Photo Courtesy of Charles Owen

For those of us who regularly ride in our helmets, we often come to find that after countless hours of use in a variety of conditions this essential part of our riding equipment can become a bit stale smelling and tired looking.  As many of us have adapted to wearing safety helmets with every ride, it’s very easy for these expensive investments to become victims of the daily abuse that can come with horseback riding.  Don’t loose heart, with a small amount of attention your helmet can easily be restored to it’s like-new condition!

Today’s helmets come in a variety of exterior finishes–from all weather plastic outer shells to the more traditional velvet and velveteen exteriors.  Many riders find that those helmets made with an all-weather exterior ward off the elements of the barn much easier than those with fabric and velvet finishes–however, there are easy steps we can all take to preserve the look of both styles of helmets.

GPA Speed Air Evolution

For those helmets that have a plastic exteriors rider’s can purchase soft plastic, stretchy velveteen, or fabric/lycra helmet covers which are designed to protect the finish of the helmet’s shell.  Not only do these covers offer riders a bit of personal flair or color, they also help to protect your helmet from the scuffs and scrapes that can diminish its’ appearance.

Charles Owen GR8

Velvet and micro-suede  finish helmets can appear to be a bit more fussy, but such is not the case!  Plastic covers work best for protecting the exterior of these helmets.  The plastic cover provides excellent protection against the moisture, dust, and sun bleaching that can wreak havoc on the helmet’s velvet or fabric finish.

 

Once you have determined the protective cover that will work best for your helmet, be sure not to forget cleanliness of the interior.  Without regular cleaning the interior of a helmet can start to produce bacteria which can create an off-putting odor, but with basic care your helmet can stay fresh!

There are two fantastic products that have been designed to help clean, deodorize, and preserve your helmet’s interior lining–

Charles Owen Hat Cleaner

Charles Owen Hat Cleaner

This product is an easy to use aerosol spray that you can simply mist into the interior of your helmet to eliminate sweat, dirt, and make-up build up.  This hat cleaner is designed with to digest the dirt and grease that can accumulate inside of your hat, leaving the helmet clean and comfortable to wear.

 

Charles Owen Hat Deodorizer

Charles Owen Helmet Deodorizer

This Helmet Deodorizer has been developed to eliminate the odor causing bacteria that can accumulate within the helmet leaving the interior clean and fresh smelling.

With some basic maintenance you can keep your helmet clean and comfortable all year long!