Cortez
Tough but Fair
For me, I just can’t see what you gain by not wearing one. What is the benefit? Some safety measures have significant drawbacks, but now with the huge range of hats on offer, I just don’t get why you wouldn’t wear one. Obviously riding is a dangerous sport, and you can’t legislate for all accidents. You take a risk just getting on the horse. But I don’t see why that means you wouldn’t want to take a simple measure to reduce that risk just a little bit? It’s been totally ingrained in me that getting in the saddle requires a hat, I’d feel totally vulnerable without it.
I don't wear a hat BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO. The "totally ingrained" part of your statement above is key; I haven't been inculcated to believe that I will instantly die if I get on a horse without safety gear on. My lived experience has led me to the knowledge that this is not so. If I happen to fall off on my bonce there is a higher risk of me hurting my head, but it is a risk that I am happy to take. If I am doing something that carries a higher risk of me falling off on me bonce, then I will wear one.
Judging by my recent performance walking down the street (I've tipped over twice in the past week: bird poo & a piece of plastic) I would be better off wearing full body armour at all times.