New FEI Helmet Rules for 2027: Is Your Riding Helmet Still Approved?
Do you compete internationally, or are you planning to enter international competitions in the future? Then it is important to check the safety certifications of your riding helmet. The FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale) is gradually introducing stricter requirements for protective headgear. From 1 January 2027, certain older certifications will no longer be accepted on their own, and from 1 January 2028, the requirements will become even stricter.
This means that a riding helmet you have worn for years may soon no longer be permitted at international competitions, even if it is still in excellent condition.
What exactly is changing, and how can you check whether your current helmet will still be approved?
Why Are Riding Helmet Safety Standards Changing?
Rider safety is becoming increasingly important in equestrian sports. Manufacturers continuously develop new technologies to provide better head protection in the event of a fall.
Helmet testing methods are also evolving. These tests assess various factors, including protection against different types of impact, helmet stability and the quality of the materials used.
The FEI has therefore decided to gradually phase out older safety standards and introduce stricter helmet certification requirements.
The changes will be implemented in stages, giving riders and manufacturers time to adapt.
What Changes on 1 January 2027?
Until 31 December 2026, the FEI continues to accept several older safety standards, including the familiar European VG1 certification in combination with EN 1384:2017.
From 1 January 2027, this will change.
A riding helmet certified only to VG1 01.040 2014-12 and EN 1384:2017 will no longer be sufficient for participation in FEI competitions.
Such a helmet may only continue to be used if it also complies with at least one of the following accepted safety standards:
- EN 1384:2023 – the updated European safety standard.
- PAS 015:2011 and subsequent updates – the British safety standard.
- Snell E2016 or E2021 – American safety standards involving extensive impact testing.
- ASTM F1163:2023 – the updated American safety standard.
The older American ASTM F1163:2015 certification will also only be accepted under additional conditions from 2027.
It is important that the required certifications actually apply to your specific helmet. The fact that a manufacturer now produces newer helmets meeting these standards does not mean that older models automatically comply.
Even Stricter Requirements from 2028
The next major change will take effect on 1 January 2028.
From that date, riding helmets used in FEI competitions must comply with at least two of the four accepted safety standards:
- EN 1384:2023
- PAS 015:2011 and subsequent updates
- Snell E2016 or E2021
- ASTM F1163:2023
In addition, at least one of these certifications must be supported by a recognised quality certification mark, such as the BSI Kitemark, SEI or Snell certification mark.
This additional quality assurance is intended to verify not only the original safety testing but also the ongoing monitoring of production quality.
If you are buying a new riding helmet now and intend to compete internationally, we recommend choosing a model that already meets the FEI requirements for 2028.
This will help you avoid having to replace your helmet again after a relatively short period because of changes to competition regulations.
How Can You Check Whether Your Riding Helmet Is Still Approved?
Fortunately, you can check the applicable safety standards yourself on most riding helmets.
Step 1: Remove the Inner Liner if Necessary
On many modern riding helmets, the certification label is located inside the helmet shell, sometimes underneath the removable liner.
Step 2: Find the Safety Standards
The label usually contains information about the manufacturer, model and applicable safety standards.
Look for markings such as:
- VG1 01.040 2014-12
- EN 1384:2017
- EN 1384:2023
- PAS 015:2011
- ASTM F1163:2023
- Snell E2021
Step 3: Check the Combination of Certifications
Does your helmet only display VG1 in combination with EN 1384:2017? If so, it will no longer meet the FEI requirements from 2027.
If your helmet also has a newer certification, check whether it meets the requirements for both 2027 and 2028.
Step 4: Contact the Manufacturer if You Are Unsure
Cannot find the certification label, or are you unsure which standards apply to your particular helmet? Contact the manufacturer or a specialist equestrian retailer for advice.
What Does This Mean for Samshield, KEP Italia, KASK and Other Popular Brands?
Many riders wear helmets from premium brands such as Samshield, KEP Italia, KASK and Freejump.
Over the years, these manufacturers have introduced several generations of riding helmets, and the applicable safety certifications have changed accordingly.
This means that not every helmet from the same brand necessarily carries the same certifications.
An older model may comply with different safety standards than a newer generation. There may also be differences between individual models within the same brand.
It is therefore essential to check the actual certification of your helmet rather than relying solely on its brand or model name.
Important: An older riding helmet does not automatically become unsafe when a safety standard is phased out. It simply means that the helmet no longer meets the certification requirements set by the FEI for international competitions.
Do These Rules Also Apply to National Competitions?
The new requirements specifically apply to competitions organised under FEI regulations.
National competitions are governed by the rules of the relevant national equestrian federation, such as British Equestrian-affiliated disciplines in Great Britain or the KNHS in the Netherlands.
Therefore, a helmet that is no longer permitted at international FEI competitions from 2027 is not automatically prohibited at national competitions.
National federations may update their own safety requirements independently. Always check the latest regulations of the relevant federation and competition organiser.
When Should You Replace Your Riding Helmet?
Regardless of changes to safety standards, it is important to regularly inspect the condition of your riding helmet.
Depending on its age, use and wear, replacing a helmet approximately every three to five years is often recommended. Always follow the manufacturer's specific guidance.
One particularly important safety rule is: replace your helmet after a significant fall or impact, even if there is no visible damage to the outside.
The protective inner shell may have been damaged without any obvious external signs.
Prolonged exposure to heat, intensive use and general wear can also affect a helmet's protective properties.
A correct fit is equally essential. Even a helmet with the latest safety certifications cannot provide its intended protection if it does not fit properly or is worn incorrectly.
Buying a New Riding Helmet? Think Ahead to 2028
If you are planning to purchase a new riding helmet, it makes sense to look beyond the safety standards currently in force.
Especially if you have international competition ambitions, we recommend choosing a helmet that already meets the stricter FEI requirements for 2028.
At Horse Riders Classics, you will find an extensive collection of riding helmets from premium brands including Samshield, KEP Italia, KASK and Freejump.
We are happy to help you find a helmet that suits your personal preferences while also meeting the safety requirements applicable to your competitions.
Conclusion: Check Your Riding Helmet in Good Time
The new FEI regulations mean that some older riding helmets will no longer be permitted at international competitions from 1 January 2027.
From 1 January 2028, helmets must also comply with a combination of at least two accepted safety standards.
Our advice is simple: check your current helmet's certifications well in advance and consider the 2028 requirements when purchasing a new riding helmet.
This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises shortly before an important competition.
Do you have questions about helmet safety standards, or are you looking for a new riding helmet? The team at Horse Riders Classics will be happy to assist you.
This information is based on the safety requirements published by the FEI. Always consult the latest official regulations before participating in competitions.
