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It is not advisable to use Bike helmets for horse back riding!!!!
Of course they are better than no helmet at all but there are several
compelling reasons NOT to use them if at all possible.
I would quote you from the study made by the American Medical Equestrian
Assocation but I cannot find the report now. In my own condensed form the
reasons against the bike helmets and for the Equestrain helmets is one of
testing procedures. The impact protection for the horse helmets is much
better as the testing procedure calls for resistance to impact on a sharp
edged anvil and the bike helmets are tested on a round edged anvil. In
addition the protruding solidly attached visor on the bike helmets presents
an added hazard as they do not detach and have a large lever arm action to
the head and neck in case of visor impact. The specs for equestrian helmet
visors calls for a detachable visor under minimal impact or a very short
built in one. The coverage to the back of the head and upper neck is greater
in the horse helmet because many of the falls are to the rear and back of
head impact injuries are recorded. The bike falls are more over the
handlebars and the back of the head does not suffer the impact as much.
If any one wishes to get more detailed information on this subject contact
the American Medical Equestrian Assocation 103 Surry Road Waynesville, NC
28786 or call 704-456-3392
You are most likely sorry you asked now but I believe this is important
Bob Morris
Morris Endurance Enterprises
Boise, ID
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