There has been a lot of discussion online following the recent announcement from Charles Owen about upcoming changes to their helmet production. Following news that the company will cease to manufacture products in the UK, Charles Owen confirmed that this means they will stop production of a number of their popular riding helmet designs.
As a well respected brand, it is understandable that this news has been met with concern from the equestrian community.
However, it is important to remember that not all Charles Owen products are affected. The popular Kylo and Phoenix hats will remain available, and Redpost will continue stocking them for as long as supplies remain stable. Charles Owen have also teased the launch of their new Hyda helmet in 2026, which promises to be an exciting addition to their range.
How Redpost Is Here to Help
At Redpost Equestrian, supporting riders through change is something we’re well-equipped for. Our specialists are available to advise on what’s staying, what’s changing, and what may suit you best going forward.
With a team of friendly, fully-qualified hat fitters and a strong selection of trusted brands available, we are on hand to make sure that you get the right riding helmet and the best fit, every time. We’ll talk you through shapes, safety standards, and suitability for your discipline so you can feel confident in your choice.
We offer both virtual and in-store hat fittings and recommend booking an appointment in advance, especially during peak times.
More Choices For You
We appreciate that it can be daunting deviating from your favourite brand or model of hat when certain lines stop and new products emerge. The good news is that there are a wealth of superb options available to meet your requirements.
In this handy guide, we offer some ideas and alternatives to help you make the best choice when choosing your next riding hat.
Yearning for a Young Rider’s Option
The Charles Owen Young Riders Jockey Skull Riding Hat is a triple safety protected, deep fitting helmet that has been a popular choice with young equestrians.
Pick the Perfect Alternative
Champion Junior Plus Skull Riding Hat
A great choice for those looking for a similar fit to the Charles Owen Young Riders Jockey Skull, this hat features a lightweight injection moulded ABS shell with a durable painted acrylic, sanded finish. Crown padding and foam EPS lining offer high levels of comfort. Designed with a quick-release buckle and a three-point fully adjustable webbing harness for stability.
Safety standards: British PAS 015 2011, VG1 01.040 2014-12, British Kitemarked to PAS 015 2011.
Evoke Orion JS4K Junior Jockey Skull Hat
A great choice if you are looking for a safe, comfortable, and an affordable riding hat for a child. Crafted with a durable ABS shell and meeting a host of safety standards, this hat is suitable for a range of disciplines and guarantees top-tier impact resistance while providing triple ventilation for comfort. The Orion is also equipped with a washable liner for easy maintenance and four-point leatherette harness with rear lacing to ensure a comfortable fit.
Safety Standards: Conforms to PAS 015: 2011 standard; VG1 and EN 1384 2023, is kitemarked to PAS 015: 2011 and CE & UKCA Marked.
Seeking Supreme Safety
The Charles Owen MS1 Pro Skull Riding Hat with MIPS is a sought after helmet for those looking for the ultimate protection when they ride.
Find Your New Favourite
EQX Phoenix MIPS Skull Riding Hat
Certified to three international safety standards and incorporating MIPS technology, the Phoenix is a stylish and lightweight skull hat that offers great levels of protection in the event of a fall. Additional features such as a dial-adjustable precision fit, ventilation vents and a quick – release buckle fastening make this a favourite for all disciplines.
Safety standards: ASTM F1163-15, PAS015:2011, VG1 01-040 2014-12.
Uvex Exxential III MIPS Riding Hat
Lightweight and engineered with safety as a focus, this riding hat incorporates MIPS technology for maximum protection. The model boasts a range of design features for rider comfort, such as ventilation panels and an easy to use dial for adjustment.
Safety standards: EN 1384:2023-06, ASTM F1163-23.
Safety and Style
The Charles Owen Ayr8 Plus Leather Look Riding Hat blends safety, style and comfort to offer a striking, low-profile riding helmet, suitable for a range of disciplines. With round and standard liners, this model can be fitted to a range of different head sizes and shapes.
Explore What Else Works For You
Samshield Shadowmatt 2.0 Standard Riding Hat
This hat boasts a polycarbonate exterior and anti-scratch paint for a smart look. A 6-point ventilation system keeps your head cool, while the semi-rigid chinstrap helps to stabilise the hat. The internal liner is made of a ‘shape memory’ type of material for durable comfort. Easily removable, it can be washed or replaced. This hat is available in four shell sizes which are then paired with varying size liners, allowing for a personalised fit that can be adjusted at a later stage if required. Samshield hats can also be customised in a range of ways – including the addition of different finishes, embellishments and panels.
SAFETY STANDARDS: Samshield Hats meet CE EN1384:2017 and ASTM/SEI standards.
KEP Smart Nova Standard Textile Riding Hat
This hat integrates highly innovative technology. A NFC chip placed beneath the front insert stores vital health information, accessible through the KEP App. In an emergency, a smartphone scan can instantly display the rider’s details. The hat comes with a standard, flexible peak but a ‘jockey peak’ is also included to convert the hat to a skull cap. Different liner sizes can be fitted to achieve a precise fit, and visors can be replaced with alternative styles and colours to update your look.
Safety standards: CE EN1384:2023, SEI ASTM F1163-23, ISO 9001.
Strength and Security
The Charles Owen JS1 Pro Skull Riding Hat is a deep fitting hat with an ABS resistant outer shell. The upgraded leather harness with reinforced nylon webbing and suede padding under the chin provides a secure and comfortable fit, ideal for use across a range of disciplines.
Let’s Look At Other Options
Champion X-Air Plus Junior Riding Skull Hat
A classic jockey skull hat, this design effortlessly combines comfort and safety. Perfect for an array of disciplines, the hat features a lightweight injection moulded ABS shell and is secured by a four-point harness in soft suede leather. This hat also benefits from Champion’s X-Air ventilation system and crown comfort padding with breathable mesh inserts to ensure rider comfort.
Safety standards: Conforms to British PAS 015 2011, VG1 01.040 2014-12 and ASTM F1163-15 safety standards.
Gatehouse HS1-V Skull Riding Hat
This riding helmet meets the criteria of the American SNELL test which is currently the most demanding assessment for riding hats. Suitable for a range of disciplines (including cross country), vents allow air circulation around the rider’s head, and the four-point padded harness with Aegis anti-bacterial lining provides extra comfort.
Safety Standards: Conforms to SNELL E2016/2021.
Performance and Comfort
The Charles Owen 4Star Jockey Skull Riding Hat is designed for extreme situations, blending top, international safety standards with cutting edge design, crafted to optimise rider comfort.
Great Alternatives That Meet Your Needs
Gatehouse HS1 Jockey Skull Riding Hat
The Gatehouse HS1 Jockey Skull is similar to the 4Star in terms of fit and offers superb protection in the event of a fall. Engineered with a fibre-reinforced plastic and carbon fibre shell construction, this helmet also boasts an expanded polystyrene impact liner. Other features include a four-point webbing harness for stability and a quick-release buckle for ease. The HS1 is finished with a Gatehouse Airflow lining with Aegis Microbe Shield treatment, helping you to keep the interior of the hat clean and fresh for longer.
Safety Standards: Conforms to SNELL E2016/E2021
Antares Galaxy Race Riding Hat
Combining advanced impact protection and superior ventilation, this hat features a short visor to protect the rider in the event of a fall. Inside the hat are interchangeable washable pads. Three sets of these pads are included with this hat so you can achieve the perfect fit for your head shape. The piece that sits at the back of the head can be removed to allow room for a ponytail or bun if required. Approved for use in racing.
Safety Standards: ASTM F1163-15, EN1384-2017, VG1 01.040 2014-12, CE marking and SEI certification.
Suitable Stability
The Charles Owen Pro II Plus Skull Riding Hat is a triple-standard, precision-fitting cross-country skull hat designed for maximum protection and stability.
Strong Alternatives You’ll Love
KASK Dogma XC Skull Riding Hat
Featuring a moulded outer shell that is both resistant and lightweight, this skull hat has been rigorously tested against rotational impacts. KASK’s patented ‘Fit System’ creates a close and supportive fit at the back of the rider’s head. Riders can also opt for the more cushioned KASK Dogma Lady Fit System, which is especially useful for riders with long hair. The hat also benefits from removable and washable inner padding, ventilation and a hypoallergenic chinstrap.
Safety standards: CE VG1 01.040 2014-12, ASTM F1163-15 with SEI mark, Kask Rotational Impact WG11 Tested.
Uvex Perfexxion III XC Riding Hat
This lightweight riding helmet delivers high levels of protection in case of a fall. The design offers increased coverage at the back of the head and innovative dynamic ventilation. Removable, washable pads help to deliver high levels of comfort. The Perfexxion III XC is also fitted with a simple turn dial at the rear of the helmet, enabling a precise and adjustable fit.
Safety standards: EN 1384:2023-06, ASTM F1163-23.
Elegance and Tradition
The Charles Owen Fian Velvet Riding Hat is an elegant and traditional hat with a beautiful finish, often purchased for showing.
Reliable Replacements
Champion CPX Showmaster Riding Hat
(SPECIAL ORDER – CONTACT US FOR FURTHER INFORMATION)
A stunning luxury velvet show helmet with for classic, heading turning style in the ring. The CPX Showmaster helmet is the perfect choice for discerning riders who want style, substance and classic good looks for the show ring and beyond. Covered in luxury navy velvet with a coordinating ribbon and satin half liner, this helmet is supremely stylish and incredibly comfortable. The hat features a soft, supple four point harness in nude leather that laces for adjustability and fastens with a discrete chrome hook. Perfect for: ridden showing, in-hand showing, jumping, flatwork or dressage.
Safety Standards: PAS015:2011, VG1 01.040, ASTM F1163-15.
Samshield Miss Shield Premium 2.0 Riding Hat
The Samshield Miss Shield Premium 2.0 Riding Hat is engineered from cutting-edge materials, boasting a polycarbonate exterior which is covered with a luxurious alcantara fabric. With a 6-point ventilation system, semi-rigid integrated chinstrap for stability and a detachable liner made from ‘shape memory’ type material, every aspect of this helmet blends comfort and performance. Finished with a stylish wide peak, this is an elegant hat sure to turn heads wherever you go.
SAFETY STANDARDS: Samshield Hats meet CE EN1384:2017 and ASTM/SEI standards.
Sun Protection
Engineered to protect riders from the glare of the sun, The Charles Owen SP8 Plus Leather Look Riding Hat offers comprehensive coverage and a flattering, low-profile fit.
Practicality and Style
Equiline Xanto Sun Visor Wide Peak Riding Hat
Offering reliable protection with an injected ABS outer hard shell and an injected EPS inner shell, this riding helmet also prioritises comfort with its ergonomically designed rear piece, which can also be removed to accommodate long hair. Other desirable features include a durable, flexible visor, front opening ventilation system and a washable inner pad. Padding side inserts (included and customisable) can be cut and inserted at the temples for an even more personalised fit.
Safety standards: EN 1384:2023, ASTM F1163-23.
EQX Kylo MIPS Sparkly Wide Peak Riding Hat
A lightweight, dial-fit design, this stylish hat incorporates MIPS technology and is certified to three international safety standards, offering superb levels of protection in case of a fall. It is also equipped with a removable, washable headband and excellent ventilation for optimum comfort. Fitted with a wide flexible peak, the hat fastens securely with an adjustable, leather-look harness and quick-release buckle.
Safety standards: ASTM F1163-15, PAS015:2011, VG1 01-040 2014-12.
Ready to Race
The Charles Owen Race II Skull Riding Hat is exclusively designed for jockey by industry experts, offering the highest levels of performance and comfort.
Other Contenders
KEP Cromo 2.0 Jockey Matt Riding Hat
Approved for racing, this hat offers optimal protection without compromising on comfort. It comes with an integrated NFC chip beneath the front insert which stores the rider’s health information via the KEP App. In an emergency, the top of the hat can be scanned with a smartphone to access this. Thanks to an advanced mechanical interlocking system, the front and rear inserts, as well as the jockey panel, can be easily swapped out in just a few simple steps to change the appearance of your hat.
Safety standards: Certified SEI ASTM F1163-23, EN 1384:2023, CE EN 1078, CPSC 1203.
Gatehouse R20 Jockey Skull Riding Hat
The Gatehouse R20 Jockey Skull Riding Hat delivers high levels of protection in the case of a fall. Ideal for a range of disciplines, including cross-country or racing, it features four carefully placed air vents for increased airflow and a PU leather harness with rear lace adjustment to achieve a secure fit.
Safety standards: PAS-015:2011 BSI Kitemark.
Safety Standards and Riding Disciplines
The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) have created this useful guide (updated February 2025), so you can ensure the hat you choose is up to the job:
If you have any questions about safety standards and what hat will be the best option for you, call us on 01803 812040 or pop in and speak to one of our specialists in store.
Our Promise to You
Change can feel unsettling, but at Redpost Equestrian, you can rely on us for:
- Clear, up-to-date guidance
- Expert fitting support
- A choice of safe, high-quality helmets
- Friendly advice tailored to you and your discipline
Whether you’re due a hat upgrade, concerned about a specific model, or just want to talk through your options, we’re here to help every step of the way.
