How to measure and fit a riding helmet.
Using a soft fabric measuring tape, wrap it around the widest part of your head (over your hair).
It should follow a line about 3/4 inch above your eyebrows, just above the ear line and around the bump at the back of your head.
Take the measurement in centimetres (cm) and repeat a couple of times for the most accurate sizing.
Unlike most other helmet brands which rely on adjustable or broad size ranges (small/medium/large), Charles Owen sizing is very specific because that ensures the safest and most comfortable fit.
Riding helmet size chart
Use the size chart table below to convert your head size into a standard riding hat or jockey skull cap size.
| Head size (cm) | Helmet size | Skull cap size |
|---|---|---|
| 49 | 6 | 000 |
| 50 | 6 1/8 | 000 1/2 |
| 51 | 6 1/4 | 00 |
| 52 | 6 3/8 | 00 1/2 |
| 53 | 6 1/2 | 0 |
| 54 | 6 5/8 | 0 1/2 |
| 55 | 6 3/4 | 1 |
| 56 | 6 7/8 | 1 1/2 |
| 57 | 7 | 2 |
| 58 | 7 1/8 | 2 1/2 |
| 59 | 7 1/4 | 3 |
| 60 | 7 3/8 | 3 1/2 |
| 61 | 7 1/2 | 4 |
| 62 | 7 5/8 | 4 1/2 |
| 63 | 7 3/4 | 5 |
| 64 | 7 7/8 | 5 1/2 |
| 65 | 8 | 6 |
 Please note these are all approx. sizing
If you are between two sizes, round up to the larger size, or ideally try on helmets in both to determine which one gives the most snug fitting.
How to put a riding helmet on
When putting a helmet on, we are looking to get ‘the lock’. This is a sensation of the helmet latching and gripping onto the back of your head, which means it is on properly, secure and safe.
- Hair should ideally be worn in a low pony tail (if applicable)
- Place your forehead into the front of the helmet
- Using a rolling motion, push backwards to feel the helmet lock into the base of the skull (listen for a suction sound)
- Run a finger around the rim of the helmet to check for gaps or loose points. If there is any movement or gaps you may need to try a different size.
- Always adjust the chin strap first, then tie the back laces with a knot and bow (if applicable).
How should a riding helmet fit?
A new helmet will break in as you wear it and mould to the shape of your head. It should fit like a new pair of boots: snug, with a firm and even pressure all the way around.
Things to check for:
- A snug fit with even, firm pressure around the entire head
- No specific pressure points or gaps
- Helmet locks onto the back of the skull
- Helmet sits level on the head, covering the forehead leaving about an inch above the eyebrows
- With the harness unfastened, the helmet should not rock forwards nor backwards
- The chinstrap should sit just under the chin and gently touch the bottom of the ear lobe, avoiding the throat
- You should be able to put a finger between the strap and your chin
- The harness laces at the back of the helmet should be secured tightly
- Wear the helmet for 5 minutes to give time for it to mould to your head and reveal any pressure points.
Head shapes
Most people have an oval shaped head but some have a rounder shape. The shape of your head can effect how a helmet fits and its comfort.
If you have a rounder shaped head, you may need to be open to trying on a variety of different helmets because models can fit slightly differently.
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