride now. It becomes habit. People tend to make one of two assumptions in the arena...
1: She must be a newbie rider
or
2: Must be a green horse
On trail it's different...They either assume...
1: She must be a Newbie rider
or
2: She must like to go FAST
Eventually if enough of us wear our helmets in the arena...#2 will start to trend toward's the same assumptions as the trail folks. We go so darn fast we need that helmet!
Honestly...I used to run without one as I was insecure and wanted to fit in. Thankfully I have been granted the wisdom of age to where I no longer care what anyone else thinks...I will protect my noggin. Anyone anti helmet just needs to ask themselves...Do I choose not to wear it because I don't think it is a good idea for safety? Or do I choose not to wear it because I don't like how it looks?
Watching the American yesterday I looked at the bull riders. Some wear a helmet with a face shield. Some wear a cowboy hat. I saw two injuries that would have been lessened/prevented if a helmet/face protector had been worn. Both happened to be on the older Brazilian riders. I was glad to see the younger Brazilian wears head gear. Maybe even there the culture is changing. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1028
| I started wearing mine all of the time last year. An accident I had with a colt that could've been much, much worse prompted me to start wearing one. I have an Ovation schooler that I really like a lot; it's so light, I hardly notice it's there anymore. At local races, there may be 1 other person wearing a helmet, but usually it's just me. I do get some looks, however, I think most of that will be changing with the well-known racers that have been wearing helmets. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1074
| Both of my children have Troxels. They have been good helmets. My daughter is 6 about to turn 7 and she's worn her's from 18 months on. She still has the same one. It is adjustable so it has grown with her. My son is 20 months old and he's had his about 2 months. They both know that they wear the helmet or don't ride. I'm going to order myself one and wear it as well. I wear a seatbelt in the truck, why not a helmet on the horse. I like the looks of the new helmets by Resistol that look like a hat, but I'd like to try one on before I buy. |
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 Expert
Posts: 1526
Location: Texas | Troxel Liberty |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 672
| Right now, I do not, but I have been thinking about it lately and don’t think it would be a bad idea. When I was a teen and breaking colts my dad always made me wear one for their first 20/30 days and then I would quit as my pride took over and “nobody wears them”.
Knowing what I do now, and after multiple head injuries (horse, 4wheeler, & car accidents) even the smaller knocks are going to hit me harder. It’s not worth the risk.
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Color Coordination Director
| I am going to attach 3 different Troxel helmets, Can anyone explain to me the difference?
Troxel Liberty
Troxel Seirra
Troxel Cheyenne
 (helmet3.jpg)
 (helmet.jpg)
 (helmet2.jpg)
Attachments
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 helmet3.jpg (5KB - 189 downloads)
helmet.jpg (8KB - 178 downloads)
helmet2.jpg (6KB - 200 downloads)
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Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | mbcruel21 - 2016-02-29 12:34 PM
I am going to attach 3 different Troxel helmets, Can anyone explain to me the difference?
Troxel Liberty
Troxel Seirra
Troxel Cheyenne
The liberty is more of a streamline fit. The Sierra and Cheyenne both have hard plastic with very little padding around where it touches your head. They really fit the round types of heads best. From the picture, it looks like the liberty is more adjustable. |
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Midget Lover
Location: Kentucky | FYI for anyone wanting to purchase a helmet - Troxel's website has a closeout section. Nice helmets for as low as $29.00 -http://www.troxelhelmets.com/collections/closeouts . Ranchdressin.com has a coupon for $5 off using coupon code "SAFETYFIRST" - http://ranchdressn.com/helmets-1/-
Edited by Murphy 2016-02-29 12:58 PM
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | The troxel ES looks to be very low profile! I like that |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1182
Location: Do I hear Banjos? | I wear this Troxel Dakota that is very low profile and comfortable. The adjustment system is clever and easy to use.
http://www.ridingwarehouse.com/Troxel_Dakota_All-Trails_Riding_Helmet/descpage-TDH.html
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 Member
Posts: 6
Location: Indiana | I wore them for a couple years when I first starting going to shows but stopped. I had a bad fall last summer and got a pretty severe concussion. I wear one at every show now to be safe. I really don't care what I look like, better to be safe than sorry. |
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 Take a Picture
Posts: 12841
| I have the Sierra. I had a cheaper Troxel (Spirit I believe) but it did not fit. I used to take my fist like I was knocking on a door and hit the helmet and it hurt. With the Sierra I have done the same thing and there is a big difference. It seems to absorb the shock better. I am on my second Sierra. Riding with them in the summer makes your head hot and one got pretty bad sweat marks. I have a very small head and they adjust easily. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1131
| I wear one when racing. I don't have one right now, since my last one is in about 5 pieces. haha I wear one because I have the worst luck in the world. If something can go wrong in a run, it will go wrong for me. |
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 It's not my fault I'm perfect
Posts: 13739
Location: Where the long tails flow, ND | I want to get my son a new helmet, do a majority of people with toddlers just order the smalls? He's 3
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Location: California | I wear a rated helmet and paid $200 for mine. I've provided a link if anyone is interested in a jock helmet. You can get different covers. (I've thought about putting one of those propeller twirling thingies on the top of the helmet just because I'm goofy like that.) They also have non-rated helmets. I know a jock who suffered a horrible head injury. He was on the brink of death. He suffered for seizures for years and couldn't ride as he was on anti-seizure medication. Finally, he was able to go off the meds and is back to riding and winning. Unfortunately, my husband is still on meds and suffers from depression because he cannot ride. I've also known jocks who were killed even though they had helmets. Helmets don't prevent broken necks and if the field runs over you it may not prevent a severe head injury. I know another top jock who had to quit riding because of a head injury and he had a helmet on. If he didn't have one on, he would have died. At least he is alive and functioning but the doctors will not allow him to ride. I suspect he suffers from seizures as that is not uncommon in head injuries. But he is off the track and moved back East to be with family. Jock helmets are rated and well made. They have to be as if a horse goes down, the animal can roll on top of you, you can get stepped on by other horses, you can have a horse flip with you in the gate and a gateman might not be quick enough to pull you off, etc. Here's my two cents on helmets:
My husband is a famous jockey. He won the Preakness Stakes at age 16. He has been described as one of the best riders ever. His career ended when he was coming back from working a filly in the morning at the track. As he rode her into the shedrow and kicked his feet out of the irons, a groom came running out of a stall with one of those big wheelbarrels made of fabric. That spooked the filly and she went to bucking. She got her rear leg caught in that wheelbarrel and the wreck was on. My husband bailed out of the back but as he was coming down, that filly kicked him in the back of the head right below where the helmet stopped. Back then he wore a Caliente which did not come down in the back of the head enough to be legal now. Because of that injury, he almost died. He had brain surgery and it's a miracle that he lived. He is fine but he suffers from short-term memory loss, depression and a lifetime of grand mal seizures. He is on anti-seizure medication for the rest of his life. Wearing a helmet is mandatory on the racetrack but it is a choice in the arena. A smart choice would be to wear one and not care what your hair looks like when you pull it off. Helmet hair is cool.
http://www.jockeytack.com/en/safety-rated-helmets?pagenumber=2
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 Proud American Patriot
Posts: 8715
Location: Watertown, SD | When I decided to purchase a helmet, I looked to the eventer/hunter/jumper world for direction and decided upon the GPA Speed Air Evolution. It's very lightweight, the air flow is incredible, and it's highly rated. I'm a fainter in the heat but it's so comfortable and cool, I forget that I'm wearing it...even when wearing it for hours at a time. It's spendy but, if you are able, worth every penny.
http://www.doversaddlery.com/gpa-speed-air-evolution-helmet-in-solid-colors/p/X1-36242/
(Sorry. My browser setting won't allow a direct link.)
Edited by srs 2016-02-29 5:33 PM
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Porta Potty Pants
Posts: 2600
| It's been on my mind for months .... my husband and son have asked ... after yesterdays news, I agree. I need to wear a helmet and told my husband I would buy one. I wear shin guards, my seat belt, make my son wear a helmet in karate sparring, hubby wears a vest on duty, they wear helmets when riding motorcycles ... my son wore a helmet when he was riding .. I make my living using my brain ... I can put my ego aside and wear a helmet. |
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 Veteran
Posts: 231
| I wear a helmet every single time I ride. Im a huge proponent of wearing a helmet but for some reason just found it hard to make the switch to riding with one on on a consistent basis, I started riding dressage a few years ago and decided then to just make it a part of my new routine and now that I'm back barrel racing the helmets staying. I ride colts by myself so no one is around if something happens and it was just plain crazy to not be wearing a helmet. I just got my new Fallon Taylor helmets and they are really really nice, they fit really nice, are super comfy and have a lower profile design then my other troxel helmet so they looks really nice on. |
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Expert
Posts: 1286
Location: Mississippi | I wear a Tipperary Sportage and it doesn't make my head hot at all - even in the southern heat. I do agree that it is a sensitive topic and as adults we all have the right to choose to wear or not wear one but it doesn't matter how good of a rider you are, things can happen. People always joke and say "oh well, if something happens, I will go while doing what I love" but do you really want to put your family through that? |
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 I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:46 AM
Sure would be easier if it was just a requirement...then everyone is wearing them and no one feels silly.
No, no, no. Do NOT make ME wear one, it is MY choice.
Feeling silly for wearing one is just plain dumb. If I CHOSE to wear one I wouldn't care what others think ...period. You won't catch me being judgemental about someone wearing one, just don't make ME wear one!
Edited to add; To REALLY protect me I would need to wear one 24/7. I am just uncoordinated like that.
Edited by rodeoveteran 2016-02-29 6:16 PM
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 I hate cooking and cleaning
Posts: 3314
Location: Jersey Girl | I always wear a helmet when on my horse, regardless of what I am doing. Have been for 4 or 5 years. Sometimes I am the only adult rider wearing one at a barrel race.
Last year at the bigger races I attended, I did notice more riders wearing them in all age groups. Still a minority but more people are putting them on.
Edited by fulltiltfilly 2016-02-29 7:15 PM
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I hate cooking and cleaning
Posts: 3314
Location: Jersey Girl | srs - 2016-02-29 6:31 PM When I decided to purchase a helmet, I looked to the eventer/hunter/jumper world for direction and decided upon the GPA Speed Air Evolution. It's very lightweight, the air flow is incredible, and it's highly rated. I'm a fainter in the heat but it's so comfortable and cool, I forget that I'm wearing it...even when wearing it for hours at a time. It's spendy but, if you are able, worth every penny.
http://www.doversaddlery.com/gpa-speed-air-evolution-helmet-in-soli...
(Sorry. My browser setting won't allow a direct link. )
Wow that sure is spendy!! |
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Proud American Patriot
Posts: 8715
Location: Watertown, SD | fulltiltfilly - 2016-02-29 7:18 PM
srs - 2016-02-29 6:31 PM When I decided to purchase a helmet, I looked to the eventer/hunter/jumper world for direction and decided upon the GPA Speed Air Evolution. It's very lightweight, the air flow is incredible, and it's highly rated. I'm a fainter in the heat but it's so comfortable and cool, I forget that I'm wearing it...even when wearing it for hours at a time. It's spendy but, if you are able, worth every penny.
http://www.doversaddlery.com/gpa-speed-air-evolution-helmet-in-soli...
(Sorry. My browser setting won't allow a direct link. )
They aren't cheap and I admit that I had a hard time swallowing the price at first. Then I asked myself what I spend on good feed, supplements, tack, vet bills, pick up and trailer, etc., etc., etc.. Compared to that, the price of the helmet was a drop in the bucket. |
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 Go For It!
Location: Texas |
I have been advocating wearing a helmet for some time now and many of the people who here come for coaching are actually wearing helmets now! I think it's strange how we'll buy a smartphone and the first thing that we do is get a get that Otterbox to protect it. Yet we still have trouble wearing a helmet. I've got way more information stored in my head than I do on that phone, so I'm going to do whatever I can to protect it.
I will say that I see more and more people wearing helmets these days and that is a GREAT thing! If you have been thinking about doing it, just JUMP! It's really not that bad. Helmet hair isn't any worse than any other kind of hat hair, and you might be VERY glad you did one day!
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 Veteran
Posts: 119
Location: TX | I've worn one since I was 8. Practice and in competition. Of course people make fun of you, laugh, etc, WHO CARES! To me...it's common sense. Why would you not seems to be the more appropriate question. For those that complain about being made fun of or they look silly....grow a backbone and quit being so vain. Consider the alternative if you don't.
Edited by dmc62901 2016-02-29 9:56 PM
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Veteran
Posts: 150
| I wear one after a friend suffered head injury at a barrel race. While I believe it's a personal decision, I do wish more would start wearing helmets and I believe we will see more all the time. I don't care at all what others think and like another friend said "I hate to think bull riders are smarter than barrel racers" ! Lol |
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Expert
Posts: 1543
Location: MI | I definitely wear one, and my kids remind me when I forget! We are in the 'Helmet club', and I will do whatever I can for them to keep thinking that it's ok to wear one, no matter who else does or doesn't. I have a Troxel, my second daughter picked it out for me, and whil I match some young kids at barrel races, it's totally ok :). |
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Expert
Posts: 1226
| I never have understood the negative Mindoro wearing a helmet. Or people making fun of others for wearing one. I mean professional athletes like football, baseball, hockey wear one. All these mentioned sports kids have to wear them. And they are not riding a 1200 animal. |
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | There sure is lots of talk on fb about helmets now. I think we will see a big increase. I for one am taking the jump! |
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 "Hottie"
Posts: 1373
Location: Okemah,OK | I've been thinking about it since I had my daughter last year. I know that if she wants to ride when she's old enough, I'll make her wear a helmet. I had already decided that I would by that time just to set a good example for her. This recent accident (especially with her having a young son) had got me thinking about it sooner rather than later. |
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Expert
Posts: 1226
| whiplashranch - 2016-02-29 7:11 PM I've been thinking about it since I had my daughter last year. I know that if she wants to ride when she's old enough, I'll make her wear a helmet. I had already decided that I would by that time just to set a good example for her. This recent accident (especially with her having a young son) had got me thinking about it sooner rather than later.
Totally agree. My daughter is 4 and I make her wear one. I am going to start too. Too many variables when riding. I don't want to chance it. Hopefully it never has to be tested but it only takes one time |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 682
Location: Northwest | I've been wearing one for ~4 years. Ever since I watched a young lady come off a horse that spooked and she went head first into the arena panels and had a head injury. Shortly after that I was riding a horse who never bucked and she just split in two right in the middle of the pattern. I barely missed going into the fence. Went out and bought helmets for me and my daughter that week.
The transition to wearing one wasn't hard for me since I rode English growing up and always wore a helmet. I did feel like an outcast for quite a while because I was one of two that was wearing a helmet at barrel races in my area. Now I see quite a few. |
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 Banned by Booger
Posts: 2168
Location: Huffman, Texas | I wear one now b/c of this
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Member
Posts: 13
| As far as costs go helmets range in price from about $30 - $800. There are a lot of variables as to why the huge cost difference. In reality the price argument is null and void considering the cost of recovering from a TBI can be well over a million dollars. Please make sure your helmet is secure with a taught chin strap, it won't do you any good around your neck (a few years ago a couple of kids were dq'd in the poles a the Iowa State Fair when their helmets ended up around their necks during their runs. Seriously, what good would the helmet do there? Parents were mad but too bad, the rule is the helmet is on and on isn't around your neck.).
My son and I wear Troxels, I wear a schooling helmet and he wears the Cheyenne. He is the only kid wearing a helmet in the ranch riding at the AQHA shows we attend and it's very rare to see helmets in the timed events there, too. I'm often asked how we get him to wear his helmet - a) it's not an option b) he watched life flight carry a barrel racer out of the arena and wants no part of that if he can help it.
I began wearing a helmet when he was born. It's a wonder I'm alive after the concussions and other accidents I had as a kid around horses. I didn't want my kid to grow up without a parent due to something I could prevent and I felt like a hypocrite since I was a 4-H leader in an "Every Ride Every Time" 4-H state. I love my helmets - they are lightweight, comfy and I don't have to worry about them coming off while riding.
Also, you don't have to come off to receive a TBI. In December the horse I was on ran backwards after I mounted and he ran me into a pretty good sized tree limb. It left a dent in my helmet (new one ordered) so I can only imagine the headache/injury I'd have had if I'd been bare headed.
To me helmets are just like seat belts, vaccinations, regular vehicle inspections, well child visits, annual vet checks, a great farrier, sports medicine boots and the plethora of other things we do to and for our horses and kids to keep them healthy and well. They're not an option. |
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 Having Smokin Bandits
Posts: 4572
Location: Woodstown, NJ | I resisted for years but started wearing one a few years ago when I was tired of acting like a hypocrite in front of my daughter who I always made wear one. She never resisted. She grew up wearing one. But I didn't like feeling like a hypocrite. I think it saved my life two years ago. I broke my back pretty badly in two places and my head bounced twice; bounced. But I didn't even have a headache. I would never get on a horse for even one minute without my helmet. I admit. I think they're dorky looking. I miss my cowboy hat.... long hair blowing in the breeze.... but I'd rather have my head. Kudos to Fallon Taylor for setting a great example. |
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Location: California | I can't seem to convince my sister to wear one. She came off one of my horses some years back. I remember jumping into my truck when I got the call and trying to decide to go jump on the horse and get after him or going to the hospital. I was just so mad. I went to the hospital and it broke my heart to see her laying there with a concussion. Then she was throwing up because of the concussion. She still suffers from vertigo but will not wear a helmet. Well she had another bucker launch her on the trail. He just blew out of nowhere and my sister is a hand. She hit her head again but the worst part is that she fractured her wrist. Time for another talk with her. |
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 Expert
Posts: 1718
Location: Southeast Louisiana | I haven't seen anybody making fun of other riders who wear one. I have seen the uncomfortable look on some people's faces as I'm checking out their helmets. Like they thought maybe I was thinking critical thoughts. I wasn't. I must just have rbf.
I want to get one, but just haven't yet. I've been off for a while having a little one. It's definitely more important to me now to be more careful with everything I do. |
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I hate cooking and cleaning
Posts: 3314
Location: Jersey Girl | srs - 2016-02-29 8:46 PM fulltiltfilly - 2016-02-29 7:18 PM srs - 2016-02-29 6:31 PM When I decided to purchase a helmet, I looked to the eventer/hunter/jumper world for direction and decided upon the GPA Speed Air Evolution. It's very lightweight, the air flow is incredible, and it's highly rated. I'm a fainter in the heat but it's so comfortable and cool, I forget that I'm wearing it...even when wearing it for hours at a time. It's spendy but, if you are able, worth every penny.
http://www.doversaddlery.com/gpa-speed-air-evolution-helmet-in-soli...
(Sorry. My browser setting won't allow a direct link. ) They aren't cheap and I admit that I had a hard time swallowing the price at first. Then I asked myself what I spend on good feed, supplements, tack, vet bills, pick up and trailer, etc., etc., etc.. Compared to that, the price of the helmet was a drop in the bucket.
Good point. Is the quality really that much better then a $100 helmet? |
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I hate cooking and cleaning
Posts: 3314
Location: Jersey Girl | heidiinaz - 2016-02-29 10:06 PM I never have understood the negative Mindoro wearing a helmet. Or people making fun of others for wearing one. I mean professional athletes like football, baseball, hockey wear one. All these mentioned sports kids have to wear them. And they are not riding a 1200 animal.
I haven't gotten any negativity from other riders for wearing one. Well, at least not to my face..... |
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Whack and Roll
Posts: 6342
Location: NE Texas | Let's talk helmets and pricing, as I see someone has already mentioned. In reading NonaY's post about the jockey grade helmets, and then thinking about the two I have, one that was very pricey, fits great, but is heavy and hotter than the hinges in the hot Texas sun....the other is light weight, vented, doesn't fit as good and is adjustable. The Charles Owen I have is one of the helmets that is jockey grade. It's very unattractive, doesn't have a visor, is heavy, but it great quality. How many of you feel that these heavier, more expensive helmets offer better protection? Is the rating higher? Why the huge price difference between $60 - $800? I'm not being negative at all, but think it would be valuable to discuss further why some are so expensive and so much heavier, after all, it is our brain we're trying to protect.
I wish some of the upper end helmets would start making some that are attractive and cute like the Troxels are. |
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 Veteran
Posts: 101
| I've gotten a concussion even with a helmet before, but I know it could have been way worse without one. My big thing I tell people is too much money has been invested in my brain for me not to wear a helmet lol. Everyone in a sport takes precautions. I don't see why barrel racers take a risk. |
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 421
Location: Texas!! | I joined the "club" February 8th. I really like my Troxel Rebel! I have the Dakota too, but like the Rebel better. |
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Expert
Posts: 1226
| I'm glad to hear that. I have overheard others make comments about people who are wearing helmets and I just don't understand. Especially how adults can say things. It cracked me up because the same group of people that were making comments all got out ran by the lady wearing the helmet. |
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Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| There is a post on FB about the helmet conversations that essentially saids there is no way to know if a helmet would have helped -which is true but it sure would not hurt, and focus on what they do know, ground conditions, closed gates etc. I agree about better ground, closed gates when necessary but good grief, protecting your head is the one thing you can control and hope that it never has to do its job. |
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Veteran
Posts: 101
| I saw that post too, but if correct she went head first...so how would a helmet not of helped. I mean sure there are various ways to land on your head, but still a helmet could have only added protection. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1079
| grinandbareit - 2016-02-29 8:24 PM I have been advocating wearing a helmet for some time now and many of the people who here come for coaching are actually wearing helmets now! I think it's strange how we'll buy a smartphone and the first thing that we do is get a get that Otterbox to protect it. Yet we still have trouble wearing a helmet. I've got way more information stored in my head than I do on that phone, so I'm going to do whatever I can to protect it. I will say that I see more and more people wearing helmets these days and that is a GREAT thing! If you have been thinking about doing it, just JUMP! It's really not that bad. Helmet hair isn't any worse than any other kind of hat hair, and you might be VERY glad you did one day!
Wow. A truer statement was never spoken. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 408
| I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds. |
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 Maine-iac
Posts: 3334
Location: Got Lobsta? | I pre-puchased the hat helmet for Resistol a couple of months ago, waiting for it to come in to see how it looks and feels. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 838
Location: Georgia | After the spill I took on Saturday, my next investment will be a helmet. I have two children, my life has too much value to lose in another horse wreck. |
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| I started wearing a helmet when I got back to riding after my first child was born. Now I have two kids and we all wear helmets when we ride. I don't do it for anyone but my precious kids! That was my only motivation for purchasing that helmet, I want to be around for my kiddos! I ride everything from colts to old broke horses, and you just never know when something is gonna go wrong, even on the brokest horses! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 865
| I ALWAYS wear my helmet when riding my motorcycle so maybe I need to re-think about that when running barrels |
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I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM
I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds.
That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for! |
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I just read the headlines
Posts: 4483
| rodeoveteran - 2016-03-01 10:27 AM
love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM
I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds.
That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for!
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Veteran
Posts: 264
| I was part of the crowd that made assumptions about those who wore helmets. And then that "never will happen to me moment" changed my life. Trotting....just trotting on the trail and a freak accident causing a fall and severe head injury ended my mothers life.
I had to take a break from the horse world after that but I am now getting back into riding and ready to get to racing again. You better believe I am in a helmet! |
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 Miss Positive
Posts: 3554
Location: Crowder, OK | I think it should b a choice of the person. If they do they do & if not they dont. |
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | I did it...just ordered the low profile ovation schooler helmet
Edited by slacy09 2016-03-01 12:30 PM
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Location: California | My husband doesn't like the new jock helmets. He says they are too heavy. I asked him which helmet he preferred and he says the old Caliente. Such a pinhead. That was the helmet he wore when he got kicked. |
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 Born not Made
Posts: 2937
Location: North Dakota | I will be turning 30 years old next month. Which means I will have been wearing a helmet for the past 25 years.
My grandmother bought all the grandkids helmets when we were little. At the time, I hated wearing mine because we were the only ones who wore helmets and I felt stupid for wearing one. But my mom made us wear them if we were to ride horse (and she wore one too).
Now, I can't imagine not wearing it. And I don't give two licks about what anyone else thinks. It's the first thing I put on when I get to my horse trailer to ride, and the last thing I take off. In addition to barrel racing, I do also show locally. And that helmet is on my head for showing as well.
The only time I "broke" my own rule was when I did the rodeo queen thing for a few years. I had on my hat and crown when doing appearances.
I won't pressure anyone else to wear a helmet, as I feel it is a personal decision. But it sure is nice to see some top barrel racers sporting helmets. I sure hope it catches on more, for obvious safety reasons. In my state of North Dakota, I rarely see another Western adult wearing a helmet .... besides my mother!
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The Advice Guru
Posts: 6419
| Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets.
Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet.
The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet.
So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile. |
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Expert
Posts: 4766
Location: Bandera, TX | I've had two helmets busted in the recent past. One from a kick to the head and the other from hitting dirt hard enough to be asphalt.
I was one in a sea of amazing WPRA barrel racers that wore a helmet for years. Now it's great to see several gals running in helmets.
I was warming up in Odessa several years ago and had a couple of young team ropers goofing off in the arena. It so happens that my nurse/paramedic skills got put into action because one of the guys got dumped on his head. This guy had given me the eye earlier (probably due to my helmet).
It's nice having a world champion team roper now sporting a helmet. |
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Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM
Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets.
Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet.
The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet.
So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile.
works for me |
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Born not Made
Posts: 2937
Location: North Dakota | cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile.
I was kinda thinking the same thing, haha.
I've ALWAYS had my helmet on in profile pictures!
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I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| You can see my helmet in my profile pic.....
Seriously, I think that it is a matter of personal preference and I do not judge anyone that choses to. I DO have a problem when they try to pressure or guilt me in to it. Ain't gonna happen.
Now if I chose to wear one, there is no way I would let what I "think" someone else thinks, to dictate my choices. Grow a pair and wear your helmet if that is what you want to do! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1182
Location: Do I hear Banjos? | cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM
Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets.
Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet.
The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet.
So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile.
Done!
This is once from my current sport as my barrel horse is now retired. |
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Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile. I don't have a pic of me in mine or I would. I have worn it for every race entered since I purchased it . Why the challenge though?? If you wear one fine if you don't fine, let people make personal choices and don't challenge them. There is nothing to feel defensive about on either side of the helmet discussion.
Edited by rodeomom3 2016-03-01 3:10 PM
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1079
| rodeomom3 - 2016-03-01 2:56 PM cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile. I don't have a pic of me in mine or I would. I have worn it for every race of inner since I purchased it . Why the challenge though?? If you wear one fine if you don't fine, let people make personal choices and don't challenge them. There is nothing to feel defensive about on either side of the helmet discussion.
I tend to agree. I think just having such a spirited (and positive) discussion about helmets and the OPs original poll speak volumes about how attitudes in general are changing about helmets. I'm a hat wearer, but Fallon and recent accidents have me seriously considering it. That is something! Cheers to everyone either wearing one, or NOT judging those who do.  |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1117
Location: MI | I dont think anyone's posted this yet - a nice article about Jake Barnes and his accident, now wearing a helmet. Good read https://ehorsetrainer.com/articles/rfd-tv-the-american-team-roping-why-7-x-world-champion-header-jake-barnes-helmet-is-more-cowboy-than
Edited by KDS 2016-03-01 3:26 PM
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Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| star1218 - 2016-03-01 3:08 PM
rodeomom3 - 2016-03-01 2:56 PM cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile. I don't have a pic of me in mine or I would. I have worn it for every race of inner since I purchased it . Why the challenge though?? If you wear one fine if you don't fine, let people make personal choices and don't challenge them. There is nothing to feel defensive about on either side of the helmet discussion.
I agree, there should not even be "sides" when discussing helmets, let's just support each other and our individual choice. |
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 Party Girl
Posts: 12293
Location: Buffalo, Wyoming | For those that wear helmets to run/ride in do you wear it anytime you are around a horse or just put it on when you get on? ?I am curious as serious injuries can happen from being on the ground and not just coming off a horse. I am not a helmet wearer, I am not riding right now due to a knee injury not related to a horse. It is something I would possibly think about though as I ride alone a lot of the time. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 852
| TrailGirl - 2016-02-29 12:11 PM I wear mine every ride now. It becomes habit. People tend to make one of two assumptions in the arena... 1: She must be a newbie rider or 2: Must be a green horse On trail it's different...They either assume... 1: She must be a Newbie rider or 2: She must like to go FAST Eventually if enough of us wear our helmets in the arena...#2 will start to trend toward's the same assumptions as the trail folks. We go so darn fast we need that helmet! Honestly...I used to run without one as I was insecure and wanted to fit in. Thankfully I have been granted the wisdom of age to where I no longer care what anyone else thinks...I will protect my noggin. Anyone anti helmet just needs to ask themselves...Do I choose not to wear it because I don't think it is a good idea for safety? Or do I choose not to wear it because I don't like how it looks? Watching the American yesterday I looked at the bull riders. Some wear a helmet with a face shield. Some wear a cowboy hat. I saw two injuries that would have been lessened/prevented if a helmet/face protector had been worn. Both happened to be on the older Brazilian riders. I was glad to see the younger Brazilian wears head gear. Maybe even there the culture is changing.
Sure, some injuries can be prevented, but I have personally witnessed bull riding injuries that were significantly worse BECAUSE of the helmet and facemask. My husband is a bull rider, and a very good friend of ours got jerked down on a bull, met his head with his chin and was knocked out cold. Broke his jaw in 3 places and left him gathering his chickens for a day, and severe concussion where he could not do much for a month. He still does not remember much of the accident or the following events. The worst part....had he not been wearing a helmet, he would likely have cut his chin, big bruise and walked away. My husband stopped wearing a helmet because of the higher frequency of getting knocked out and jaw injuries compared to when he wore just his hat.
So, when people say a helmet can never hurt....yes it can. They are designed to take the impact and redistribute the force, but where that force gets redistributed can have just as detrimental consequences. |
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The Advice Guru
Posts: 6419
| rodeomom3 - 2016-03-01 2:56 PM
cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile. I don't have a pic of me in mine or I would. I have worn it for every race entered since I purchased it . Why the challenge though?? If you wear one fine if you don't fine, let people make personal choices and don't challenge them. There is nothing to feel defensive about on either side of the helmet discussion.
Why the challenge.
I find it very hypocritical that people wearing the helmets promoting the helmets have profile pictures of them self barrel racing in a cowboy hat, or in a ball cap, or with their hair flowing in the wind.
This either shows you don't wear the helmet as much as you say you do, or you are not proud to own a picture of you competing or riding in your helmet.
If you want more people to wear helmets, actions speak louder then words, by posting a picture it is showing you do what you preach.
And by no way is this directed at one individual |
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Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 5:11 PM rodeomom3 - 2016-03-01 2:56 PM cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile. I don't have a pic of me in mine or I would. I have worn it for every race entered since I purchased it . Why the challenge though?? If you wear one fine if you don't fine, let people make personal choices and don't challenge them. There is nothing to feel defensive about on either side of the helmet discussion. Why the challenge. I find it very hypocritical that people wearing the helmets promoting the helmets have profile pictures of them self barrel racing in a cowboy hat, or in a ball cap, or with their hair flowing in the wind. This either shows you don't wear the helmet as much as you say you do, or you are not proud to own a picture of you competing or riding in your helmet. If you want more people to wear helmets, actions speak louder then words, by posting a picture it is showing you do what you preach. And by no way is this directed at one individual
Edited by rodeomom3 2016-03-02 6:21 AM
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 320
Location: Dubuque,IA | I'm 62 years old and have worn one for ten years. When i first started wearing it I was the ony one and often got funny looks. Now i am refereed to a the "older lady , on the fast horse, wearing a helmet!!!I think all parents of children should start kids wearing helmets so in a fgew years it will be nore normal. When I was a child we never had child seats or seat belts and i think of my helmet just like a seat belt, perhaps one more thing for my safety. I would never drive a vehicle without my seatbelt and NEVER ride a horse without my helmet.I wonder how many parents let their children ride horses without a helmet . BUT use a helmet when riding a bike or use a seatbelt in a car!!!!. |
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 582
Location: Wherever They Send Me | I recently (June 2015) started wearing one when I moved to a new barn; I used to just wear it when I rode my younger horse. My new barn owner says, "Anyone under the age of 18 must wear one and anyone over the age of 18 you can make your own choices, but I would prefer it if you did." It is her barn, Im just a boarder - So I wear mine all the time now. It has gotten to the point, where it feels weird when I dont wear it. |
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I Prefer to Live in Fantasy Land
Posts: 64864
Location: In the Hills of Texas |
That western styled helmet is butt ugly. I was glad to see him wear just a helmet at the American. I would think that other one could get in the way of his rope. I would like to know what kind of helmet it was as it looked more like what a wrestler would wear. |
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | I won't be changing my profile picture because I made the decision today to start wearing a helmet for those 2 little cowboys you see in my pic ! !
Edited by slacy09 2016-03-01 9:09 PM
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 617
| I wear a helmet after fracturing my skull riding. Not only because of what I went through, but because of what I put my family through. |
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Expert
Posts: 4766
Location: Bandera, TX | cn1705 - 2016-03-01 10:04 PM I wear a helmet after fracturing my skull riding. Not only because of what I went through, but because of what I put my family through.
Until, some people go thru this first hand they just don't understand.
It took my friend (Chandra) the full month of February to pass because she was in such excellent health. Her mom asked me to take on riding in a helmet. My first run at Fort Worth (2008) was the last in a cowboy hat and the final run was in a helmet. I have those pictures on my desk as they have a unique from the roof angle. But I think of it as my three angels looking down on me keeping me a bit safer in a helmet as I run three turns as fast as I can.
Look up Coup and Contre Coup injuries. Bull riders are notorious for these injuries. I would much rather be working on a bull rider that wore a helmet as I know his odds are much better in the morbidity/mortality department.
I can see the day that insurance will impact those of us that choose to play in high risk sports. As a professional fire fighter I would never go into a fire without my helmet on. As a jockey years ago I always rode in one. I can't believe it took me losing three friends due to severe head injury from riding accidents before I began to run in a helmet-I knew better!
No family should watch the devastating after effects of a head injury on their loved one.
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 1078
Location: Salem Ky | I wear one. I am seeing more and more wear them. Glad to see that! |
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Industrial Srength Barrel Racer
Posts: 7268
| I am thinking about it. My problem is there isn't anywhere around here (Wichita, Ks) to try them on and I have a PEA-SIZED head (hat size 6 5/8). So I am guessing I will have to wear a child's helmet but I will not buy one without trying several on. I am thinking surely someplace around Tulsa or OKC sells them so that will give me a good excuse for a weekend trip! |
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Industrial Srength Barrel Racer
Posts: 7268
| rodeoveteran - 2016-02-29 6:13 PM
slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:46 AM
Sure would be easier if it was just a requirement...then everyone is wearing them and no one feels silly.
No, no, no. Do NOT make ME wear one, it is MY choice.
Feeling silly for wearing one is just plain dumb. If I CHOSE to wear one I wouldn't care what others think ...period. You won't catch me being judgemental about someone wearing one, just don't make ME wear one!
Edited to add; To REALLY protect me I would need to wear one 24/7. I am just uncoordinated like that.
AMEN, it needs to be a personal choice! (And I plan to start wearing one as soon as I can find one that FITS and isn't HOT). |
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Member
Posts: 13
| Griz - 2016-03-02 5:21 AM
I am thinking about it. My problem is there isn't anywhere around here (Wichita, Ks) to try them on and I have a PEA-SIZED head (hat size 6 5/8). So I am guessing I will have to wear a child's helmet but I will not buy one without trying several on. I am thinking surely someplace around Tulsa or OKC sells them so that will give me a good excuse for a weekend trip!
Tractor Supply, Orsheln, Atwoods and many other location sell them in store and they can be tried on. If you come up to Topeka for Barrel Bash R Bar B sells them, too.
Most western helmets have a system to adjust them to fit you and are a "general" size. I wear a 6 1/2 and do not wear a child's helmet. Some start at a S ("up to a 7") and others have an XS model for up to a 6 5/8 like this style:
http://www.troxelhelmets.com/products/sport?variant=2333277891
Here's some info on fit:
http://www.troxelhelmets.com/pages/helmet-fitting
I don't find my helmets to be hot at all. They are comfy and allow air to flow throughout the design.
Edited by Bobbie1207 2016-03-02 7:14 AM
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1182
Location: Do I hear Banjos? | weder - 2016-03-01 4:43 PM
TrailGirl - 2016-02-29 12:11 PM I wear mine every ride now. It becomes habit. People tend to make one of two assumptions in the arena... 1: She must be a newbie rider or 2: Must be a green horse On trail it's different...They either assume... 1: She must be a Newbie rider or 2: She must like to go FAST Eventually if enough of us wear our helmets in the arena...#2 will start to trend toward's the same assumptions as the trail folks. We go so darn fast we need that helmet! Honestly...I used to run without one as I was insecure and wanted to fit in. Thankfully I have been granted the wisdom of age to where I no longer care what anyone else thinks...I will protect my noggin. Anyone anti helmet just needs to ask themselves...Do I choose not to wear it because I don't think it is a good idea for safety? Or do I choose not to wear it because I don't like how it looks? Watching the American yesterday I looked at the bull riders. Some wear a helmet with a face shield. Some wear a cowboy hat. I saw two injuries that would have been lessened/prevented if a helmet/face protector had been worn. Both happened to be on the older Brazilian riders. I was glad to see the younger Brazilian wears head gear. Maybe even there the culture is changing.
Sure, some injuries can be prevented, but I have personally witnessed bull riding injuries that were significantly worse BECAUSE of the helmet and facemask. My husband is a bull rider, and a very good friend of ours got jerked down on a bull, met his head with his chin and was knocked out cold. Broke his jaw in 3 places and left him gathering his chickens for a day, and severe concussion where he could not do much for a month. He still does not remember much of the accident or the following events. The worst part....had he not been wearing a helmet, he would likely have cut his chin, big bruise and walked away. My husband stopped wearing a helmet because of the higher frequency of getting knocked out and jaw injuries compared to when he wore just his hat.
So, when people say a helmet can never hurt....yes it can. They are designed to take the impact and redistribute the force, but where that force gets redistributed can have just as detrimental consequences.
That's a real shame...and I doubt stands up to the weight of the overwhelming evidence of the reduction of TBI and serious head injuries when a helmet is worn. Reminds me of the folks that say they don't wear a seatbelt because they would rather be "thrown clear" in a wreck because they knew someone who had the freak kind of accident in which a seatbelt potentially caused their injury to be worse etc.
Not telling anyone else what they should choose...but for me...I'll keep wearing my helmet. |
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I hate cooking and cleaning
Posts: 3314
Location: Jersey Girl | UTAHCANCHASER - 2016-03-01 5:33 PM
For those that wear helmets to run/ride in do you wear it anytime you are around a horse or just put it on when you get on?
?I am curious as serious injuries can happen from being on the ground and not just coming off a horse.
I am not a helmet wearer, I am not riding right now due to a knee injury not related to a horse. It is something I would possibly think about though as I ride alone a lot of the time.
I only were it when I am riding. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 408
| rodeoveteran - 2016-03-01 10:27 AM
love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM
I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds.
That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for!
I don't wish it, I truly don't as I think is a personal choice but it would not surprised me any if it does come to that! |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 408
| rodeoveteran - 2016-03-01 10:27 AM
love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM
I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds.
That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for!
I don't wish it, I truly don't as I think is a personal choice but it would not surprised me any if it does come to that! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1032
Location: IL | cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile.
done! :) |
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 Ms. Poutability
Posts: 2362
Location: In my own world | TACKyPaints - 2016-03-02 10:30 AM cheryl makofka - 2016-03-01 12:04 PM Her is a challenge for all you who wear helmets. Change your profile picture to one where you are wearing a helmet. The majority of the profile pictures from the people who say they wear helmets have pictures of riding/barrel racing without a helmet. So if you are proud to wear it, why not promote helmet safety by changing your profile. done! :)
I just started wearing one last year. Don't have any pics of me wearing one. But I am a 35 yr old mom and I make my 12 yr old daughter wear one too. I kind of hate that people look at you funny. But I am seeing more people wearing them even young people and always get a nice nod from them! I know it's not western tradition but you only get one brain!! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1032
Location: IL | I would love to hear the differences in helmets too. I've always wondered about the price difference and what made some so much more expensive than others. Hoping somebody can give an explanation. |
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Miss Southern Sunshine
Posts: 7427
Location: South Central Florida | I have a question, but don't really want to sound argumentative but wasn't the actor, Christopher Reeve, wearing a helmet? I know there is also some information that they can cause neck injuries if you land on certain angles. I would have to look them up again but have been reading so much in the past few days.
In Florida there was a law passed that requires any equstrian events to wear helmets but EXEMPTS Western and Rodeo eventing.
I think it should be a personal choice. Recent events in the Southeastern Rodeo world have caused a lot of conversation. The specific situation that caused a death, I do not believe would have been changed by a helmet. The rider hit the pavement face first at a high rate of speed. As with so many things, I think it should be personal choice.
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 Expert
Posts: 1889
Location: Texas | To anyone contemplating wearing a helmet.
I hadn't in years since I'd switched from Hunter/Jumper to Barrels. Now I usually wear one even just to feed.
I bred, raised, and trained my own prospects and just as they were old enough to be patterned, someone else will be the one to finish them. I spent years building my dream and now I don't even know if I will ever compete again. My life has changed. I went from riding and working 2-4 horses a day to riding a handful of times over the past year and a half. I now ride with a helmet and a magic seat because I don't have the balance I had before. I'm having to disperse most of my horses. Fortunately I have a very supportive husband. I love him and don't want him to have to care for a vegetable. I have lots of days where I am barely functional. It takes a toll on him. I hate that. I detest this person I have become because I am so limited in what I am capable of doing anymore. It's a lonely state to be in because no one understands what you are struggling with. You look ok on the outside so people think you are fine.
I didn't have one major injury. I've had many concussions over the years (never knocked out and some more severe than others). I took a number of what I thought were minor hits over a short period of time which ended up changing my life. According to my neurologist the hits, bumps, and concussions are accumulative. I'm at risk for early onset dementia and CTE.
Even if you don't want to wear a helmet for you, wear one for those who love you. |
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Veteran
Posts: 146
| Cost doesn't effect whether it's a better helmet or not. Just make sure it meets or exceeds ASTM/SEI safety standards and make sure the helmet fits correctly. If you are wondering about proper helmet fit, there are some video's on Smart Pak's web site under the helmet sections on how to fit them properly. Some helmet brands fit heads that are more round shape while others fit more oval shape heads. They make plenty of ventilated helmets also, nice to wear in hot climates.
I've been wearing a helmet for 26+ years, I look like a mushroom head but that's fine, I'd rather be safe. |
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Industrial Srength Barrel Racer
Posts: 7268
| Bobbie1207 - 2016-03-02 7:13 AM
Griz - 2016-03-02 5:21 AM
I am thinking about it. My problem is there isn't anywhere around here (Wichita, Ks) to try them on and I have a PEA-SIZED head (hat size 6 5/8). So I am guessing I will have to wear a child's helmet but I will not buy one without trying several on. I am thinking surely someplace around Tulsa or OKC sells them so that will give me a good excuse for a weekend trip!
Tractor Supply, Orsheln, Atwoods and many other location sell them in store and they can be tried on. If you come up to Topeka for Barrel Bash R Bar B sells them, too.
Most western helmets have a system to adjust them to fit you and are a "general" size. I wear a 6 1/2 and do not wear a child's helmet. Some start at a S ("up to a 7" ) and others have an XS model for up to a 6 5/8 like this style:
http://www.troxelhelmets.com/products/sport?variant=2333277891
Here's some info on fit:
http://www.troxelhelmets.com/pages/helmet-fitting
I don't find my helmets to be hot at all. They are comfy and allow air to flow throughout the design.
Thank you for this info - I don't think the Atwood's in Derby has them but I will sure check! There are several Tractor Supply stores here, so I will check them as well!! |
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I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| TrailGirl - 2016-03-02 7:22 AM
weder - 2016-03-01 4:43 PM
TrailGirl - 2016-02-29 12:11 PM.
That's a real shame...and I doubt stands up to the weight of the overwhelming evidence of the reduction of TBI and serious head injuries when a helmet is worn. Reminds me of the folks that say they don't wear a seatbelt because they would rather be "thrown clear" in a wreck because they knew someone who had the freak kind of accident in which a seatbelt potentially caused their injury to be worse etc.
Not telling anyone else what they should choose...but for me...I'll keep wearing my helmet.
Here exactly, is case in point. My husband was in a rollover accident in a semi 35 years ago. Had he been wearing a seat belt, they would have had to cut him out of the truck IN PIECES. I know, I saw the truck when I picked him up. There was NO room for a body where the seat was. As it was, he walked away from the wreck, literally. He used to pull double bottomed gas tankers. Those guys NEVER wore seat belts as they wanted to exit the truck ASAP if there was a wreck, though the windshield , if they had to kick it out.
My feeling on seat belts, is that they should be standard on every vehicle, but they should NOT be able to stop and ticket you if you are not wearing one. It is coming to the point I predicted when they started passing the seat belt laws. The insurance companies will be able to get out of covering a claim if it can be proved the victim was not wearing a seat belt. The laws were passed to PROTECT the INSURANCE COMPANIES' PROFIT MARGIN. An added bonus is the revenue generated by tickets. I got one ticket for not wearing a seat belt in town, and watched the cop drive away without buckling up. In fact I see many cops driving down the road, unbelted, typing on their computer, on the phone or TEXTING. But they can stop us at random, for any of the above, even drinking a coffee, smoking, or interacting with a pet, in some places. Heck, having a passenger can distract some people unbelievably, so we should all drive by ourselves.....
It comes down to the fact that you can't legislate common sense and you can't legislate accidents from happening. But, oh yeah, there is no such thing as an accident, it is always somebody else's fault. Hubby got hooked by a bull during a performance. Hospital kept asking who was responsible, whose fault was it, to assign blame for the insurance companies. He told them "It was my fault, I didn't get out of the way." They just couldn't comprehend that someone was willing to take responsibility for their own actions and choices.
Maybe , if I had kids to worry about, I would make different choices. I am an organ donor, have told my hubby to pull the plug sooner than later. I am not worried about seeing my kids grow up, graduate, get married, have grandkids. So just let me make my choices and you make yours. And STAND by those choices. Don't worry about what others think!
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 Another Barbossa
Posts: 2187
Location: Central Iowa, surrounded by corn! | https://www.facebook.com/helhat/
I think the blinged up version of this helmet looks pretty good. |
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 Not Afraid to Work
Posts: 4717
| This tragedy has really made me think about making the switch. I wore one as a little little kid until about 5 and then started with a cowboy hat. My nieces wear them when they ride. But I hate hate hate anything on my head. Cowboy hat, baseball cap, helmet etc. I just know I wont wear it on an average day. I would likely only wear one for competition where its required. Then I feel like thats silly...
Anyway, there are enough respectable girls that wear them that I dont even notice them anymore. |
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I just read the headlines
Posts: 4483
| stayceem - 2016-03-02 11:39 AM
This tragedy has really made me think about making the switch. I wore one as a little little kid until about 5 and then started with a cowboy hat. My nieces wear them when they ride. But I hate hate hate anything on my head. Cowboy hat, baseball cap, helmet etc. I just know I wont wear it on an average day. I would likely only wear one for competition where its required. Then I feel like thats silly...
Anyway, there are enough respectable girls that wear them that I dont even notice them anymore.
I, too hate anything on my head. I always overheated, even with a ball cap on. Then, I lost my confidence and wearing a helmet has really helped. I got one with a lot of vents and even in the South Texas summer, it's not bad at all.
But don't feel silly about wearing one only at competitions.
If you won't wear it, don't buy it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.
People should not make fun of people wearing a helmet.
People who wear helmets should not try to make others feel bad for not wanting to wear one.
To each their own, people.  |
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Porta Potty Pants
Posts: 2600
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This is cool looking!
This accident not only got me thinking but my husband is pretty adamant that I wear one for my son at least! Thus, I wore my son's helmet yesterday. Felt like Toad from the Nintendo Mario games ... but oh well. |
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Veteran
Posts: 285
| I know most of us say that won't happen to me. I'm proud that Fallon wears a helmet. She has so many kids looking up to her. Race track jockeys wear helmets, why not barrel racing jockeys too? I mean, you make 3 sharp turns at full speed. One slip and it could be done. I'm really thinking of buying a helmet. I can't say I'd wear it all the time, but running barrels yes. I will probably feel a little insecure wearing one at first, but if it protects my head then I'm all for it. I want to live a long happy life and one day have kids. One slip and those dreams could be over. What if you fall but it doesn't kill you? Just puts you in a vegetable state for the rest of your life. I just think helmets are the way to go and I'm proud of those who are sporting them. I will probably be the only one at the local jps, but Id rather protect myself. Some little girl could be watching and decide she wants to protect her head too. |
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 On the Countdown
Posts: 2934
Location: Texas | Swannranch - 2016-03-02 10:53 AM I have a question, but don't really want to sound argumentative but wasn't the actor, Christopher Reeve, wearing a helmet? I know there is also some information that they can cause neck injuries if you land on certain angles. I would have to look them up again but have been reading so much in the past few days.
In Florida there was a law passed that requires any equstrian events to wear helmets but EXEMPTS Western and Rodeo eventing.
I think it should be a personal choice. Recent events in the Southeastern Rodeo world have caused a lot of conversation. The specific situation that caused a death, I do not believe would have been changed by a helmet. The rider hit the pavement face first at a high rate of speed. As with so many things, I think it should be personal choice.
I have wondered the same thing. It isn't protecting your entire head, a full face helment is about the only way.
I don't want to be argumentative either but it is just my side.
I better wear one at all times because anything could happen. I was in a bad car accident when I was little, didn't wear a seat belt, and still didn't wear one afterwards. The only reason I do now is because it is a law. Yep, I hit the windsheild with my forehead have a ugly scar for a reminder everyday and have major neck issues, but being short and where a seat belt hits me I hate them. |
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Expert
Posts: 1525
| So last night I was riding one of mom and I's many colts that we have had off the track (Spencer), across the street to the cotton field to go ride. Mom had run to the store and like most days I was out there, riding alone. I dont think mom ever breezed him and I know its been over a year or so since he came off the track and could use it by the way he "thinks" he is really firing in the pattern, but I know that he has a ton more to give with his 91 SI. So I gave him a good little warm-up long trotting and loping and said my little prayer, "God, please don't let this horse trip...." as I started to breeze him over the next couple hundred yards. This is the same prayer that I say three days a week breezing the three horses (2 off the track) that I breeze in that somewhat uneven, slightly grown up, cotton field across the street. We breezed about 200 or so yards and when we broke down in a trot I say my usual prayer "God, thanks for the safe trip."...and I breathed my big sigh of relief and finished out the workout.
On the way back I pondered the helmet thing, recently inquiring about one for my daughter, who will have her first playday in 2 weeks...which I will leadline her though, on the same horses that I am breezing...or at least two of them. They love her, heck, they love me. They are broke and sane and athletic...but yet I found myself saying a prayer before a run because I know what can happen, by accident. I broke a lot of horses for the track, rode a bunch of them after, have owned and trained quite a few for barrels....fast AAA ones, not so fast ones....does it really matter? I have said that same prayer breezing all of them over the past 15 years or so.....breathed that same sigh of relief when I was done.
I never stopped to think about how all the jockeys wear helmets, and get to run and then slow down and stop at a somewhat controlled decent of speed.....and why we DONT wear helmets, on the same horses, but with the immediate stopping and turning and then to a closed gate a lot of times or an abrupt stop? Why in the world have I never viewed it that way before...was I so blinded by the stigma?
I remember 10 or so years ago in college all the bullriders were wearing vests for the most part...but not helmets. There was a stigma....but now, when I see a guy riding without one, I cringe....and I think that a lot of people do. The stigma isn't the same as it was and maybe one day for barrelracers it wont be either.
Before, I remember that the girls wearing the helmets were inexperienced horsewomen, either beginners or just didn't have a whole lot of natural ability, or maybe they were on a horse that acted so badly that anyone would have worn a helmet that climbed on board..........but its starting to not be that way.....and I hope one day, IT JUST ISN'T.
I do not ride in a helmet, I do not own one....but I am about to. The truth is it doesnt matter how athletic, or fast or slow my horse is....or how athletic, or fat, or in shape or experienced with all or no natural talent at all that I may be....crap can happen, at any time, at any place.....and a helmet isnt going to always prevent me from getting seriously hurt...but while bones and muscles and things of that nature seem to heal, with the obvious exceptions, heads are not so easy...I for one should know that, as I still suffer from memory loss from my head hitting the window in a truck when I got hit by a drunk driver my first year of college.
The truth is I could not live with myself if something ever happened to my daughter and a helmet would have prevented it. I feel the same way about driving around without her in the carseat. One day she might say, "Hey, I feel like a dork, I'm insecure, and I dont want to wear it." And I cant guarantee that I am always going to have it on my head either. At that time, after she understands the risks of her actions, I might not MAKE her wear one....but FINGERS CROSSED the stigma will be partially if not fully dead and gone...a past-time, like when bullriders didn't wear vests, cars didn't have airbags or seat belt laws....as NORMAL as seeing a helmet on a jockey.
Edited by MOTIVATED 2016-03-02 1:02 PM
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The Advice Guru
Posts: 6419
| Now my next question.
For all that wear helmets, if you have fallen off and bumped your head, and for those who haven't yet,
Have/will you replace your helmet each time?
If you haven't replaced your helmet, do you realize the integrity of the helmet has been compromised, so you are riding with a false sense of security.
Even if the helmet falls off of the horn onto cement, you should be buying a new one |
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 Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | love2ridepre - 2016-03-02 8:57 AM rodeoveteran - 2016-03-01 10:27 AM love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds. That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for! I don't wish it, I truly don't as I think is a personal choice but it would not surprised me any if it does come to that!
We wear them at events... Mandatory.. so what if it is ? it is for the protection of the event arenas as well as you.. I think its a little over the top to say next they will say horses are to dangerous.. Football Players are required .. its a uniform.. we do it.. it didnt change anything.. why should you all not ddo it mandatory at events? does it really make that much differance... at your home or barn do what you want.. the "My choice" yes it is... but at big events it certainly isnt a big deal to thow one on.. it might help if needed... you can run away with this as OMG they take away my freedom but frankly thats absurd.. JMO |
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Bulls Eye
Posts: 6443
Location: Oklahoma | cheryl makofka - 2016-03-02 1:06 PM
Now my next question.
For all that wear helmets, if you have fallen off and bumped your head, and for those who haven't yet,
Have/will you replace your helmet each time?
If you haven't replaced your helmet, do you realize the integrity of the helmet has been compromised, so you are riding with a false sense of security.
Even if the helmet falls off of the horn onto cement, you should be buying a new one
You are supposed to replace your helmet every time you fall and bump/hit your head. That being said, most people do not if there does not appear to be any visible damage, however, the inside of the helmet may be damaged. Charles Owen offers a great helmet replacement program with discounts on new helmets depending on the age of the one that was in an accident. |
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Midget Lover
Location: Kentucky | cheryl makofka - 2016-03-02 2:06 PM Now my next question. For all that wear helmets, if you have fallen off and bumped your head, and for those who haven't yet, Have/will you replace your helmet each time? If you haven't replaced your helmet, do you realize the integrity of the helmet has been compromised, so you are riding with a false sense of security. Even if the helmet falls off of the horn onto cement, you should be buying a new one
Curious if you wear a helmet when riding? |
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I hate cooking and cleaning
Posts: 3314
Location: Jersey Girl | Swannranch - 2016-03-02 11:53 AM I have a question, but don't really want to sound argumentative but wasn't the actor, Christopher Reeve, wearing a helmet? I know there is also some information that they can cause neck injuries if you land on certain angles. I would have to look them up again but have been reading so much in the past few days.
In Florida there was a law passed that requires any equstrian events to wear helmets but EXEMPTS Western and Rodeo eventing.
I think it should be a personal choice. Recent events in the Southeastern Rodeo world have caused a lot of conversation. The specific situation that caused a death, I do not believe would have been changed by a helmet. The rider hit the pavement face first at a high rate of speed. As with so many things, I think it should be personal choice.
His was kind of a freak accident. From what I understand his hand got hung up in the bridle during the fall causing him to land directly on the top of his head. He had a body protector on too and unfortunately just the way he fell it didn't really seem to make a difference. |
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Color Coordination Director
| This has been a really imformative thread I think and I want to say Thank you for everyone keeping it nice and friendly. I know emotions are running high right now. |
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 Last Comedian Standing 
Posts: 10919
Location: South Texas | azsun - 2016-03-02 11:53 AM This is cool looking! This accident not only got me thinking but my husband is pretty adamant that I wear one for my son at least! Thus, I wore my son's helmet yesterday. Felt like Toad from the Nintendo Mario games ... but oh well.
THESE ARE COOL LOOKING I SENT A MESSAGE TO THEM FOR PRICES ETC......ANYBODY HAVE ONE?????
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I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| Bibliafarm - 2016-03-02 1:09 PM
love2ridepre - 2016-03-02 8:57 AM rodeoveteran - 2016-03-01 10:27 AM love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds. That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for! I don't wish it, I truly don't as I think is a personal choice but it would not surprised me any if it does come to that!
Until they tell us all that just owning a horse is too dangerous. THEN what will y'all think?! |
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| I don't feel that helmets should be forced on anyone but saying that it would lead to horses being considered too dangerous to own.... hmmm... we have been required to wear set belts for some time and I'm not concerned about them taking our vehicles. |
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Not Afraid to Work
Posts: 4717
| GLP - 2016-03-02 11:46 AM
stayceem - 2016-03-02 11:39 AM
This tragedy has really made me think about making the switch. I wore one as a little little kid until about 5 and then started with a cowboy hat. My nieces wear them when they ride. But I hate hate hate anything on my head. Cowboy hat, baseball cap, helmet etc. I just know I wont wear it on an average day. I would likely only wear one for competition where its required. Then I feel like thats silly...
Anyway, there are enough respectable girls that wear them that I dont even notice them anymore.
I, too hate anything on my head. I always overheated, even with a ball cap on. Then, I lost my confidence and wearing a helmet has really helped. I got one with a lot of vents and even in the South Texas summer, it's not bad at all.
But don't feel silly about wearing one only at competitions.
If you won't wear it, don't buy it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.
People should not make fun of people wearing a helmet.
People who wear helmets should not try to make others feel bad for not wanting to wear one.
To each their own, people.
Thank you... I guess I was putting my own thoughts through the keyboard as to where I stand on this topic. Conflicted is probably the best word. Again, I catch myself wondering if I should be wearing a helmet but not sure I actually will use it aside from in shows/barrel races where attire is required. My issue with things on my head is visability. When I wear even a small brim hat, I walk around loke a doofus looking up at everything because I am convinced I cant see LOL...
oiy the struggles.. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 1118
Location: The South | snazzy - 2016-03-02 3:23 PM azsun - 2016-03-02 11:53 AM This is cool looking! This accident not only got me thinking but my husband is pretty adamant that I wear one for my son at least! Thus, I wore my son's helmet yesterday. Felt like Toad from the Nintendo Mario games ... but oh well.
A mounted shooter showed us how to make one with a straw hat. It isn't as fancy as these, but you basically just cut the top off the hat and cut slits in it to get it to stretch down over the helmet, and then duct tape around to hold it on. It's like a duct tape hatband lol. Super redneck compared to these though! |
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Location: California | My friend, Melanie Southard Thompson, just bought one of Fallon's helmets! |
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Location: California | Now that Mel has bought one, my sister is finally getting one! She just suffered her second concussion last week. |
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Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| cheryl makofka - 2016-03-02 1:06 PM Now my next question. For all that wear helmets, if you have fallen off and bumped your head, and for those who haven't yet, Have/will you replace your helmet each time? If you haven't replaced your helmet, do you realize the integrity of the helmet has been compromised, so you are riding with a false sense of security. Even if the helmet falls off of the horn onto cement, you should be buying a new one
I will replace mine. I live in the south and also told not to keep it in the trailer as the heat will degrade it. I plan on getting a new one every year or two. |
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Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | rodeoveteran - 2016-03-02 5:03 PM Bibliafarm - 2016-03-02 1:09 PM love2ridepre - 2016-03-02 8:57 AM rodeoveteran - 2016-03-01 10:27 AM love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds. That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for! I don't wish it, I truly don't as I think is a personal choice but it would not surprised me any if it does come to that! Until they tell us all that just owning a horse is too dangerous. THEN what will y'all think?!
well professional football is still playing.. I think its absurd anyone would think this taking effect would come to that.. really....... also we wear them mandatory and no one has told us that. |
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The Advice Guru
Posts: 6419
| Bibliafarm - 2016-03-02 7:03 PM
rodeoveteran - 2016-03-02 5:03 PM Bibliafarm - 2016-03-02 1:09 PM love2ridepre - 2016-03-02 8:57 AM rodeoveteran - 2016-03-01 10:27 AM love2ridepre - 2016-03-01 9:12 AM I am wondering if it will get to a point where wearing a helmet will become mandatory for insurance reasons. I know the USEF requires all riders in English disciplines to wear one while in the show grounds. That better not happen. I am beyond tired of insurance companies dictating things to us. Letting them impose seat belt laws was the top of the hill for this slippery slope. Let them dictate the wearing of helmets and it won't be long before they will not cover you if you participate in ANY dangerous behavior. And owning a horse in itself will be considered dangerous behavior. Be careful what you wish for! I don't wish it, I truly don't as I think is a personal choice but it would not surprised me any if it does come to that! Until they tell us all that just owning a horse is too dangerous. THEN what will y'all think?!
Professional football has class action lawsuits regarding concussions.
As per the seat belts, yes cars are considered dangerous, look at all the laws brought in, no children under 40 lbs in the front seat as risk of death is higher if airbags deploy, speed limits, stop signs, distracted driving. |
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Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | its pretty simple.. it has been mandatory for jumpers and eventers to wear helmuts competing for many manyt years..and now dressage.. and they have yet to tell us horses are too dangerous and taking away any more rights.lol.. why would it be any differant with barrel racers |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 319
| I've decided to actually wear my helmet this year. Wore it at the arena today practicing and plan on wearing it at home and competing. I have a Tipperay Sportage. Very light, forgot I had it on. I live about 90 miles from Hattiesburg where Laura was hurt. Could have happened anywhere to anyone. Her mom posted on FB that she felt God was planning to use Laura and thought that meant she would recover. She passed the next day. Maybe the tragedy of her death will save others by encouraging helmets. I've known I "should" wear one, but now I will. And she is the reason. |
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| weder - 2016-03-01 4:43 PM
TrailGirl - 2016-02-29 12:11 PM I wear mine every ride now. It becomes habit. People tend to make one of two assumptions in the arena... 1: She must be a newbie rider or 2: Must be a green horse On trail it's different...They either assume... 1: She must be a Newbie rider or 2: She must like to go FAST Eventually if enough of us wear our helmets in the arena...#2 will start to trend toward's the same assumptions as the trail folks. We go so darn fast we need that helmet! Honestly...I used to run without one as I was insecure and wanted to fit in. Thankfully I have been granted the wisdom of age to where I no longer care what anyone else thinks...I will protect my noggin. Anyone anti helmet just needs to ask themselves...Do I choose not to wear it because I don't think it is a good idea for safety? Or do I choose not to wear it because I don't like how it looks? Watching the American yesterday I looked at the bull riders. Some wear a helmet with a face shield. Some wear a cowboy hat. I saw two injuries that would have been lessened/prevented if a helmet/face protector had been worn. Both happened to be on the older Brazilian riders. I was glad to see the younger Brazilian wears head gear. Maybe even there the culture is changing.
Sure, some injuries can be prevented, but I have personally witnessed bull riding injuries that were significantly worse BECAUSE of the helmet and facemask. My husband is a bull rider, and a very good friend of ours got jerked down on a bull, met his head with his chin and was knocked out cold. Broke his jaw in 3 places and left him gathering his chickens for a day, and severe concussion where he could not do much for a month. He still does not remember much of the accident or the following events. The worst part....had he not been wearing a helmet, he would likely have cut his chin, big bruise and walked away. My husband stopped wearing a helmet because of the higher frequency of getting knocked out and jaw injuries compared to when he wore just his hat.
So, when people say a helmet can never hurt....yes it can. They are designed to take the impact and redistribute the force, but where that force gets redistributed can have just as detrimental consequences.
This is interesting because I am a fan of the PBR and have watched every episode that has been televised for the last few years. I have quite often heard Ty Murray, Justin McBride, and JW Hart say " that was a good time to have a helmet on". But I have never heard them even elude to the fact that a helmet might have contributed to getting knocked out or making an injury worse. They have talked about the fact that it doesn't take much of a hit to knock riders out like Ben Jones who have suffered so many concussions in their careers. Thus the cumulative effects of multiple concussions.I have also heard them say that some of the older bull riders have tried going to helmets but just could not get used to them. Just the fact that they would try one leads me to believe that they must think there is some extra protection. I asked the physician I work for today (who has no horse sense whatsoever) if in his opinion there would be any downside to wearing a helmet. His reply was simply no. We talked about Christopher Reeves and the most recent tragedy and his thoughts were does wearing a helmet guarantee that you won't suffer a deadly or paralyzing injury absolutely not but he prefers his chances with one. I read the Jake Barns article posted on this thread and it really got me to thinking how true it is that had his accident happened when he was 25 and he would have won his world championship wearing a helmet we would probably see many of today's younger generation ropers wearing helmets because the stigma would be gone.
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Zeal Queen
Posts: 3826
Location: TEXAS | Curious why it's mandatory for every equestrian sport except rodeo....wonder what the thought is there? |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 682
Location: Northwest | UTAHCANCHASER - 2016-03-01 2:33 PM
For those that wear helmets to run/ride in do you wear it anytime you are around a horse or just put it on when you get on? ?I am curious as serious injuries can happen from being on the ground and not just coming off a horse. I am not a helmet wearer, I am not riding right now due to a knee injury not related to a horse. It is something I would possibly think about though as I ride alone a lot of the time.
I always wear one. |
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 Own It and Move On
Location: The edge of no where | slacy09 - 2016-03-03 7:51 AM Curious why it's mandatory for every equestrian sport except rodeo....wonder what the thought is there?
Goes back to the associations. It's mandatory for some of the english sports because they go by AHSA rules. Helmets being required to show dressage horses must be a very new rule. There's several other equestrian sports that don't require helmets tho. Gaited horses, western pleasure horses, reiners, cutters.... it's not just rodeo. |
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Not Afraid to Work
Posts: 4717
| MS2011 - 2016-03-03 9:01 AM
slacy09 - 2016-03-03 7:51 AM Curious why it's mandatory for every equestrian sport except rodeo....wonder what the thought is there?
Well and I think a lot of it goes with attire and the "old west" historical piece. It isnt even legal to wear a cowboy hat in an english pleasure, dressage, etc. There attire requires helmets. Like our western attire requires a cowboy hat and more recently helmets were officially added into the rulebooks at least in some associations up here. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 408
| MS2011 - 2016-03-03 9:01 AM
slacy09 - 2016-03-03 7:51 AM Curious why it's mandatory for every equestrian sport except rodeo....wonder what the thought is there?
I rode Dressage for 30 years (wow, it doesn't seem that long) and there was never a mandatory helmet rule until about 3 years ago when Courtney King had her accident. She was not in a competition arena, if I am not mistaken she was just warming up, the horse tripped and off she went. After that, AGAIN, if I am not mistaken is when the "mandatory" helmet rule came about even for Grand Prix riders.
Now, on a personal note, as I said I rode Dressage for quite a long time and yes, I ALWAYS wore my helmet!. Two years ago this coming April, I bought my first barrel horse (love of my life) and yes, at first I always wore my helmet, not matter what I had that thing on my head, it did not matter if we were at barrel races or working at home. . Around my area, you hardly see anyone wearing helmets at barrel races and YES, I ADMIT it, I did not wanted to be the "newie odd duck" and wear one so... I stopped wearing one even at barrel races. (For the record, NOBODY ever made fun of me when I first started and I was wearing my helmet, if anything, I encountered the MOST CARING, SUPPORTING AND ENCOURAGING group of barrel racers!).
Last month I bought my second barrel horse, a big guy with a big heart and a long stride! It is taking me a bit to get together with him as my other horse is the love of my life and my super babysitter pony! So the transition from one to the other is being a bit challenging but very enjoyable... anyhow... in the wake of recent events I decided to go back and start wearing my helmet.
Dressage riders do not go from 0 to 90 and try to turn a barrel and they have to wear a helmet, I would think it will be good sense for us (barrel races) to wear one, so, my own PERSONAL CHOICE is to start wearing one! As a matter of fact, I ordered a new helmet yesterday and I am going to ROCK IT! and after I am done running, I can wear my cowboy hat (as I look pretty darn good with it too!) |
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 Cute Little Imp
Posts: 2747
Location: N Texas | srs - 2016-02-29 7:46 PM
fulltiltfilly - 2016-02-29 7:18 PM
srs - 2016-02-29 6:31 PM When I decided to purchase a helmet, I looked to the eventer/hunter/jumper world for direction and decided upon the GPA Speed Air Evolution. It's very lightweight, the air flow is incredible, and it's highly rated. I'm a fainter in the heat but it's so comfortable and cool, I forget that I'm wearing it...even when wearing it for hours at a time. It's spendy but, if you are able, worth every penny.
http://www.doversaddlery.com/gpa-speed-air-evolution-helmet-in-soli...
(Sorry. My browser setting won't allow a direct link. )
They aren't cheap and I admit that I had a hard time swallowing the price at first. Then I asked myself what I spend on good feed, supplements, tack, vet bills, pick up and trailer, etc., etc., etc.. Compared to that, the price of the helmet was a drop in the bucket.
I know it's expensive, but when you compare the price of helmet vs cost of hospital bills...doesn't seem like a big deal after all  |
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Banned by Booger
Posts: 2168
Location: Huffman, Texas | I messaged them and the blinged out version of the hel-hat is $350.00...i opted to purchase from someone else KM's Custom Hats, it will be a troxel with the brim part, blinged, $160.00. |
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 Friendly horse swapper
Posts: 4122
Location: Buffalo, TX | I am not a helmet wearer when I ride...however, I autocross my Corvette and there is NO WAY they will allow us on the track without a helmet, and it has to be Snell rated for impact and fire...mine is a full face Bell brand....it's a timed event and we really accelerate and brake hard, cramming these cars around the curves as fast as they will go, nearly doing donuts around some of the ends...the cars and helmets and harness and under the hood mods all have to pass a tech inspection EVERY single event....no one gets a pass.
p.s...my point of this was to illustrate that even though I'm old school about helmets, if I'm forced to wear one to do an activity I like, I will.
Edited by Cindy Hamilton 2016-03-03 12:03 PM
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Miracle in the Making
Posts: 4013
| Cindy Hamilton - 2016-03-03 11:58 AM I am not a helmet wearer when I ride...however, I autocross my Corvette and there is NO WAY they will allow us on the track without a helmet, and it has to be Snell rated for impact and fire...mine is a full face Bell brand....it's a timed event and we really accelerate and brake hard, cramming these cars around the curves as fast as they will go, nearly doing donuts around some of the ends...the cars and helmets and harness and under the hood mods all have to pass a tech inspection EVERY single event....no one gets a pass.
ok pictures pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
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Friendly horse swapper
Posts: 4122
Location: Buffalo, TX | vjls - 2016-03-03 12:00 PM Cindy Hamilton - 2016-03-03 11:58 AM I am not a helmet wearer when I ride...however, I autocross my Corvette and there is NO WAY they will allow us on the track without a helmet, and it has to be Snell rated for impact and fire...mine is a full face Bell brand....it's a timed event and we really accelerate and brake hard, cramming these cars around the curves as fast as they will go, nearly doing donuts around some of the ends...the cars and helmets and harness and under the hood mods all have to pass a tech inspection EVERY single event....no one gets a pass. ok pictures pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Our first event of the year is March 20 at Remington park & we have a test & tune the day before so I'll ask someone to take a couple pictures with my phone...I run in SCCA approved events in the B street class....that means I can only have bolt on mods, no internal engine or suspension or weight reduction stuff or sticky tires...I'm street legal so I can drive to the event instead of trailering it.
Here's my car that I have now, it's a C5 with the LS1 engine....it dynos a little over 400HP...it's not a drag car and it's hard to control too much more HP at the rear wheels in autocross....it is so fun, an adrenaline rush for sure...I feel like I'm showing the world my rebel side alter ego...lol
 (C5 Corvette (400x211).jpg)
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Born not Made
Posts: 2937
Location: North Dakota | Sure, some injuries can be prevented, but I have personally witnessed bull riding injuries that were significantly worse BECAUSE of the helmet and facemask. My husband is a bull rider, and a very good friend of ours got jerked down on a bull, met his head with his chin and was knocked out cold. Broke his jaw in 3 places and left him gathering his chickens for a day, and severe concussion where he could not do much for a month. He still does not remember much of the accident or the following events. The worst part....had he not been wearing a helmet, he would likely have cut his chin, big bruise and walked away. My husband stopped wearing a helmet because of the higher frequency of getting knocked out and jaw injuries compared to when he wore just his hat.
So, when people say a helmet can never hurt....yes it can. They are designed to take the impact and redistribute the force, but where that force gets redistributed can have just as detrimental consequences.
I guess I'm having a hard time understanding this.
How exactly did the helmet make his injury worse?
The rider got hit in the chin by the bull's head. Am I reading that right? I guess I don't understand how the helmet made the injury worse. Maybe you can explain?
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Married to a Louie Lover
Posts: 3303
| They won't prevent every injury but my worry is not always the catostrophic fatal blow, when it's your time it's your time.
But I don't believe in playing roulette everyday with Gods plan. My concern in the cumulative effects of bumps, falls, what we write off as a headache for a few days. If I'm going to live to be 75 I want to do it with as much of my wits about me as possible, my wreck last fall shook me up pretty good.
And yes, to answer the question about helmet replacement - the day after my fall I went out and bought a new one. I replace mine on average each year to 18 months when the inside gets gross because I sweat like a pig in the summer. That's why I choose a moderately priced well fitting helmet so I don't have to swallow several hundred bucks after a fall to replace it. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 623
Location: /ARKANSAS | I looked at my buddy this past week and said I am tired of being stupid, I have had a head injury and you have had a head injury, we need helmets, ours is on the way... We ordered off of Fallon's site. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 1062
Location: Probably On the Road to the Next Barrel Race! | rodeoveteran - 2016-02-29 6:13 PM slacy09 - 2016-02-29 9:46 AM Sure would be easier if it was just a requirement...then everyone is wearing them and no one feels silly. No, no, no. Do NOT make ME wear one, it is MY choice. Feeling silly for wearing one is just plain dumb. If I CHOSE to wear one I wouldn't care what others think ...period. You won't catch me being judgemental about someone wearing one, just don't make ME wear one! Edited to add; To REALLY protect me I would need to wear one 24/7. I am just uncoordinated like that.
explain thr seat belt law then...no no don't mke ME wear one!! |
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Location: midwest mama | So my racetrack jockey/exercise rider/outrider friends have told me that these are the helmets they use or recommend. Some are pretty pricey.
First thing they all said is first and foremost BE SURE THE HELMET MEETS THE CURRENT ASTM/ASTI/SEI GUIDELINES FOR SAFETY.
They recommend Samshield, Charles Owens or LAS brands. As a cheaper option, the Ovation Jockey Helmet, or the Tipperary Sportage.
Don't buy a cheap helmet that is not safety rated - your life is worth more than that. If you are choosing to wear a helmet, and you can afford to barrel race, you can afford to buy a decent helmet.
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Industrial Srength Barrel Racer
Posts: 7268
| Cindy Hamilton - 2016-03-03 12:33 PM
vjls - 2016-03-03 12:00 PM Cindy Hamilton - 2016-03-03 11:58 AM I am not a helmet wearer when I ride...however, I autocross my Corvette and there is NO WAY they will allow us on the track without a helmet, and it has to be Snell rated for impact and fire...mine is a full face Bell brand....it's a timed event and we really accelerate and brake hard, cramming these cars around the curves as fast as they will go, nearly doing donuts around some of the ends...the cars and helmets and harness and under the hood mods all have to pass a tech inspection EVERY single event....no one gets a pass. ok pictures pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Here's my car that I have now, it's a C5 with the LS1 engine....it dynos a little over 400HP...it's not a drag car and it's hard to control too much more HP at the rear wheels in autocross....it is so fun, an adrenaline rush for sure...I feel like I'm showing the world my rebel side alter ego...lol
OMG - this is BAD-A$$!!! |
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I Am a Snake Killer
Posts: 1927
Location: Golden Gulf Coast of Texas | I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet. |
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I just read the headlines
Posts: 4483
| mreklaw - 2016-03-04 9:32 AM
I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet.
I wear a helmet, but I agree with mreklaw. |
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Expert
Posts: 2531
Location: WI | Fallon just posted on fb that March is brain injury awareness month. She has extended her $5 off sale through the end of the month. Use code: SAFETYFIRST |
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Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | GLP - 2016-03-04 10:41 AM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 9:32 AM I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet. I wear a helmet, but I agree with mreklaw.
This is true....... But.. you cant smoke in certain places.. point is.. the facilities can make it a rule to protect theirself..at home do what you want.. |
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I Am a Snake Killer
Posts: 1927
Location: Golden Gulf Coast of Texas | Bibliafarm - 2016-03-04 12:02 PM
GLP - 2016-03-04 10:41 AM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 9:32 AM I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet. I wear a helmet, but I agree with mreklaw.
And how does that protect the facility? |
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 I Want a "MAN"
Posts: 3610
Location: MD | mreklaw - 2016-03-04 3:21 PM
Bibliafarm - 2016-03-04 12:02 PM
GLP - 2016-03-04 10:41 AM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 9:32 AM I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet. I wear a helmet, but I agree with mreklaw.
And how does that protect the facility?
From a lawsuit.. |
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I Am a Snake Killer
Posts: 1927
Location: Golden Gulf Coast of Texas | CE's wrapn3 - 2016-03-04 3:40 PM
mreklaw - 2016-03-04 3:21 PM
Bibliafarm - 2016-03-04 12:02 PM
GLP - 2016-03-04 10:41 AM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 9:32 AM I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet. I wear a helmet, but I agree with mreklaw.
And how does that protect the facility?
From a lawsuit..
Not really. A person can still sue if the facility is negligent in any way. That's how society is now days. Unfortunately. |
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 434
Location: Northwest Florida | It surprises me to see that nearly half of the riders on this poll said yes they wear a helmet, yet when I go to a race I may see 5-10 riders in a helmet the entire day...
I don't wear one. Kudos to all of you that do. You are definitely making the responsible and safe decision. I just feel like there are a thousand things that can go wrong at any moment, and wearing a helmet would protect me against only a very small amount of them. To me the odds of something happening doesn't justify the uncomfortable/unattractive feeling I have with a helmet on my head. And I will pre-counter your counter argument by saying yes, paralysis, loss of brain function, death, would all be far more uncomfortable/unattractive. I just look at the ODDS and I choose to take my chances.
If I were only concerned with my health and safety I wouldn't climb on the back of my fire breathing barrel horse to begin with, lol. |
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Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | mreklaw - 2016-03-04 4:57 PM CE's wrapn3 - 2016-03-04 3:40 PM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 3:21 PM Bibliafarm - 2016-03-04 12:02 PM GLP - 2016-03-04 10:41 AM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 9:32 AM I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet. I wear a helmet, but I agree with mreklaw. And how does that protect the facility? From a lawsuit.. Not really. A person can still sue if the facility is negligent in any way. That's how society is now days. Unfortunately.
They can sue still sure..
why do we have to wear them mandatory if it doesnt help the facility? maybe insurance requires it.. I dont know.why do barns require them? insurance is my guess.. why are people so aganist it? thats my question.... any reason?
Edited by Bibliafarm 2016-03-04 10:19 PM
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Location: South Dakota | I got my Tipperary Sportage today...and wore it this evening while out doing chores, just to get a feel for it, and it feels very comfortable. I have had my head slammed fairly hard with being thrown off a young horse that got tripped up in it's own front legs...so decided that it is time a helmut is going to be a part of my equipment, just like my saddle is. |
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 A Barrel Of Monkeys
Posts: 12972
Location: Texas | BRAT is sponsoring a helmet incentive at their BRAT Attack in April.
A buckle will be awarded in each D to competitors wearing a helmet! No nomination fee, just an incentive.
Maybe this will break the ice and help make wearing a helmet cool! |
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Regular
Posts: 79
| went to the Illinois Horse Fair yesterday and bought my first ever helmet .. it's one of Fallon's and it is very comfortable...I'll wear it for the first time on Sunday when I go ride ... i'll still probably buy the one that Resistol is coming out with that looks like a cowboy hat but in the meantime, I'm going to REALLY try to wear the helmet when I ride
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Regular
Posts: 61
| mandy - 2016-03-02 9:47 PM
weder - 2016-03-01 4:43 PM
TrailGirl - 2016-02-29 12:11 PM I wear mine every ride now. It becomes habit. People tend to make one of two assumptions in the arena... 1: She must be a newbie rider or 2: Must be a green horse On trail it's different...They either assume... 1: She must be a Newbie rider or 2: She must like to go FAST Eventually if enough of us wear our helmets in the arena...#2 will start to trend toward's the same assumptions as the trail folks. We go so darn fast we need that helmet! Honestly...I used to run without one as I was insecure and wanted to fit in. Thankfully I have been granted the wisdom of age to where I no longer care what anyone else thinks...I will protect my noggin. Anyone anti helmet just needs to ask themselves...Do I choose not to wear it because I don't think it is a good idea for safety? Or do I choose not to wear it because I don't like how it looks? Watching the American yesterday I looked at the bull riders. Some wear a helmet with a face shield. Some wear a cowboy hat. I saw two injuries that would have been lessened/prevented if a helmet/face protector had been worn. Both happened to be on the older Brazilian riders. I was glad to see the younger Brazilian wears head gear. Maybe even there the culture is changing.
Sure, some injuries can be prevented, but I have personally witnessed bull riding injuries that were significantly worse BECAUSE of the helmet and facemask. My husband is a bull rider, and a very good friend of ours got jerked down on a bull, met his head with his chin and was knocked out cold. Broke his jaw in 3 places and left him gathering his chickens for a day, and severe concussion where he could not do much for a month. He still does not remember much of the accident or the following events. The worst part....had he not been wearing a helmet, he would likely have cut his chin, big bruise and walked away. My husband stopped wearing a helmet because of the higher frequency of getting knocked out and jaw injuries compared to when he wore just his hat.
So, when people say a helmet can never hurt....yes it can. They are designed to take the impact and redistribute the force, but where that force gets redistributed can have just as detrimental consequences.
This is interesting because I am a fan of the PBR and have watched every episode that has been televised for the last few years. I have quite often heard Ty Murray, Justin McBride, and JW Hart say " that was a good time to have a helmet on". But I have never heard them even elude to the fact that a helmet might have contributed to getting knocked out or making an injury worse. They have talked about the fact that it doesn't take much of a hit to knock riders out like Ben Jones who have suffered so many concussions in their careers. Thus the cumulative effects of multiple concussions.I have also heard them say that some of the older bull riders have tried going to helmets but just could not get used to them. Just the fact that they would try one leads me to believe that they must think there is some extra protection. I asked the physician I work for today (who has no horse sense whatsoever ) if in his opinion there would be any downside to wearing a helmet. His reply was simply no. We talked about Christopher Reeves and the most recent tragedy and his thoughts were does wearing a helmet guarantee that you won't suffer a deadly or paralyzing injury absolutely not but he prefers his chances with one. I read the Jake Barns article posted on this thread and it really got me to thinking how true it is that had his accident happened when he was 25 and he would have won his world championship wearing a helmet we would probably see many of today's younger generation ropers wearing helmets because the stigma would be gone.
Even in the pbr it's still a minority who wear helmets. And look at the other rough stock events. You basically see no one wearing helmets. I agree with the one poster who said its a odds deal. So many diffrent things can happen with a horse, statistically I would doubt your even a few percent safer from getting injured by your horse or because of your horse, wearing a helmet than not wearing one. if it really did increase the odds dramatically of getting a head injury, then why aren't all the prca saddle bronc and bareback guys wearing them? These guys are getting on the rankest bucking horses in the world, and you don't hear of someone getting killed from head injuries weekly. But to each their own. |
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Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| There are so many variables when accidents happen and yes, a helmet is not going to make a difference in every situation but wearing one is for that rare moment that it does. My friend was bucked off and kicked in the head, cracked her helmet in two and pretty safe to say saved her life. She has been riding for 30 years and the first time she has been kicked in the head. So yes, not an everyday danger but she was not playing the odds that the percentage of needing it is too low and is still here today. As far as the rough stock riders, it is an image perception more than anything, does not mean it would not offer protection just because they don't wear them. It is an individual choice as it should be. |
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Expert
Posts: 1631
Location: Somewhere around here | My helmet arrived yesterday and I was so excited to see it and try it on. Fits very very well and I like it, just wish it was even more low profile but maybe if it was then there wouldn't be enough protection! |
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Industrial Srength Barrel Racer
Posts: 7268
| I looked on the Ranch Dres'n site and none of those helmets come small enough for me. I have a feeling I will have a hell of a time finding a 6 5/8. |
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Location: South Dakota | Griz - 2016-03-05 7:31 AM I looked on the Ranch Dres'n site and none of those helmets come small enough for me. I have a feeling I will have a hell of a time finding a 6 5/8.
A Tipperary Sportage size Small will fit you...I wear a 6 3/4 hat and wear a Medium. They are on sale at Valley Vet now for 69.00. |
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 Works Hard For The Money
Posts: 4469
Location: Memphis, TN | Griz - 2016-03-05 7:31 AM
I looked on the Ranch Dres'n site and none of those helmets come small enough for me. I have a feeling I will have a hell of a time finding a 6 5/8.
Look at the Tipperary Sportage it comes in XS and S. You won't have all the fancy color/print options as the Fallon line though. |
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Midget Lover
Location: Kentucky | Griz - 2016-03-05 8:31 AM I looked on the Ranch Dres'n site and none of those helmets come small enough for me. I have a feeling I will have a hell of a time finding a 6 5/8.
That's my hat size also and I just bought a Troxel Intrepid that fits very well. It's a size small. |
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I Am a Snake Killer
Posts: 1927
Location: Golden Gulf Coast of Texas | Bibliafarm - 2016-03-04 10:17 PM
mreklaw - 2016-03-04 4:57 PM CE's wrapn3 - 2016-03-04 3:40 PM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 3:21 PM Bibliafarm - 2016-03-04 12:02 PM GLP - 2016-03-04 10:41 AM mreklaw - 2016-03-04 9:32 AM I believe it should remain a choice as to whether or not you wear a helmet. You don't have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in all states. You can choose to smoke cigarettes even though they are truly bad for you and others around you. You don't have to wear sunscreen even though hundreds die from malignant melanomas everyday. You shouldn't have to buy insurance but now you do! I got a lot more... No I don't wear a helmet. I wear a helmet, but I agree with mreklaw. And how does that protect the facility? From a lawsuit.. Not really. A person can still sue if the facility is negligent in any way. That's how society is now days. Unfortunately.
why do we have to wear them mandatory if it doesnt help the facility? maybe insurance requires it.. I dont know.why do barns require them? insurance is my guess.. why are people so aganist it? thats my question.... any reason?
I'm not against people wearing them at all, I just think it should be a personal choice. For me I have had many injuries over the years and many close calls, but none involved my head. Like another poster said there are many ways you can get hurt in our sport. Why do people refuse to wear sunscreen or other skin protection? I work for Derm Surgeons and see people everyday with skin cancer. The number of young people has increased so much it is scary. Tanning beds increase your risk of melanoma by 75% but we still have people refuse to stop using them. I have worked in this field for 10 years and since seeing this have tried to encourage friends and family to use protection but most still don't. I finally realized it's a lifestyle choice they have chosen. I applaud parents who make their kids wear them even tho it only protects one part of their body. It's a dangerous sport for sure. I have friend that lost one of her sons because they were running and playing in her house and he slipped and fell and hit his head. You take the precautions YOU choose for yourself.
I think more facilities and producers or associations should make judgement calls on whether or not you should be able to run out of the alley or run to closed gate, depending on the facility set up. |
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Industrial Srength Barrel Racer
Posts: 7268
| Thanks for the info on the smaller sized helmets. I want to try some on before purchasing so now, I just need to find someplace that sells them in the store. Our Atwood's around here don't carry helmets. Guess this is a good excuse to have a weekend trip to OKC! |
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