User guide

PLEASE READ THESE FITTING INSTRUCTIONS VERY CAREFULLY FOR MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY OF THIS HELMET.

  1. Make sure that the helmet is the correct size with a firm but comfortable fit. (WARNING) For children, never select a helmet that is too large on the basis that they will grow into it.
  2. Adjust the fit of the harness whilst wearing the helmet. Insert the buckle on the end of the chin strap into the clip on the harness. To tighten the chin-strap, pull the slack downwards through the buckle and then adjust the rear straps, until the helmet is firmly positioned on the head. If fitted with a draw lace, then adjust the lace at the back and knot securely until the helmet is firmly positioned on the head. To undo the chin strap, squeeze the two prongs on the buckle clip in towards each other to trigger the release mechanism.
  3. To fasten helmets with a metal hook and bar buckle, clip the free end over the hook. Slacken and tighten by means of the metal bar buckle, and position the ‘O’ ring up to the buckle. Press stud the leather above the hook if fitted. Adjust the lace at the back and knot securely. If the leather harness is fitted with an enclosed magnet tab, position the end clip over the hook. The magnet will clasp the hook and tab together.
  4. The helmet should not rock forwards or backwards excessively.

For adequate protection ensure that it is the correct size and fits snugly.

Helmets can move more on your head when riding. In order to ensure that the helmet remains in position during riding, adjust the retention system to ensure that the movement of the helmet on the head is minimal, both for front-to-rear and side-to-side movement This helmet maybe partially destroyed or damaged by a severe blow, even though such damage may not be readily apparent.

The helmet may, after receiving an impact, be damaged to the point that it is no longer adequate to protect the head against further impacts. Any helmet subjected to a severe impact should be replaced by a new one, as a subsequent impact may not give the wearer such adequate protection.

No headgear can protect the wearer against all foreseeable impacts and under certain conditions riding accidents can lead to death, serious injury and long term disability.

Helmets are not designed to protect the head in the event of crushing by a horse.

The materials used in this product do not cause skin disorders or are hazardous for the user health.

If you experience any reaction during the use of this helmet then you should stop using it.

Storage, Use, Cleaning, Maintenance, Servicing and Disinfection

Helmets should be stored at ambient temperature out of direct sunlight. 

This helmet is designed to absorb some of the energy of a blow by partial destruction of the shell or protective padding material or both.  This damage may not be visible and therefore any helmet which suffers an impact should be discarded and replaced by a new one. 

This helmet should not be dry cleaned or exposed to solvents.

When to replace the helmet

Modern helmets do not deteriorate in a bag on the shelf.  The helmet has a stored amount of protection which is used up when the head hits the ground; the damage will not be obvious in the majority of blows. A helmet should always be replaced if the rider has lost consciousness or suffered a severe headache after the blow. All other blows may have reduced the protection which may be required in the next fall. Remember the damage to the helmet is caused by the primary impact site and any contact with the horse. If a helmet has had no blows, then other factors should be considered: fit of the helmet, condition of the helmet, and out-of-date designs.

Care Instructions

A helmet is designed to be weaker than your head.  Do not do things to the helmet that you would not do to your head. Do not subject the helmet to temperatures above 50oC or below -20 oC. Do not store the helmet in direct sunlight.

Cleaning of the interior should be done using Charles Owen helmet cleaning products, foamed detergents or shampoo and water followed by vacuum drying the lining. It is important to use the minimum amount of water as helmets are difficult to dry and easily become mouldy. With any cleaning agent, it is important to try a small section to establish any allergic reaction. After riding, leave the helmet in a warm dry place overnight. 

Do not dry in front of a fire or a radiator.  Do not store it in a plastic bag before it is dry.  This will reduce the risk of rusting the metal components. Mud on velvet is best left to dry and then brushed off.  The pile of the fabric can be revived by holding the hat in steam from a boiling kettle (excluding Ayr8® Classic).

Suitable accessories and spare parts

Accessories not approved by Charles Owen COMFG Ltd may affect the functionality and the performance of the helmet.

Limit of use of PPE

This helmet is designed to be used whilst riding horses or ponies.

Obsolescence deadline

See “When to replace the helmet.” Under normal usage, a helmet will last between three and five years.  If you use the product more frequently, then the helmet may need replacing more often.

Type of packaging suitable for transport

The packaging should avoid the helmet being crushed and becoming wet.

Significant markings

The kitemark signifies that this helmet has been manufactured under the control of BSI (0086) MK5 8PP, UK. The SEI logo signifies that this helmet has been manufactured under the control of the Safety Equipment Institute (USA).

This helmet has been manufactured by Charles Owen COMFG Ltd, Royal Works, Croesfoel Industrial Park, Wrexham, LL14 4BJ, UK