The Complete Guide to Equestrian Gear: Riding Helmets, Saddles & Arena Timing
Whether you’re schooling at home, showing on the circuit, or running timed events, the right equipment starts with safety and fit. Our Equestrian collection brings together 46 products: a large lineup of Suomy Apex riding helmets in dozens of finishes, show jumping and dressage saddles, and ArenaGear wireless timing systems for arenas and athletic testing. This guide covers each category, explains how to choose, and links to the products and collections that round out your setup. For more riding and field gear, browse our Field, Court and Riding collection, or see everything in our sports collection.
What’s in the Equestrian Collection
CategoryProductsPrice RangeRiding helmets (Suomy Apex)About 34$549 to $4,859Saddles8$2,194.95 to $3,074.95Arena timing systems (ArenaGear)4$1,250 to $2,417
Brands in the collection include American Equus, Ovation Riding, and ArenaGear. Several helmet styles are pre-order, so check availability on each product page.
Riding Helmets
Why Riders Choose the Suomy Apex
The Suomy Apex is a lightweight, certified riding helmet offered in a wide range of finishes. Per the product descriptions for the Apex line, key features include:
- Lightweight construction: About 520 grams, which helps reduce neck and head fatigue during long rides.
- Safety certification: Apex helmets are listed as certified to EN 1384:2017 and ASTM F1163-15, and the Full Carbon models list additional certifications. Confirm the certifications on the product page for the style you choose.
- Shell: A thermoplastic resin composite shell on most finishes, and a continuous carbon fiber shell on the Full Carbon models.
- Ventilation: Aerodynamic vents direct airflow across the head.
- Comfort: Hypoallergenic, antibacterial, anti-odor lining with removable, washable padding.
- Security: A quick-release safety buckle and a replaceable chin strap.
- Travel case included.
Specifications can vary by finish, so check the product page for details on your style.
Suomy Apex Helmet Finishes and Prices
Finish familyStylesStarting PriceChromeChrome Black Glossy, Chrome Blue Navy Glossy, Chrome Blue/Rose Gold Matte, Chrome Black Rose Gold Matte, Chrome Anthracite Matte$599WoodWood Blue Navy Matte, Wood Black Glossy, Wood Black Matte, Wood Brown Matte (pre-order)$975Wood, ladies’Wood Blue Navy Lady Glossy Pink$1,025HNTHNT Blue Navy Matte$549BlingBling Bling Black$1,099Full CarbonFull Carbon Blue Glossy (pre-order)$1,399Damask (Lady)Damask Blue, Damask Green, Damask Total Blue (all pre-order)$1,750Luxury PearlLuxury Pearl Blue Matte, Luxury Pearl Black Matte (both pre-order)$4,859
Chrome finishes have metallic accents and are the most affordable way into the Apex line. Wood finishes use a natural wood veneer, so each helmet shows a unique grain pattern. Full Carbon models are built from carbon fiber for a rigid, ultralight shell. Damask, Bling, and Luxury Pearl are the statement designs for riders who want a standout look in the show ring.
How to Fit a Riding Helmet
- Measure your head. Wrap a soft tape around your head about an inch above your eyebrows, level all the way around. Compare it to the size chart on the product page.
- Check the position. The helmet should sit level and low on the forehead, snug but not painful, without sliding when you shake your head.
- Adjust the harness. The chin strap should be snug enough that you can fit no more than a finger or two under it.
- Check the certification. Confirm the helmet is certified to an equestrian safety standard on the product page.
- Replace it after an impact. A helmet that has taken a significant hit may no longer protect you, even if it looks fine.
Caring for Your Helmet
Clean the shell with a damp cloth, wash the removable padding and chin strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and let everything air dry. Store the helmet in its travel case, away from heat and direct sunlight, and avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the materials.
Saddles
We carry eight saddles across show jumping, dressage, and other styles.
SaddlePriceCompetition Show Jumping II, Medium$2,194.95Competition Show Jumping II, Medium Long$2,194.95Competition Show Jumping II, Forward Long$2,194.95Palermo II, Medium$2,194.95Palermo II, Medium Forward$2,194.95San Telmo II$2,194.95San Diego II$2,194.95Salinero II Dressage Saddle$3,074.95
Show Jumping vs. Dressage Saddles
A show jumping saddle has forward-cut flaps that let the rider shorten their stirrups and stay balanced over fences. A dressage saddle has straighter flaps and a deeper seat that support a longer leg position for flatwork. The Competition Show Jumping II is the jumping option, and the Salinero II is the dressage saddle. For the Palermo II, San Telmo II, and San Diego II, check each product page for the discipline and fit details.
Choosing the Right Saddle Fit
Saddle fit depends on both horse and rider, and a poor fit can cause discomfort, soreness, and performance problems for both of you.
- For the horse: The saddle should match the width and shape of the horse’s back, sit level, and clear the spine and withers.
- For the rider: The seat size and flap length affect balance and leg position. Variations like Medium, Medium Long, Forward Long, and Medium Forward describe fit and flap differences within a model.
- Get a professional opinion. A qualified saddle fitter can check the fit on your horse. Contact our experts if you have questions before ordering.
Arena Timing Systems
Accurate timing matters for barrel racing, speed classes, and any event decided by fractions of a second. Our ArenaGear RM-510 systems are wireless and use laser gates, so there are no cables to trip over and setup is quick.
These systems also work well for other sports. For more timing options, browse our track & field collection, and add scoreboards so riders and spectators can see results.
How to Choose
New or recreational riders: Start with a well-fitted, certified helmet. The Chrome and HNT Apex finishes are the most affordable, and a professional fit matters more than any feature.
Competitors: Choose a saddle for your discipline, jumping or dressage, and a helmet that meets your show’s requirements. Wood, Full Carbon, and Damask finishes add a polished look for the ring.
Event organizers and barn owners: Pair an ArenaGear package with scoreboards, seating, and lighting for a complete event setup.
Complete Your Equestrian Setup
Build out your arena or facility with scoreboards, bleachers & benches, court lights, and training equipment. For rider conditioning, our weights & fitness collection includes free weights, fitness machines, and multi-sport training equipment. Explore our other sports, including tennis, lacrosse, and cricket.
Why Shop Equestrian Gear at Omaha Sports & Games
Every product in this collection is backed by our lowest price guarantee, and our team can help you choose the right helmet, saddle, or timing system. Many helmet styles are pre-order, so contact us for timing on a specific style. Call (888) 884-2234 or contact our experts, and browse our full sports collection to see everything else we carry.