Whether you’re leading a young horse to the pasture or riding your experienced senior mount on the trail, accidents and injuries can happen. Fortunately, safety gear, such as a helmet, along with good horsemanship skills, can help prevent serious injury when accidents occur.   

In light of International Helmet Safety Awareness Day, which took place Aug. 1, we asked our readers how often they wear a helmet while riding. More than 1,650 people responded, and we’ve tallied the results!  

Of the 1,694 respondents, 1,368 people (81%) said they wear a helmet all or most of the time that they ride. Another 121 respondents (7%) said that they wear a helmet only when required by a trainer, event, or facility. The remaining 205 individuals (12%) said they never wear a helmet.