Is my riding hat OK to use?

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Smiler33

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Hi, I've just started riding more regularly (3 times a week yay!!) and am currently using the skull cap I used when I owned a horse 12 years ago; I had it for about 5 years before that so it is in effect 17 years old.

I've noticed that some of the padding around the suede bit that goes around your head (on the inside of the hat) seems to be disintegrating and little bits of the foamy stuff are coming out.

Is it time to retire this hat do you think and get a new one? It's a Charles Owen Pro (PAS 015).

Thank you :)
 
Thank you. It's not the white polystyrene foam; it's grey padding that seems to be on the back of the suede strip on the inside. Not explaining myself very well am I lol!

I think probably it is time to retire this one and get a new one.
 
Yes, I did try on my daughter's skull cap and it was so lovely to wear - shame she won't let her poor old Mum have it!! Think I'll be off to the saddlers tomorrow checking out hats ready for my lessons on Saturday.

Thanks for your advice guys :)
 
It certainly is - doing a Diploma in Horse Care & Riding at my daughter's stables and also found someone who was looking for someone to ride her horses so she has company when she hacks out. I go out with her twice a week with her. I love love love it!!!!
 
Definitely get new hat because it won't be completely fall proof now. I always think that if you're unsure about your hat, get a new one just in case. It's better to be safe than sorry! :)
If you want any recommendations I have a Harry Hall hat not sure what type or how much money but its very comfortable and perfectly fitting :)
 
I had a hat that was maximum ten years old and when I fell on my head it did protect me, but it didn't half bruise my forehead because it was old and hardened inside!

Definitely worth looking after your head! Understatement slightly! Also 100% worth trying on different brands in a tack shop as there are different head shapes. I had mine fitted and was all set to spend 100 quid + *but the only one that fit was a low profile champion skull, not complaining and it does at least have air holes! I tried on other brands and the lady could almost get her hand up the back of the hat as it was oval and my head is round.
 
If it were a motorbike helmet, then I'd say dump it - and likewise a riding hat of any sort at that age.

The reason I am saying bike helmet, is that they are all dated inside them (sometimes on the straps, sometimes insde in the lining) and current advice is no more than 5 years from date. Many bikers can be seen examining them prior to purchase to ensure that they are not buying old stock.

5 yrs is a max lifespan as not only dropping, bumping but also sunlight/weathering has an effect of degradation on the inner and outer shell.
So - yes, bin it & get a new one :)
 
Thanks for all your advice - I went out and got myself a Champion skull cap with black velvet silk so very smart. It feels really supportive and was definitely the best fit for my head; I tried on a few brands but the Champion stood out as the best fit.
 
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