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Helmet Rule Reminder
14 Mar 2026
A reminder that the following APF Rule became effective from 1st March 2026.
HELMETS:
STANDARDS REQUIRED:
Helmets must always be worn during play and whilst riding on the venue (including grooms) and must be of a type approved to one of the following standards clearly marked inside the helmet:
· PAS015:2011 & updates
· VG1 01.040 2014-12
· UTAC/CRITT 04/2015
· NOCSAE and any newer version of the same standard
· EN1384:2017 or EN1384:2023
· AMERICAN ASTM F1163-23
· AMERICAN SNELL E2021 & 2016
Please note: that helmets to PAS015:1998, AS/NZ 3838 2006 and SNELL E2001 are no longer accepted, due to the age of that standard
Any helmet which meets the above standards (to the satisfaction of the APF umpire) is permitted. It is not necessary to wear a “polo” helmet, a general equestrian helmet which meets the above standards is accepted.
QUALITY MARK REQUIRED:
In addition to the STANDARD above helmets must bear at least one of these QC marks. A QC Mark is a higher and more expensive standard, which requires factory inspection and audit by the certifying body.
· BSI KITEMARK
· SEI
· SNELL
· INSPEC CERTIFIED
Please note: Helmets purchased before 1st April 2021 which are type approved but without a QC mark will no longer be permitted from 1st March 2026.
HELMET REPLACEMENT:
* Perfect fit and correct adjustment of the retention harness are essential for the safety performance of your helmet. Ideally you should have it fitted by an expert instore or if you buy it online check it fits well before use.
* Whether you use your helmet daily or weekly there is ongoing material wear and tear. The APF recommends you replace your helmet every 3 to 5 years depending on your frequency of use.
* Any helmet that has sustained a significant impact must be replaced immediately as it may not adequately absorb a second impact even if there is no visible damage.
HELMET CAMERAS:
Members should be aware that helmets are tested without protuberances such as helmet cameras. We do not know how helmet cameras affect the safety characteristics of helmets. It is reasonable to assume that breakaway mounts are safer than hard or bolted-in mounts.
We provide the following list of some helmet brands meeting the STANDARD and QC as at 20.2.2024 for the convenience of members and umpires.
(Brand - Model -Type Approval Standard - QC Mark)
Armis - Armis Duo - PAS015:2011, VG1 01.040- 2014 - BSI Kitemark
Armis - Armis Edge - PAS015:2011, VG1 01.040- 2014 - BSI Kitemark
Armis - Armis Vera - NOCSAE, PAS015:2011, VG1 01.040-2014 - SEI and BSI Kitemark
Casablanca - NEU - PAS015:2011, NOCSAE - SEI
GPA - Speed Air 2X POLO 2X - UTAC/CRITT 04/2015 EN 1384:2017 - SEI to ASTM F1163-15
Instinct Polo - Instinct Mk1 - PAS015:2011 - BSI Kitemark
Instinct Polo - Askari - NOCSAE - SEI
KEP Italia - Cromo - PAS015:2011, VG1 01.040 - 2014 - SEI to ASTM F1163-15
La Martina - Windsor - PAS015:2011, VG1 01.040 - 2014 - SEI and BSI Kitemark
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