Which hat?

[Popos]

I'm looking to but a new hat. What would you recommend and why?

I'm currently wearing a cheap velvet hat. Would this do for dressage competing if I ever did?

I want something for hacking and schooling. I've always had velvet hats before and didn't find the skull caps fitted well and I don't like how they look :/ I realise this isn't a main concern over safety though!

 

[undergroundoli]

I have a Charles Owen kids hat, because the hat fitter at the massive tack shop where I brought it took one look at my head and said 'humm. You're not going to have much choice.'

Bonus is I didn't pay VAT.

I'd recommend going somewhere with loads of stock and asking advice

 

[Popos]

Thanks. I currently have a design headwear (now gatehouse I think) junior velvet hat, so similar issues with small head!

 

[Tedley]

I have had a Charles Owen pro II skull cap for a few months now which I love. I also wasn't sure what I wanted as I've previously only had velvet hats, but after finding the advice online conflicting and confusing I just decided to go to a shop with a big range and try several and ask their advice. I settled on this one as it fitted my head shape best, and I've got myself several different skins so I can change how it looks dependent upon which discipline im using it for. Also I bought a velvet skin which covers all of the hat so it looks like a velvet hat if I want it to. Hope this helps!

 

[Popos]

Thanks that's really helpful. Think I need to go and get properly fitted for one. The one I have I did buy from a tack shop but had it several years and a couple of falls now! It moves when I jump, I always have to readjust it after which I'm guessing means it doesn't fit?

 

[Tedley]

Yep sounds like its a bit loose, it should fit snuggly and the hat fitter that helped me advised that there should be a small amount of what she described as natural suction to keep it in position. But if you go and get fitted they will make sure it is just right for you. Glad to have been helpful!