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Troxel Helmets TROXEL is the world's leading provider of ASTM / SEI Certified

Need quality trail riding products for your horse?

Reviewed by Ann Pruitt, InfoHorse.com · Updated April 2026
Troxel Spirit horse riding helmet with MIPS technology, low-profile vented shell
Troxel Spirit horse riding helmet with MIPS technology, low-profile vented shell
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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 Spirit offers 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 Helmet a 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.

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.

Troxel branded 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 Helmets at 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 Spirit horse riding helmet with MIPS technology, low-profile vented shell
Troxel Spirit horse riding helmet with Mips technology, low-profile vented shell

Who builds the world's most-worn equestrian helmet?

Troxel was founded in 1992 as the first company to develop a lightweight, ventilated ASTM-approved equestrian safety helmet, and the brand traces its safety philosophy to physician-developer Dr. Richard Timms, a critical care specialist and research professor. The guiding principle is simple: "Prevention is better than a cure." More than four million riders have chosen Troxel, making it the most trusted name in ASTM/SEI-certified equestrian helmets across competitive, schooling, and recreational riding.

Troxel Spirit ASTM SEI certified equestrian helmet side profile view
Troxel Spirit ASTM SEI certified equestrian helmet side profile view

What does ASTM/SEI certification actually guarantee?

Every Troxel helmet is certified to the ASTM standard F1163, the performance standard SEI selected to evaluate equestrian helmets, with testing performed at an independent laboratory. As Troxel puts it, "While no helmet will prevent all injuries, you're far less likely to suffer a serious head injury if you're wearing a helmet with ASTM/SEI-certification." ASTM International is one of the world's most respected standards organizations, and SEI certification confirms each model was tested by a neutral third party rather than the manufacturer alone.

Troxel Spirit helmet showing FlipFold removable washable headliner and ventilation
Troxel Spirit helmet showing FlipFold removable washable headliner and ventilation

How does Troxel make a helmet fit every head shape?

Troxel pioneered helmet fit-and-comfort engineering, and its patented FlipFold™ headliner remains a signature feature: a removable, washable liner whose integrated tabs fold to adjust the helmet's interior width for narrow or round head shapes. The SureFit™ system adds elastic straps that self-adjust to the size and shape of the rider's head, paired with ultra-plush padding for stability, while the soft-touch DialFit™ dial lets riders fine-tune circumference in seconds. The FlexVisor™, molded from flexible polymer, won't shatter into sharp pieces in a fall, reducing the chance of cuts and scrapes.

Troxel Spirit Duratec finish horse riding helmet color detail
Troxel Spirit Duratec finish horse riding helmet color detail

What is Mips technology and which Troxel helmets have it?

Mips® (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) is built on decades of research into brain injuries and helmet construction, adding a low-friction layer that allows the helmet to slide relative to the head during an angled impact. Troxel offers Mips® on the Spirit™ Horse Riding Helmet with Mips® Technology (from $117.99) and the Terrain™ Horse Riding Helmet with Mips® Technology ($172.99). The Spirit™ with Mips® also carries a low-profile, full-coverage shell, a FlipFold™ removable washable headliner with Air-Channel™ technology, and maximum-airflow vent placement.

Which model fits your discipline and budget?

The Troxel line spans schooling, show, trail, and western riding, from the value-priced Sport 2.0™ (from $61.99) and Spirit™ (from $78.99) to premium western and endurance models like the Sierra™ ($195.99) and Cheyenne™ ($261.99). Trail and All-Trails riders gravitate to the Dakota™ ($104.99) and the low-profile western-inspired Rebel™ ($104.99), while the ES™ ($171.99) and Dynasty™ ($133.99) serve riders wanting refined styling. Troxel was first to introduce ventilated, lightweight certified helmets for schooling and show, and first to bring leather-covered western-inspired certified helmets to trail and western riders.

How do you buy a Troxel and keep it protecting you?

Troxel helmets are sold directly at troxelhelmets.com and through a nationwide retailer network, with a built-in fit guide running from XS (6-1/4 – 6-1/2) up through L (7-3/8 – 7-3/4). Because equestrian helmets are made for one impact event only, Troxel pioneered the first equestrian accident replacement program, offering a replacement within two years of purchase at minimal cost after a fall. The company recommends replacing your helmet every five years, or any time it has been involved in an accident, even if no damage is visible.

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The Solution Section (FAQ)
Are Troxel helmets safety certified?
Yes. Every Troxel helmet is ASTM/SEI certified. Troxel was the first to develop a lightweight vented ASTM/SEI certified equestrian helmet, and the company has provided over four million helmets to the equestrian market since 1992.
What makes Troxel different from other equestrian helmet brands?
Troxel is the only physician-developed equestrian helmet line and has been providing leadership toward reducing equestrian-related head injuries since 1992. Dr. Timms, a critical-care specialist and research professor at The Scripps Institute and the University of California, provides the foundation for Troxel's research; he has served on the board of the National Brain Injury Association and is a member of the ASTM committee on head protection.
Does Troxel make helmets for both English and Western riders?
Yes. Troxel offers helmets and accessories for all riders, English and Western alike, and is the only helmet manufacturer supporting every equestrian discipline with a comprehensive line. After noticing far lower helmet use among Western and trail riders, Troxel became the first company to design helmets specifically for them, starting with the Dakota "All Trials" helmet.
Which Troxel helmet is best for trail and Western riding?
For rugged trail use, the Sierra has a riveted nylon and leather covering built to withstand the toughest terrain, with mesh-covered vents that make it a top trail-rider choice. The Dakota is the lightest trail helmet, adding an extended sun visor, leather hat band, and concho detail. Both use the SureFit Pro fit system and the FlipFold removable, washable headliner.
How do I get the right helmet size and fit?
Getting the right fit is essential for safety, not just comfort, and determining your size is easy. Troxel provides a short fitting video, and several models use the DialFit or self-adjusting SureFit systems to fine-tune the fit once your size is set.
Does Troxel make helmets for different head shapes, like round versus oval?
Yes. Troxel helmets are designed to fit different head shapes. The removable, washable interior headliner uses a FlipFold pad located inside the front and sides, which can change shape to fit a more oval or more round head.
How often should I replace my riding helmet?
Replace your helmet immediately after any fall, since it is designed for only one impact and the damage may not be visible. Even if it has never been damaged, a helmet should be replaced every 5 years, or sooner depending on how much it is worn. Troxel also advises against painting, applying stickers or crystals, or mounting cameras, as these can reduce a helmet's protective capabilities and void the warranty.
Where can I see Troxel's full helmet collection and order?
You can view Troxel's entire collection of styles, colors, and price points, including the Spirit, Sierra, Intrepid, ES, and Dakota, on the Troxel website. Troxel helmets are also carried by major catalogs such as Stateline Tack, Horse.com, Jeffers, ValleyVet, and SmartPakEquine.
Are Troxel helmets ASTM/SEI certified?
Yes. Every Troxel equestrian helmet is certified to the ASTM standard F1163, the performance standard SEI selected to evaluate riding helmets. Certification requires testing at an independent laboratory, not just the manufacturer's own lab, which is why Troxel describes itself as the most trusted brand of ASTM/SEI-certified equestrian helmets.
What does ASTM F1163 actually test for?
ASTM F1163 is the equestrian-specific helmet performance standard set by ASTM International, one of the world's most respected standards organizations. SEI uses it to verify, through independent lab testing, that a helmet meets defined impact-protection requirements before it can carry the ASTM/SEI mark. As Troxel notes, no helmet prevents all injuries, but you are far less likely to suffer a serious head injury wearing an ASTM/SEI-certified helmet.
When was Troxel founded and who created it?
Troxel was founded in 1992, when it became the first company to develop a lightweight, ventilated ASTM-approved equestrian safety helmet. The brand's safety approach was physician-developed by Dr. Richard Timms, a critical care specialist and research professor, under the philosophy that 'prevention is better than a cure.'
How many Troxel helmets have been sold?
More than four million riders have chosen Troxel helmets. That volume is the basis for Troxel's positioning as the world's leading provider of ASTM/SEI-certified equestrian helmets, with over 30 years of research and development behind the current lineup.
What is the FlipFold headliner?
FlipFold™ is Troxel's patented, removable and washable headliner system. Integrated tabs fold to adjust the helmet's interior width, letting one helmet accommodate narrow, average, or rounder head shapes. Troxel was the first to introduce this kind of removable, washable fit-adjustment liner in an equestrian helmet.
What is the SureFit system?
SureFit™ uses elastic straps that self-adjust to the size and shape of the rider's head, combined with ultra-plush padding. The result, according to Troxel, is an unmatched level of comfort and stability, helping the helmet stay securely seated during riding.
What is DialFit and how is it different from SureFit?
DialFit™ is a soft-touch dial mechanism that lets a rider quickly fine-tune the helmet's circumference for a precise, customized fit. Where SureFit™ relies on self-adjusting elastic straps and FlipFold™ adjusts interior width, DialFit™ provides on-the-fly tightening or loosening via the rear dial.
What is MIPS technology and which Troxel helmets have it?
MIPS® stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, developed from decades of research into brain injuries and helmet construction. It adds a low-friction layer that lets the helmet move slightly relative to the head during an angled impact. Troxel offers MIPS® on the Spirit™ Horse Riding Helmet with Mips® Technology (from $117.99) and the Terrain™ Horse Riding Helmet with Mips® Technology ($172.99).
What is the FlexVisor?
FlexVisor™ is Troxel's brim molded from a flexible polymer. Unlike a rigid visor, it won't shatter into sharp pieces in a fall, reducing the possibility of cuts and scrapes to the rider's face during an accident.
What is the Duratec finish?
Duratec™ is a protective, rubberized matte finish offered on many Troxel color options. It improves scratch and dirt resistance and can be cleaned with soap and water to restore its appearance. Troxel was among the first to bring advanced materials like Duratec coatings and carbon-fiber construction to equestrian helmets.
What sizes do Troxel helmets come in?
Troxel's adjustable-fit helmets typically span XS (6-1/4 – 6-1/2), S (6-1/2 – 6-7/8), M (7 – 7-3/8), and L (7-3/8 – 7-3/4). The FlipFold™, SureFit™, or DialFit™ systems further fine-tune fit within each size band, so a single size covers a range of head circumferences.
Do Troxel helmets help keep you cool?
Yes. Troxel was first to develop ventilated, lightweight certified equestrian helmets, and models like the Spirit™ with MIPS® use a FlipFold™ headliner with Air-Channel™ technology plus maximum-airflow vent placement. The vents are positioned to move air across the head while the rider works.
How often should I replace my Troxel helmet?
Troxel recommends replacing your equestrian helmet every five years, or any time it has been involved in an accident. Equestrian helmets are made for one impact event only, so even if you see no visible damage, the area where an impact occurred could be compromised and should not be relied on again.
Does Troxel offer an accident replacement program?
Yes. Troxel pioneered the first equestrian accident replacement program. If your helmet is involved in a fall, the company offers a replacement within two years of purchase at minimal cost, encouraging riders to retire any helmet that has taken an impact.
Where can I buy a Troxel helmet?
Troxel helmets are available directly at troxelhelmets.com and through a nationwide network of authorized retailers and tack shops. The site includes a fit guide and full model lineup, with prices ranging from the Sport 2.0™ (from $61.99) up to the western-styled Cheyenne™ ($261.99).
What makes Troxel different from other helmet brands?
Troxel built the category around comfort-driven safety, claiming a long list of industry firsts: the first lightweight ventilated certified equestrian helmet (1992), the first helmet fit-and-comfort system, the patented FlipFold™ headliner, the first removable washable liners, the first western and trail certified helmets, and the first equestrian accident replacement program. Combined with over four million helmets sold and 30-plus years of R&D, that record underpins its claim as the world's leading ASTM/SEI-certified equestrian helmet brand.

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Ann Pruitt
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InfoHorse.com