ASTM F1163Standard Specification for Protective Headgear Used in Horse Sports andHorseback Riding

Core Objective

In equestrian sports and horseback riding, reduce the risk of head injuries caused by accidents such as falls, impacts, and crushing by standardizing the impact attenuation, fixation, and stability performance of helmets, thereby ensuring the rider’s head safety in normal use and in foreseeable hazardous scenarios.

 Standard Definition

ASTM F1163 is a specialized safety standard for equestrian protective helmets issued by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International). The current most recent version is ASTM F1163-23. This standard, which is based on ASTM F1446 as the testing methodology, sets forth minimum performance requirements and testing procedures for helmets used in various equestrian activities and horseback riding. It is a core adopted standard in the North American market and among major equestrian associations.

Testing And Certification Requirements 

The product must undergo comprehensive testing and certification by a third-party laboratory accredited by either the SEI or the CPSC, in accordance with F1163-23. Key tests include: four-point impact attenuation testing on a flat surface and a specialized equestrian V-shaped anvil after pre-treatment in four different environments (ambient temperature, low temperature, high temperature, and immersion in water); dynamic load testing on the lower jaw and helmet stability; and structural safety verification for lateral compression, brim breakage characteristics, and other aspects. For children’s models, compliance with CPSIA limits for lead and phthalates is also required, along with the affixation of a permanent certification mark and warning labels. These requirements are mandatory for entry into the US market and participation in competitions.