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Helmets - Can they cross sports?

I was asked this by a neighbor and didn't really know how to answer:
Would you consider letting a 7 year old child use their biking (multisport biking/rollersport) helmet as a riding helmet? If it's designed to be safe and protective from falling off a bike or rollerblades, shouldn't it be safe for riding? His helmet is of the more round type labeled "multisport" and not the ultra aerodynamic, more vented, pointy bicycle helmet.

I wasn't sure what to tell her. He wants to try riding, so she was unsure of purchasing a specific equestrian helmet right away. I never used one growing up and have yet to buy one because I haven't had horses in years, so helmet are new to me also.

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Permalink Reply by Kelly on October 23, 2009 at 3:16pm: Horse riding helmets receive an astm/sei rating that is specific to the types of falls that occur from a horse. You can see how much more protection is in a riding helmet versus a bike helmet but just placing them side by side. Additionally, riding helmets extend down the back and sides to further protect falls that occur from the side of the horse, either landing you on your side or back. Furthermore, when riding helmets are tested, an anvil with a sharp edge is used to ensure safety from a horse's foot or perhaps a fence, etc. I give riding lessons and keep extra helmets on hand. I do not allow students to use bike helmets as I have seen them pop off or fall to the side. If it's a money issue, buy used-however you do not know what sort of damage that helmet has occurred. I would put it to the mother as a safety issue. Yes, it's around 100 bucks, but it's worth it for her child's safety. We only get one head!; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Pam Mauldwin on October 23, 2009 at 3:35pm: No. I personally don't let kids ride my horses in any helmets except approved equestrian helmets, mainly due to liability. It makes me nervous, knowing the helmet hasn't been tested for use with horses. I imagine, due to the height and speed differences, that there are structural differences in the helmets, though can't say for sure - just guessing. You can get an equestrian helmet for less than $25 - it's a small price to pay, when it involves the safety of a child.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Melinda Jones on October 23, 2009 at 4:52pm: Thank you Kelly and Pam!
I was pretty sure the riding helmet covered more of the head and neck, but didn't know about the sharp object testing - that's a very good distinction! When I looked at a bike helmet today when I was shopping, it scared me to think how little of the head it covers, especially for side or backward falls. I totally agree that it would be much better to get the riding helmet and well worth the money. I'll pass that along.

Just curious for discussion sake...would you consider wearing a riding helmet while on a bike? Yes, I must have too much time on my hands to be thinking of such things...I apologize *smile*; ▶ Reply to This