Progressive Change to Helmet Standards

Introduction

The FEI is introducing a phased change to accepted testing standards for protective headgear (helmets) over a two-year period from 1 January 2026. This means some older standards will be phased out, and from 1 January 2028 helmets used in FEI competition must meet at least two of the four approved standards.

The aim of this change is to ensure athletes are using helmets rigorously tested for safety and quality. Athletes are encouraged to upgrade to helmets that meet the 1 January 2028 FEI requirements as soon as possible.

EA recognises that helmets can be a significant expense. For competitions run under national rules only, EA has extended the acceptance of ASTM F1163:2015 and CE marked helmets referencing VG1 and EN 1384:2017 (when used alongside one of the four ongoing standards, excluding ASTM F1163:2023) by an additional year. This extension is intended to support athletes who may have recently purchased these helmets.

Helmet Standard references in the EA General Regulations and on the EA website are being updated shortly.

Below is the link to the Helmet Standards on the FEI website.

https://inside.fei.org/sites/default/files/FEI_ATSPH_Effective1Jan2026_17Dec2025.pdf

Accepted Helmet Standards by Date

1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026

Helmets must meet at least one of the following standards:

• AS/NZS 3838 (2006 onwards)
• PAS 015:2011 and updates
• Snell E2016 or E2021
• CE marked helmets referencing EN 1384:2023 or VG1 and EN 1384:2017
• ASTM F1163:2015 or ASTM F1163:2023

1 January 2027 to 31 December 2027 (for competitions run under FEI rules) and until 31 December 2028 (for competitions run under National rules)
Helmets must meet at least one of the following standards:

• PAS 015:2011 and updates
• Snell E2016 or E2021
• CE marked helmets referencing EN 1384:2023
• ASTM F1163:2023

The following standards are accepted only when used in combination with one of the above:

• CE marked helmets referencing VG1 and EN 1384:2017
• ASTM F1163:2015 (not in combination with ASTM F1163:2023)

From 1 January 2028 onwards (FEI rules) and from 1 January 2029 (National rules)
Helmets must meet at least two of the following four standards:

• PAS 015:2011 and updates
• Snell E2016 or E2021
• CE marked helmets referencing EN 1384:2023
• ASTM F1163:2023

In all cases above (except VG1 in 2026) at least one of the standards must carry a quality test mark.

Tagging Implementation

It is the athlete’s responsibility to ensure they wear helmets that meet the currently accepted standards - EA utilises a tagging process to assist officials in identifying riders wearing compliant helmets.

Helmets will gradually move from yellow tags to green tags, indicating they meet the FEI requirements from 1 January 2028.

In the period 1 Jan 2027 to 31 Dec 2028   Yellow tagged Helmets worn in any competition may be checked for compliance with 2027 Accepted Testing Standards.

1 Jan 2026-31 Dec 2026  

• Yellow and Green Tags Accepted
• Helmets meeting FEI 1 Jan 2028 accepted standards tagged Green
• Helmets meeting the FEI 1 Jan 2027 accepted standards but not 1 Jan 2028 tagged Yellow

1 Jan 2027-31 Dec2027             

• Yellow and Green Tags Accepted
• Untagged or yellow tagged Helmets meeting the FEI 1 Jan 2028 accepted standards tagged Green

1 Jan 2028 onwards
Only Green Tags accepted for competition run under FEI rules

1 Jan 2028 -31 Dec 28
Yellow or Green Tags accepted for competition run under EA Rules

1 Jan 2029 onwards   
Only Green tags accepted

Perfect fit and the correct adjustment of the retention harness are essential to the performance of your Helmet. Even if the product is purchased online, it is strongly recommended to try it on before use. Ideally, you should have it fitted by a qualified professional, or at the very least, seek expert advice to ensure it fits properly.

Taking into account daily wear and tear and material fatigue, the FEI recommends replacing your Helmet every three to five years depending on the frequency of use.

Even if there is no visible damage, Helmet that has sustained a significant impact must be replaced immediately, as it may not adequately absorb a second impact.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions.