Troxel Helmets

TROXEL is the world's leading provider of ASTM / SEI Certified Equestrian Helmets, having provided

Riding without a helmet and ready for the world leader in ASTM/SEI-certified equestrian protection?

Reviewed by Ann Pruitt, InfoHorse.com · Updated April 2026

Troxel Helmets

TROXEL is the world's leading provider of ASTM / SEI Certified Equestrian Helmets, having provided over four million helmets to the equestrian market.

If You Aren’t Riding With a Helmet on, You Shouldn’t Be Riding!
Few things in life can equal the joy and thrill that riding your horse can provide. But experienced riders know that even the best trained, most willing equine partners, can have a bad moment and loose a rider to a fall. Leaving your head unprotected is taking a risk that can have expensive and long term consequences. No one understands design, protection, function and elegance like Troxel. Since 1992, Troxel has been providing leadership toward reducing equestrian related head injuries and deaths. Ride with Troxel and you can ride with confidence!

Why Should I Choose a Troxel Over Other Helmets?

Here are some of the reason's choosing a Troxel Helmet is the right choice for any rider:

Pioneered Helmet Safety: Troxel was the first to develop a light-weight vented ASTM/SEI certified equestrian helmet.

Physician Developed:Troxel is the only physician-developed equestrian helmet line. Since 1992, Troxel has been providing USA leadership towards reducing equestrian related head injuries and deaths. Dr. Timms' background as a specialist in critical care, and as a research professor at The Scripps Institute and University of California, provides the foundation for Troxel's advanced research and innovative products.

Expertise: Dr. Timms has served on the board of the National Brain Injury Association, and was an expert consultant to the State of California Department of Public Health on all injury monitoring and prevention efforts. Today, Dr. Timms is a member of the ASTM committee on head protection and consults Troxel's research and development efforts.

Comprehensive Collections: Troxel offers helmets and accessories for all riders, English and Western alike.

We Do Our Research: After producing superior English and schooling styled helmets for many years, and studying statistics on horse related head injuries, Troxel realized that the number of people using helmets in Western and Trail riding was significantly lower. This prompted Troxel to begin creating helmets for western riders specifically.

Ahead of the Curve: Troxel is the first company to put their research and development team to work for Western and Trail riders. With the introduction of the Dakota "All Trials" helmet, Troxel was the first to offer helmets to the Trail & Western rider. Troxel is still the only helmet manufacturer supporting all equestrian disciplines with a comprehensive line of safety helmets.

How Do I Select The Right Size Or Get The Right Fit For My Helmet?

Getting the right fit is more than just for your comfort, it is paramount for your safety. Determining your size is easy.
Just see our short video below to help you:

Take A Look At Troxel’s Newest Star— The Spirit™ Helmet!
The #1 riding helmet is now better than ever with a new low profile, deep full coverage design and improved fit! The Spiritoffers protection and ventilation without sacrificing style. Now with an XS size to fit young riders and a new size range to appropriately fit adults, even with the largest of heads, the new Spirit is sure to win over even more riders. The Spirit comes in a large range of solid colors and graphic prints.

Key features include:

New Low Profile
Improved Fit- fits round to oval shaped heads
Full Coverage Design for Optimal Comfort
DialFit System
New Size Range- including XS for young riders
Maximum Airflow Vent Placement
FlexVisor™
FlipFold™ removable washable headliner with Air-Channel™ technology
ASTM/SEI certified

See our Newest Video For Spirit Below!

Riding in Tough Terrain? The Sierra™ Helmet Is Your Answer!
Engineered for riding extremes, our Sierra's Helmet rugged nylon and leather covering not only looks good, but also withstands the toughest terrain on the trail. Its excellent ventilation and mesh covered vents have made this the trail rider’s number one choice.

Key features include:

Low profile
SureFit™ Pro
Riveted nylon and leather finish
Mesh-covered vents
FlipFold™ removable washable headliner
XL Sizing (Brown and Black Only)
ASTM/SEI certified

Looking for an Ultralight, Low Profile Helmet? The Intrepid™ by Troxel Will Keep You Cool!
The Intrepid Helmet features an ultralight, low profile design created for the performance rider. Moisture-wicking padding, self-adjusting SureFit™ Pro technology and superior ventilation provide an unmatched level of comfort and stability during demanding hours in the saddle.

Key features include:

Low Profile
SureFit™ Pro
Duratec™ finish
Honeycomb mesh-covered vents
FlipFold™ removable washable headliner
ASTM/SEI certified

Are You An English Rider? The ES™ Helmet Is Your Show Partner!

Designed for the performance needs of English riders. Troxel's latest fit technologies combined with high-quality materials and a beautiful low-profile silhouette make the ES Helmeta must-have for athletes in an English saddle.

Key features include:

Low profile
SureFit™ Elite
Air-channel™ technology
UV Resistant Microfiber covering
Mesh-covered cluster vents
FlipFold™ removable washable headliner
XL Sizing
ASTM/SEI certified

See our ES Helmet

The Dakota!
Hit the trails in style and comfort with the coolest and lightest trail helmet on the market. The Dakota’s extended visor provides extra sun protection while the excellent ventilation and lightweight construction will make you forget you’re even wearing a helmet.

TROXEL is the world's leading provider of ASTM / SEI Certified Equestrian Helmets, having provided

Key features include:

Low profile
Matte Duratec^™ finish
Extended sun visor
Leather hat band and concho detail
Seven large mesh-covered vents
SureFit^™ Pro fit system
FlipFold^™ removable washable headliner with Air-Channel^™ technology

Can I Paint and/or Sticker My Helmet?

Troxel strongly advises against painting, stickering, applying crystals, cameras or any other objects to or otherwise modifying a helmet as all of these modifications can damage the helmet and/or reduce its protective capabilities. In addition, dry-cleaning, cleaning solvents, chemicals, paint, heat or bug sprays may affect the helmet’s integrity or performance.

Troxelbranded helmet covers, headliners and other Troxel accessories can be used on Troxel helmets and not interfere with the ASTM standard, so long as the user instructions are followed. All other modifications void Troxel’s warranty and may affect the helmet’s protective capabilities.

Do You Make Helmets for Different Head Shapes: Round vs. Long/Oval?

Yes! Troxel helmets are designed to fit different head shapes. Troxel’s removable and washable interior headliner changes shape and can alternate between a more oval or more round shape. This is accomplished by the ‘flipfold’ pad located inside the front and sides of the headliner.

Do I Need To Replace My Helmet After a Fall?

Yes. Your helmet is only designed for ONE impact!The damage may not be visible. Your helmet may also crack during a fall, this is okay, it’s a form of energy dissipation, and energy used to damage the shell is no longer available to damage the rider's head.

How Often Should I Replace My Helmet If I Have Never Had a Fall?

Even if your helmet has not been damaged, it needs to be replaced every 5 years or sooner, depending on how much it is worn.

What Do Customer's Say About Troxel Helmets?

Never even got on... I was mounting my 21 year old thoroughbred whom I have owned for 18 years. Normally he is rock solid for mounting but today something spooked him and he bolted with me half on. I was thrown backward landing on my head and back. Other then numerous bruises, scrapes, and a slight headache I got up and walked away. In my entire riding career of 33 years this is the worst accident I ever experienced. Thank goodness for my Troxel helmet!

Nancy Lexington KY

On Friday, June 16, I was out for a lovely trail ride on my horse near Arlington, WA. While trotting along at a quick pace, my horse suddenly spooked and dodged to the left, while I kept going forward. As I flew over his shoulder, my body twisted and I landed hard on my back, followed by my head slamming into the ground. I didn’t lose consciousness but it took a good 10-15 minutes before the world made sense again. Thankfully, I was wearing my Troxel Liberty helmet. Until I purchased the Liberty in March 2015, I rarely wore a helmet. I didn’t like my old helmet… it was uncomfortable and always seemed to end up tilted sideways. However, I wore my Liberty helmet religiously and I’m ever so glad now! I suffered a mild concussion instead of serious brain trauma. I’ll be purchasing a new helmet again in the next few days and should be back in the saddle within a couple weeks. Thanks for making a helmet that I wanted to wear – it saved me from a far worse head injury!

Kris Olsen Mill Creek, WA

Ride With Confidence With Troxel and Order Today!

There is a reason why more riders depend on Troxel than any other brand! Their design, durability, beauty, style, and unparalleled protection just have no equal. You can find Troxel Helmetsat any major catalog like Stateline Tack, Horse.com, Jeffers, ValleyVet, SmartPakEquine and more. Troxel has numerous styles, price points and size that you need, visit Troxel to view their entire helmet collection!

Troxel Sierra brown leather and nylon trail riding helmet

Who builds Troxel Helmets and why it matters

Troxel was founded in 1992 by Dr. Richard Timms, a physician and critical-care specialist who became the only medical doctor to found an equestrian helmet manufacturer. Drawing on his research background, Dr. Timms introduced the first lightweight, ventilated ASTM-approved equestrian safety helmet, and the company has spent more than 30 years advancing helmet research and development. Troxel's guiding philosophy is simple: prevention is better than a cure. That clinical pedigree is the reason more than 4 million riders have chosen the brand.

Troxel Sierra equestrian helmet low-profile side view with mesh vents

What ASTM / SEI certification actually verifies

Every Troxel helmet meets the ASTM F1163 standard, the equestrian-specific performance specification chosen by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI). SEI certification requires testing at an independent laboratory to that ASTM standard, so the seal is an outside verification rather than a manufacturer claim. Troxel reminds riders that equestrian helmets are designed for one impact event only, and recommends replacement every five years or anytime the helmet has been involved in an accident.

Troxel Sierra ASTM SEI certified Western trail helmet front view

The fit technologies that keep a helmet stable in the saddle

Troxel engineers comfort and stability through several patented systems. The SureFit™ system uses elastic straps that self-adjust to the size and shape of the rider's head, while the DialFit™ system's soft-touch dial allows quick, precise adjustment for customized comfort. The removable, washable FlipFold™ headliner adjusts the helmet's width with integrated tabs to accommodate different head shapes, and Air-Channel™ technology keeps air moving across the scalp on hot days.

Troxel Spirit low-profile full-coverage horse riding helmet

How Mips protects against rotational impacts

Select Troxel models now feature Mips® (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) technology, built on decades of brain-injury research. Because the brain is particularly sensitive to rotation, the Mips Low Friction Layer is engineered to allow a small relative movement between the head and helmet, helping reduce rotational energy transmitted to the head in certain angled impacts. Troxel offers Mips on bestselling models including the Spirit™ and the highly-ventilated Terrain™ with its patented Coolcore® headliner.

A model for every discipline and budget

Troxel's range spans English, Western, trail, and youth riders. The trail-ready Sierra™ ($195.99) pairs a low-profile shell with a rugged leather and nylon covering, mesh-covered vents, and the SureFit™ Pro fit system, while the FlipFold™ headliner with Air-Channel™ technology keeps it cool. For everyday schooling, the customer-favorite Spirit™ ($78.99) delivers full-coverage protection, the shatter-resistant FlexVisor™, and maximum-airflow venting in a wide palette of colors and graphics.

Shop direct and stay protected after a fall

Troxel sells direct at troxelhelmets.com, where shoppers can match a model to their head circumference using the published size charts before checkout. The brand also stands behind every purchase with its Accident Replacement Program: a helmet involved in an accident may be replaced for a minimal fee within two years of the purchase date. Pair that with the five-year replacement guideline and riders always have a clear, affordable path to staying certified and covered.

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The Solution Section (FAQ)

Why should I choose a Troxel over other equestrian helmets?

Per Troxel, several reasons set the line apart. Pioneered helmet safety: Troxel was the first to develop a light-weight vented ASTM/SEI certified equestrian helmet. Physician-developed: Troxel is the only physician-developed equestrian helmet line. Since 1992, Troxel has been providing USA leadership toward reducing equestrian-related head injuries and deaths. Founder Dr. Timms brings a background as a specialist in critical care and as a research professor at The Scripps Institute and University of California. He has served on the board of the National Brain Injury Association and was an expert consultant to the State of California Department of Public Health on injury monitoring and prevention. Today, Dr. Timms is a member of the ASTM committee on head protection and consults Troxel's research and development efforts. Troxel has provided over four million helmets to the equestrian market.

What's special about the SPIRIT helmet — Troxel's #1 model?

Per Troxel, the Spirit is the #1 riding helmet, redesigned with a new low profile, deep full-coverage design, and improved fit. The Spirit offers protection and ventilation without sacrificing style, in a large range of solid colors and graphic prints. Key features:

New low-profile improved fit — fits round-to-oval shaped heads
Full-coverage design for optimal comfort
DialFit System
New size range — including XS for young riders, plus expanded sizing to fit adults with the largest of heads
Maximum airflow vent placement
FlexVisor™
FlipFold™ removable washable headliner with Air-Channel™ technology
ASTM/SEI certified

What helmet is best for trail riding in tough terrain?

Per Troxel, the SIERRA is engineered for riding extremes. Rugged nylon and leather covering not only looks good but withstands the toughest terrain on the trail; excellent ventilation and mesh-covered vents have made this the trail rider's number one choice. Key features: low profile, SureFit™ Pro fit system, riveted nylon and leather finish, mesh-covered vents, FlipFold™ removable washable headliner, XL sizing (Brown and Black only), ASTM/SEI certified.

The DAKOTA is a different trail option — coolest and lightest trail helmet on the market with an extended sun visor, leather hat band and concho detail, seven large mesh-covered vents, matte Duratec™ finish, and the SureFit™ Pro fit system.

Which Troxel works best for performance and English riders?

Per Troxel, two performance-oriented options:

INTREPID — ultralight, low-profile design created for the performance rider. Moisture-wicking padding, self-adjusting SureFit™ Pro technology, and superior ventilation provide an unmatched level of comfort and stability during demanding hours in the saddle. Duratec™ finish; honeycomb mesh-covered vents; FlipFold™ removable washable headliner; ASTM/SEI certified.

ES — designed for the performance needs of English riders. Troxel's latest fit technologies combined with high-quality materials and a beautiful low-profile silhouette make the ES a must-have for athletes in an English saddle. SureFit™ Elite; Air-channel™ technology; UV-resistant microfiber covering; mesh-covered cluster vents; FlipFold™ removable washable headliner; XL sizing; ASTM/SEI certified.

How do I get the right helmet size and fit?

Per Troxel, getting the right fit is more than just for comfort — it's paramount for safety. Troxel publishes a short sizing video on their website to walk you through the measurement process. Troxel helmets are also designed for different head shapes: the removable and washable interior headliner changes shape and can alternate between a more oval or a more round profile, accomplished via the FlipFold pad located inside the front and sides of the headliner. If you're between sizes or unsure of head shape, the headliner system gives you adjustment range without needing a different helmet model.

Can I paint, sticker, or otherwise customize my Troxel helmet?

Per Troxel: strongly advises against painting, stickering, applying crystals, attaching cameras, or any other modifications. All of these modifications can damage the helmet and/or reduce its protective capabilities. Additionally, dry-cleaning, cleaning solvents, chemicals, paint, heat, and bug sprays may affect the helmet's integrity or performance. Troxel-branded helmet covers, headliners, and other Troxel accessories can be used on Troxel helmets without interfering with the ASTM standard, so long as the user instructions are followed. All other modifications void Troxel's warranty and may affect the helmet's protective capabilities.

Do I need to replace my helmet after a fall — and how often otherwise?

Per Troxel: yes, replace after any fall. Your helmet is only designed for ONE impact. The damage may not be visible. Your helmet may also crack during a fall — this is okay; it's a form of energy dissipation, and energy used to damage the shell is no longer available to damage the rider's head. If you've never had a fall: replace every 5 years (or sooner, depending on how much it is worn). Helmet materials degrade with sweat, sun exposure, and time even when no impact has occurred.

What do real riders say about Troxel saving them?

Two voices from the source:

Nancy, Lexington KY — 33-year riding career, mounting accident: "I was mounting my 21-year-old thoroughbred whom I have owned for 18 years. Normally he is rock solid for mounting but today something spooked him and he bolted with me half on. I was thrown backward landing on my head and back. Other than numerous bruises, scrapes, and a slight headache I got up and walked away. In my entire riding career of 33 years this is the worst accident I ever experienced. Thank goodness for my Troxel helmet!"

Kris Olsen, Mill Creek WA — Liberty model, trail accident: "While trotting along at a quick pace, my horse suddenly spooked and dodged to the left, while I kept going forward. As I flew over his shoulder, my body twisted and I landed hard on my back, followed by my head slamming into the ground. I didn't lose consciousness but it took a good 10-15 minutes before the world made sense again. Thankfully, I was wearing my Troxel Liberty helmet... I suffered a mild concussion instead of serious brain trauma. Thanks for making a helmet that I wanted to wear – it saved me from a far worse head injury!"

To order or learn more: Troxel helmets are available at major catalogs including Stateline Tack, Horse.com, Jeffers, ValleyVet, and SmartPakEquine. Direct contact: 800-288-4280, email info@troxelhelmets.com, web troxelhelmets.com. Address: P.O. Box 68 / 7540 CR 201, Mt. Hope, Ohio 44660. Pricing varies by model and retailer; pricing as quoted is subject to change due to economic factors — confirm current pricing with the retailer or Troxel directly.

Are Troxel helmets ASTM/SEI certified?

Yes. Every Troxel helmet meets the ASTM F1163 standard, the equestrian-specific performance specification chosen by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI). SEI certification requires the helmet to pass testing at an independent laboratory, so the seal is third-party verified rather than a manufacturer's claim. Troxel is the world's leading provider of ASTM/SEI-certified equestrian helmets.

Who founded Troxel Helmets and when?

Troxel's equestrian helmet line was founded in 1992 by Dr. Richard Timms, a physician and critical-care specialist. He is the only medical doctor to found an equestrian helmet manufacturer, and he introduced the first lightweight, ventilated ASTM-approved equestrian safety helmet that same year. The company has since spent more than 30 years on helmet research and development.

How often should I replace my Troxel helmet?

Troxel recommends replacing your helmet every five years, or anytime it has been involved in an accident. Equestrian helmets are designed to absorb one impact event only, so a helmet that has taken a hard fall should be retired even if it looks undamaged. The protective foam can be compromised by an impact you cannot see from the outside.

What is the Troxel Accident Replacement Program?

Troxel offers an accident replacement benefit: a helmet involved in an accident may be replaced for a minimal fee within two years from the date of purchase. This program lets riders quickly and affordably get back into a certified helmet after a fall. Troxel was also the first company in the industry to offer an accident replacement program.

What is the SureFit fit system?

SureFit™ is Troxel's self-adjusting fit system. It incorporates elastic straps that automatically adjust to the size and shape of the rider's head, and combined with ultra-plush padding it delivers a high level of comfort and stability. The Sierra™ model uses an upgraded version called SureFit™ Pro.

What is the DialFit system?

DialFit™ is Troxel's dial-based adjustment system. A soft-touch dial lets the rider quickly and precisely fine-tune the helmet's fit for personalized comfort. It is featured on popular models like the Spirit™, allowing on-the-fly snugness adjustments while mounted.

What is the FlipFold headliner?

FlipFold™ is Troxel's patented, removable and washable headliner system. It uses integrated tabs that fold to adjust the helmet's interior width, accommodating different head shapes for a more customized fit. Because it is removable and washable, riders can keep the liner fresh and clean throughout the helmet's life.

Do Troxel helmets offer MIPS protection?

Yes. Select Troxel models feature Mips® (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) technology, including the bestselling Spirit™ and the Terrain™. Mips adds a Low Friction Layer engineered to allow a small relative movement between the head and helmet, helping reduce rotational energy transferred to the brain in certain angled impacts.

How does MIPS technology work?

Mips is based on decades of research into brain injuries and helmet construction. Because the brain is particularly sensitive to rotation, the system's Low Friction Layer is intended to allow a slight relative movement between the head and the helmet shell during an angled impact. That movement helps reduce the rotational energy reaching the head, addressing a force that traditional helmets do not specifically target.

How much does the Troxel Sierra helmet cost?

The Troxel Sierra™ is priced at $195.99. It is a low-profile trail and Western helmet with a rugged leather and nylon covering, mesh-covered vents, and the SureFit™ Pro fit system. It comes in Brown and Black and sizes Small through Extra Large.

What makes the Sierra helmet good for trail and Western riders?

The Sierra™ pairs a low-profile shell with a rugged leather and nylon exterior built to handle terrain damage while protecting the shell. Mesh-covered vents and a FlipFold™ headliner with Air-Channel™ technology keep air moving on long rides, and the SureFit™ Pro system locks in a stable fit. Troxel was the first to design helmets specifically for Western and trail riders.

How much does the Troxel Spirit helmet cost?

The Troxel Spirit™ is priced at $78.99, making it one of the brand's most affordable full-coverage helmets. It is a customer favorite with a low-profile, full-coverage design, the shatter-resistant FlexVisor™, maximum-airflow vent placement, and the DialFit™ adjustment system. It is available in a wide range of colors and fun graphics, with a Mips® version also offered.

What is the FlexVisor and why does it matter?

FlexVisor™ is Troxel's protective visor molded from a flexible polymer. Unlike rigid visors, it won't shatter into sharp pieces in a fall, reducing the possibility of cuts and scrapes during an impact. It appears on full-coverage models such as the Spirit™.

What is Air-Channel technology?

Air-Channel™ is a ventilation feature integrated into Troxel's FlipFold™ headliner. It creates channels that route airflow across the scalp to keep the rider cooler during warm-weather riding. It works alongside the helmet's external vents for better overall cooling.

What is the Duratec finish?

Duratec™ is a finish option on certain Troxel helmets that provides improved scratch and dirt resistance with a rich matte look. It maintains its appearance with simple soap-and-water cleaning. Several Spirit™ colorways are offered in the Duratec finish.

How do I choose the right size Troxel helmet?

Troxel publishes size charts that map head circumference to helmet sizes, and you should measure around your head about an inch above the eyebrows before ordering. The Sierra™, for example, runs Small (6-5/8 to 7), Medium (7 to 7-1/4), Large (7-1/4 to 7-3/8), and Extra Large (7-3/8 to 7-3/4). A properly fitted helmet should sit level and snug, and Troxel's SureFit™ and DialFit™ systems help dial in the final fit.

Where can I buy Troxel helmets?

Troxel sells direct through its official website at troxelhelmets.com, where you can browse the full English, Western, trail, and youth lineup and check size charts before ordering. The brand is also carried by many tack and equestrian retailers. With over 4 million helmets in the market, Troxel is widely available across the equestrian world.