Is It Advisable to Buy a Secondhand Riding Helmet?
Updated: June 2026 · Rincón del Valle Team
Is it advisable to buy a used riding helmet?
It is not advisable. A riding helmet is designed to absorb impacts only once: if the previous helmet was involved in a fall with impact, its protective capacity is compromised even if it appears intact externally. Buying used without knowing the history introduces a safety risk. The helmet is the piece of equipment where it is most appropriate to invest in a new, personal one.
Why a helmet wears out
The expanded polystyrene (EPS) interior compresses upon impact. Once compressed, it does not recover. The helmet may appear intact on the outside but be compromised on the inside.
Unknown history
Even if the seller says it "has not been in any falls," there is no way to verify this. Small bumps or minor falls may have compromised the EPS.
Recommendation
New VG1 helmets from €30-€50. For beginners, this range is valid. A new affordable helmet is better than a premium used one of uncertain origin.
Related resources
Extended information
When to replace
The helmet should be replaced after a fall with impact, even if it appears visually intact: the internal foam deforms without external signs. Also, when it exceeds 5 years from manufacture, becomes loose due to padding wear, or shows cracks and lining deterioration. Storing it in a cool place and in a breathable bag extends its aesthetic lifespan.
Maintenance and cleaning
The interior should be cleaned with neutral soap if the lining is removable. The exterior should be wiped with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use solvent products or alcohols that can damage the paint. Do not leave it exposed to the car sun in summer: heat irreversibly degrades the internal shock-absorbing material.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a riding helmet last?
With normal use and no falls, between 3 and 5 years. After a fall with impact, it should always be replaced.
Can a borrowed helmet be used?
Only if you know its history (no previous falls) and the size fits your head circumference. When in doubt, a personal one is better.
Do I need a different helmet for each discipline?
It is not mandatory, but dressage values a sober aesthetic, and jumping tolerates more variety. What is non-negotiable is homologation.
