RideSafe Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT DOES SEI/ASTM CERTIFIED MEAN?
SEI is the Safety Equipment Institute, an organization that certifies that your protective headgear meets all the requirements of the ASTM Standard. And the manufacturer is audited yearly to ensure the headgear continues to meet all the requirements of the ASTM standard. ASTM is one of the world’s most respected standards organizations, developing standards for everything from curing of concrete to hotness of red peppers to protective headgear. SEI has selected the ASTM F 1163-15 for Protective headgear Used in Horse Sports and Horseback Riding. This standard has recently been updated from the ASTM F1163-04 and ASTM F1163-13. This new ASTM F1163-15 testing method uses new variable mass headforms. This means that each headform size has been weighted to more realistically represent each size head. Prior standards had all headforms weighted equally.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A CONCUSSION?
It can be difficult to diagnose a concussion. You may be able to see a cut or bruise on your head but there are no visible signs of a concussion. The symptoms of a concussion may not appear for days or weeks after the injury and can last for just seconds or linger much longer.
Concussions are very common with falls. It is very important to recognize the signs of a concussion so you can take the proper steps to treat the injury. There are some common physical, mental, and emotional symptoms to watch for following a concussion. Any of the following symptoms could be a sign of a traumatic brain injury: confused or dazed / change in behavior or personality / clumsiness / dizziness / blurred vision / headache /slurred speech / difficulty concentrating / memory loss/ nausea or vomiting / sensitivity to light or noise / lethargy /ringing in the ears
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you think you or someone you know may have a concussion. A health care professional can decide whether you require treatment and how serious the concussion is. Rest from the activity is always recommended until you can be cleared by a doctor.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN MY HEADGEAR?
Your Resistol RideSafe headgear can be cleaned by using a clean damp cloth on the plastic parts and soft brush on the hat portion.
HOW SHOULD I STORE MY HEADGEAR?
The protective materials in your headgear are sensitive to extreme heat, so your headgear should always be stored at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Do not leave your headgear in a car on a hot day or it may be damaged.
DO YOU MAKE THE RIDESAFE FOR EXTRA-SMALL OR EXTRA-LARGE HEADS?
Headgear must fit properly for optimum performance. To find the most comfortable fit for your headgear, follow the headgear fit guide to find your correct size. Please contact Resistol Customer Service if you have any questions.
Click here to download the RideSafe Measuring Tape to print and cut out.
DOES THE RIDESAFE HEADGEAR COME IN DIFFERENT HEAD SHAPES: ROUND VS LONG OVAL?
Resistol RideSafe headgear makes the RideSafe hat using the basic round shape in four sizes. The long oval fit is accomplished by using the supplied inner sizing pads.
WILL IT AFFECT FIT OR SAFETY IF I WEAR MY HAIR UP UNDER MY HEADGEAR?
It is important to wear your headgear snug and comfortable so that it does not move while you are riding. It is recommended that the hair be worn down to maintain a correct snug, comfortable fit. If not you must be sure the headgear is fitted properly to obtain a snug fit. That means the helmet must not rock forward or back or from side to side when worn.
WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY HEADGEAR?
All headgear will wear over time depending upon the user and the environment in which it is used. Headgear used several days a week will wear faster than headgear used by weekend riders. By taking care of your RideSafe headgear you will ensure it will last longer. Inspecting your headgear regularly will help identify any issues to let you know when to replace your headgear. Due to evolving helmet standards, new material technologies and exposure to the environment, it is recommended that you replace your headgear within five years from the date of purchase. Any headgear involved in an accident should be replaced immediately. The materials and construction of your RideSafe headgear is designed to crush and possibly fracture to reduce as much energy as possible on impact, so it should be replaced after one impact.
WHAT IF I DROP MY RIDESAFE HEADGEAR?
All headgear when dropped by itself, will sustain a straight down drop from approximately six feet on solid flat earth without damaging the inner padding systems. However, after any drop the headgear must be inspected thoroughly. The outer surface of the shell should not have any cracks or deep scratches. Check for any small cracks around the perimeter of the shell. Check the retention system, straps and buckles for any missing or cracked or broken components. Any dirt or other material on the shell, inner padding or retention system needs to be removed using a soft wet cloth and or brush. If in any doubt on the condition of your headgear, you must contact Resistol’s customer service.
IS IT SAFE TO USE BORROWED HEADGEAR?
Avoid loaning your headgear or borrowing headgear. You want to know exactly what kind of condition your headgear is in at all times. The headgear may have been impacted, misused or stored with harmful cleaners or chemicals that could cause deterioration to the materials. Borrowed headgear is also a way in which head lice can be transferred from one person to another.