A helmet is the single most important piece of equipment you will buy. This one piece of equipment protects the most important part of your rider--their brain. The helmet must fit their head properly and should be fitted by a professional. The fit should be snug on their head, but not uncomfortable. The style of helmet is a personal choice. The rider may prefer a sized helmet or one with an adjustable dial in the back. Either will work and both styles are rated for equestrian falls. Helmets for beginner riders tend to be less expensive. The price increases for helmets designed for specialized types of riding and additional features. All helmets meet the same safety standard.
When you ready to purchase the helmet you should plan to try on a variety of types and brands to ensure an accurate fit. Each brand will fit differently. Some are more round while others tend to be oval. Having the patience to match the helmet to the shape of your child’s head will be critical for safety but also ensure that your child feels comfortable wearing the helmet and it does not distract from the riding experience.
You will need to replace a helmet after a significant fall or after 5 years of use, whichever comes first. Yes, helmets have an expiration date. The wear from normal use as well as exposure to temperature changes and sunshine degrades the plastic and weakens the helmet components over time. Below is the video of my daughter getting her new helmet.