When it comes to horse riding, safety should always come first. Whether you’re schooling at home, competing in show jumping or eventing, or enjoying a trail ride, the right protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury. In the USA, equestrian safety equipment is regulated by recognised testing bodies such as ASTM International and the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI), ensuring riders can trust the equipment they wear.
This guide explains the key USA safety standards for riding helmets, body protectors, and air jackets, helping you choose certified, competition-approved gear with confidence.
Riding Helmet Safety Standards in the USA
The primary riding helmet standard in the United States is:
ASTM F1163 (with SEI certification)
For a helmet to be competition legal in most US equestrian disciplines, it must be ASTM/SEI certified.
Why ASTM/SEI matters for riders
Required by organisations such as the USEF (United States Equestrian Federation)
Mandatory for many competitions
Ensures independently verified protection standards
Other standards sometimes seen internationally include PAS 015 (UK), VG1 (Europe), and SNELL, but ASTM/SEI remains the US benchmark.