Riding Helmet Regulations: VG1, EN 1384, and FEI — Everything You Need to Know
Safety Note (July 2026): Accepted standards and competition regulations may change. Please check the specific model markings and current regulations of your federation or event; a mention of VG1, EN 1384, ASTM, PAS, or Snell does not, by itself, imply universal acceptance.
Equestrian helmet regulations can be confusing. VG1, EN 1384, ASTM... Which one is mandatory? Which one is better? This guide clarifies everything.
EN 1384: The basic European standard
The standard EN 1384:2017+A1:2022 is the minimum European standard for equestrian helmets. It certifies resistance to impact, penetration, and retention systems. It is the minimum legal approval in Spain for competing in basic categories.
VG1 01.040:2014-12: The benchmark standard
VG1 is a specification that appears on certain European models. The FEI publishes a current list of accepted standards and control markings, which must be checked in all international dressage, show jumping, and eventing competitions.
MIPS: Protection against rotational forces
The MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a slip plane between the helmet and the head that reduces rotational forces in oblique impacts. It is not an approval but an additional safety system present in mid-to-high-end helmets.
Comparative table of regulations
| Regulation | Requirement | Required in |
|---|---|---|
| EN 1384:2017 | Medium | Basic national competitions |
| VG1 01.040 | High | FEI, major federations |
| ASTM F1163 | High | Some Western/American disciplines |
| PAS 015 | High | UK (equivalent to VG1) |
Which helmet to buy?
For competition in Spain: minimum EN 1384. If you plan to compete at a serious federation level or in FEI: certification and markings accepted by the current regulations. For beginners and hobbyists: EN 1384 is sufficient.
