Driven by continuous research and a deeper understanding of the human brain, riding hat technology is constantly advancing and a great example of this are the best MIPS horse riding helmets. MIPS stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, which is a technology that offers additional protection against angular impact and damaging rotational forces.

Choosing the best riding hat is one of the most important decisions any rider can make, so whether you’re just starting out or an experienced rider, we’re here to help you find the best helmets with MIPS technology.

Best MIPS horse riding helmets

This helmet offers a lightweight, dial-fit design and a fully adjustable leather-look harness with a quick release buckle fastening makes for easy on-and-off. Certified to three international riding hat safety standards and incorporating MIPS technology, it provides great levels of protection to your head in the event of a fall from your horse.

It boasts an array of ventilation vents for a maximum cooling effect and a removable headband that can be easily removed and washed when required, so you can keep your head feeling fresh and clean.

It is also available in a limited edition style in collaboration with This Esme.

One of the latest additions to the Uvex MIPS range, this jockey skull features a hardshell tough plastic outer and lightweight EPS core to deliver reliable impact resistance. Generously sized ventilation channels for maximum airflow. While the built-in MIPS provides additional protection.

A couple of smart features include the buckle with one-handed operation and the ponytail cut-out, which makes the helmet considerably more comfortable for riders with long hair.

This is the first jockey skull within the Evoke range to feature MIPS technology.

The lightweight ABS shell helmet features a a low-profile design with a sanded finish, ensuring a sleek look whether worn with or without a silk. It is fully ventilated with stylised contrast panels and reinforcement mesh, has a soft-touch four-point adjustable leatherette harness with rear lacing, and a removable, washable, and replaceable liner.

One of the stand-out features of this range of horse riding hats is Evoke's industry-first helmet replacement policy, which allows riders to receive a replacement hat at a discounted rate should they suffer a fall within 6-months of purchase.

The Revolve X-Air MIPS peaked helmet offers the same features as the Champion X-Air Plus, but with the addition of MIPS technology.

Made from a lightweight injection moulded ABS shell finished with a durable synthetic suede, with a matching four-point synthetic suede harness and rear lacing adjustment, quick release buckle, a highly ventilated airflow system and removable crown comfort padding.

At first glance, this helmet looks fairly understated with its classic matte shell and glossy frame and airflow vents. However, it's a real powerhouse. The height-adjustable MIPS safety system offers extra protection and complies with the latest safety standards.

The rear 3D IAS system is an easy-to-use dial, allowing you to easily adjust the width and the height of the fastening to suit a range of head shapes. The dial is ergonomically designed to allow for precise adjustment, meaning you can use it without the need to take your gloves off. The button fastening on the faux harness can be easily secured with one hand.

The EQx Kylo MIPS is available in and standard and wide flexible peak design. This lightweight hat has a dial-fit design. Incorporating MIPS technology and certified to three international safety standards, this hat has a luxury look.

It is also equipped with a removable headband that can be easily removed and washed when required, so you can keep your head feeling fresh and clean. It also has an array of ventilation for a maximum cooling effect. The hat fastens securely with a full adjustable, leather-look harness and quick-release buckle.

If you’re on the hunt for a high-tech riding skull with the latest innovative safety features, the Champion Revolve Vent-Air Mips Jockey Skull has it all. As well as meeting three of the top international safety standards, it boasts the high-tech MIPS system.

This jockey skull has a low-profile shell that incorporates a ventilated airflow system for ultimate airflow and a removable padded crown liner in a wicking, breathable material. It has a durable painted acrylic and sand finish that helps to prevent you silk slipping, and features a four-point soft leather harness with rear lacing adjustment.

What are MIPS helmets?

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System and it is a technology used in some riding helmets that offers added protection against angular impact and damaging rotational forces.

When you fall and hit your head, it’s most common to fall at an angle, which creates rotational motion – science has shown that our brains are very sensitive to rotational forces. MIPS can reduce the risk of brain damage by allowing your head to move inside the helmet. This reduces the harmful rotational motion that would otherwise be transferred to your brain.

This technology is not only used in horse riding helmets, but helmets worn in snowsports, motorsports, cycling and climbing, too.

How Does MIPS Technology Work?

MIPS riding hats have a “low friction layer” that sits between the lining and the outer shell. This means if you were to hit your head on an angle (as you do in most falls from a horse) then this layer can slide up to 10-15mm in any direction. This effectively means your head doesn't have to withstand as much of a sudden impact.

When your head is subjected to sudden jolts and movements the brain moves within the skull (as it sits within cerebrospinal fluid), so the aim of MIPS is to reduce this effect of rotational motion and, therefore, reduce the risk of minor and severe brain injuries including concussion.

The video below gives you a visual idea of just what happens inside MIPS riding hats during a fall.

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I tested the Gatehouse Air Rider MKII in black, large size. The most noticeable quality about this helmet is how lightweight and well ventilated it is. When I first tried it on, I found it to have a low profile fit — which looks flattering on my large head!

Another noticeable feature is the helmet’s dial adjustment system at the back. I have never had an adjustable helmet before, and was initially a bit wary of them, however I’ve absolutely fallen in love with this helmet. The adjustment dial allows a comfortable, individual fit, that does not loosen or give while riding – the helmet feels very secure at all times. Its hard peak is also detachable and will easily snap off in the event of a fall – it is worth noting that the helmet is competition compliant, including the recent standard changes that have taken place.

In addition to the above, the helmet also features a detachable Coolmax lining (which is a benefit for summer riding) and a secure four-point harness – it really is extremely comfortable and I often forget that I am wearing it.

I usually get very hot when riding, and I have long thick hair, so I am often susceptible to a terrible case of sweaty hat hair. However, this helmet has been my saviour – it is by far the coolest that I have ridden in and I have barely broken a sweat.

I regularly wear this helmet both at home for everyday riding and at showjumping competitions, as I have found that it is smart enough to compete in.

Verdict

Overall this is a stylish, affordable helmet that looks good without compromising on comfort or safety.

View now at viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

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Our reviewer mostly enjoyed using this lightweight riding hat and loved how well fitted it was

The packaging that came with this black helmet was good with information regarding the hat and it’s features inside.

This hat is kitemarked by BSI to EN1384:1996/BSEN1384:1997 and ASTM F1163:04.

The hat fit was good, with the adjustable back it is obviously designed to fit most head shapes and sizes. It felt secure with a robust fastening and padded inside.

The quality is good for all weathers and comfortable. However because it’s a smaller and lighter shape it does feel noticeably different.

The product feels good in everyday conditions and secure when jumping, however I did fear it was not as protective or secure as other hats but this was purely because of how lightweight it felt and not because it was actually any less safe.

Because of the adjustable size and that it sits slightly higher. It suited my head shape better compared to other brands.

I would recommend this hat to a friend because of the lightness and flexibility in shape and size. It could however potentially feature more padding internally.

Verdict

I like using the product and will continue to use it