Winter is here and so is our Griffin Guide to choosing a new helmet for the upcoming season and rule changes in New Zealand.

 

Helmet Rule Changes - August 2023

Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ) and New Zealand Pony Club (NZPC) have reviewed the helmet safety standards to ensure they align with international standards, which has resulted in an upcoming rule change on the 1st of August 2023.

From the 1st of August 2023 all helmets must be fitted with a yellow tag to show that they meet the updated standards for competitions and Pony Club rallies.

Helmets with red tags will need to be reinspected and re-tagged yellow, if they meet the new standards.

You can usually find your helmet safety standards / marks on the helmets lining or if you are unsure, feel free to pop in store & we can check for you.

Below is a list of the new approved helmet safety standards from 1st August 2023.

 

Shopping for a new helmet?

Let us help you find the best one. Here is a selection of helmets that meet the new standards:

 

Cavallino Valegro Helmet $195

This is a great entry level helmet, perfect for Pony Club or competitions. It looks great, fits well and is comfortable - whilst meeting the new safety standards.

It has the following safety Standards:

• ASTM F1163-15 with SEI mark (This one means it meets the new safety standards).
• VG1 01.040 2014-12 with CE mark.

 

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Zilco Oscar Shield Helmet $199.90

These are a great looking helmet, popular with endurance riders, show jumpers and eventers due to the sleek channel design for optimum airflow and cooling.

It has the following safety Standards:

• ASTM-F1163-15 with SEI mark. (This one means it meets the new safety standards).
• VGI 01.040

 

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Premier Equine Helmets $269

With two colors in three great styles, these helmets are sure to please. They are an absolute favourite in store! Pre-orders due to arrive in store early August 2023!

• Endeavour - Matte finish with high gloss trim.
• Odyssey - Matte finish with central glitter panel and high gloss chrome trim. 
• Centauri - Matte finish with central carbon fibre panel and high gloss chrome trim. 

It has the following safety Standards:

• PAS015:2011 with BSI Kitemark (This one means it meets the new safety standards).
• VG1 01-040 2014-12 with BSI Kitemark (This one means it meets the new safety standards).

 

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Troxel Terrain with MIPS $384.90

We are a huge fan of Troxel helmets, for their design, safety and adjustability to fit a wide range of riders. These are due to arrive in store late July 2023 & will sell out fast!

It has the following safety Standards:

• ASTM/SEI-Certified (This one means it meets the new safety standards).

 

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Champion Air Tech Deluxe Helmet $483-620

These high quality helmets are hand made in Great Brittan, and conform to the three key international safety standards for peace of mind.

It has the following safety Standards:

• VG1 01.040 2014-12 (This one with the Kitemark below, means it meets the new safety standards).
• ASTM F1163-15
• British Kitemarked to PAS015 2011 (This one means it meets the new safety standards).

 

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Champion Grand Prix Helmet $479-675

Looking to compete in the show ring and want that traditional look to wow the judges - then this is the helmet for you!

It has the following safety Standards:

• VG01 01 2012
• British Kitemarked to PAS 015 2011 (This one means it meets the new safety standards).