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Body Protector Rules 2023
HAT RULES 2023
Hats
It is mandatory for all Members to wear a protective helmet at all times when mounted with
a chinstrap fastened and adjusted so as to prevent movement of the hat in the event of a fall.
This rule defines the quality of manufacture that is required. The individual Sports also have
additional requirements with regard to colour and type. It is strongly recommended that
second-hand hats are not purchased.
The hat standards accepted are detailed in the table below:
In order to ensure riders are wearing the most up to date riding hats, please note that from the 1st
January 2023, the following hat standards will no longer be accepted, due to the age of hats made
to these standards:
1. PAS O15 1998
2. SNELL 2001
To manage this change, a new colour of hat tag will be required for all BE, PC and BRC activities
from 1st January 2023.
• For cross country riding (80cm and over) including Eventing, Tetrathlon, Horse Trials,
Pony Racing (whether it be tests, rallies, competition or training) and Mounted Games
competitions, a jockey skull cap must be worn with no fixed peak, peak type
extensions or noticeable protuberances above the eyes or to the front, and should
have an even round or elliptical shape with a smooth or slightly abrasive surface,
having no peak or peak type extensions. Noticeable protuberances above the eyes or
to the front not greater than 5mm, smooth and rounded in nature are permitted. A
removable hat cover with a light flexible peak may be used if required.
• It is strongly recommended that a jockey skull cap is worn for cross country riding over
lower fences (less than 80cm).
• No recording device is permitted (e.g. hat cameras) as they may have a negative effect
on the performance of the hat in the event of a fall.
• The fit of the hat and the adjustment of the harness are as crucial as the quality.
Members are advised to try several makes to find the best fit. The hat should not move
on the head when the head is tipped forward. Most helmet manufacturers
recommend you visit a qualified BETA fitter.
• Hats must be replaced after a severe impact as subsequent protection will be
significantly reduced. Hats deteriorate with age and should be replaced after three to
five years depending upon the amount of use.
• Hats must be worn at all times (including at prize-giving) when mounted with a
chinstrap fastened and adjusted so as to prevent movement of the hat in the event of
a fall.
• The Official Steward/Organiser may, at his discretion, eliminate a competitor riding in
the area of the competition without a hat or with the chinstrap unfastened or with a
hat that does not comply with these standards.
Hat Checks and Tagging
The Pony Club and its Branches and Centres will appoint Officials, who are familiar with The
Pony Club hat rule, to carry out hat checks and tag each hat that complies with the
requirements set out in the hat rule with a Pink Pony Club hat tag.
However, The Pony Club reserves the right to randomly spot check any hat regardless of whether it is already tagged.
If you are thinking of purchasing a new hat or body protector this year, please be aware of the following changes:
January 2023
In order to ensure riders are wearing the most up to date riding hats, please note that from the 1st January 2023, the following hat standards will no longer be accepted, due to the age of hats made to these standards:
1. PAS 015 1998
2. SNELL 2001
To manage this change, a new colour of hat tag will be required for all BE, PC and BRC activities from 1st January 2023. Pony Club is Pink.