FEI mandating safety hats

[milliepops]

http://www.eurodressage.com/2019/11/19/fei-adopts-protective-headgear-requirement-all-riders-2021

It's finally happening!

I know it's the right thing, that goes without saying. but the traditionalist in me will miss the top hats and it was a (stupid but enjoyable) milestone to wear mine. I wonder whether many people will opt for the safety toppers or whether they will just vanish now.

 

[jj_87]

Finally!!! I recon they will vanish. Having lost a friend who used to live life on the wild side, but sadly died after falling off his bike and hitting his head on the curb it makes me shudder when i see people hatless! Horse or Bike!!

 

[AandK]

I am surprised it has taken this long to be honest. I thought the hats looked a bit strange when people started wearing them instead of a top hat, but now I think the top hat looks rather outdated. There are so many lovely smart and close fitting hats available these days, I much prefer the look now.

 

[HufflyPuffly]

It is without doubt the sensible thing to do, and going forwards I would have always worn my crash hat anyway, but ah I'm still glad I got my chances lol.

 

[nikkimariet]

I never opted to wear a top hat. I used to ride without a hat, now I wouldn't dream of it.

 

[Alibear]

I need to find more info but it would potentially be a new look for FEI reining if it stays

 

[humblepie]

My top hat’s last outing was a 1920s murder mystery when I decided on the Marlene Deitrich cabaret style look. That said I show so in theory could still wear it for championships but been there done that got the photos and stick with the safety hat now

 

[daffy44]

I'm fine with the new ruling, surprised it took so long. My top hat was no where near as comfortable or as stable as my proper hat, and I never wear it anymore.

 

[ycbm]

I think it's a shame. I loved the tradition of them. Everyone who wore one was an adult making a personal choice, but those choices are being eroded in all sorts of areas.


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[TPO]

I need to find more info but it would potentially be a new look for FEI reining if it stays

Yip, reiners too now that it's staying.

Having to try and keep horses sound enough (& not use anything on the banned substance list while doing that) to reach the lower age limits to compete in FEI and now safety headgear?! I'm imaging some not happy people 🤠

I'm the same in that I now view helmet and tails as the norm and find top hats look completely ridiculous to me now.

Charlotte and Carl did a good job of making helmets acceptable in that sphere IMO