SUPA: The Schools and Universities Polo Association Ltd

2008 Hats

SUPA acknowledge the contribution of The Pony Club to the development of this rule

SUPA recommends that all players wear a protective helmet manufactured to one of the minimum standards listed below. It must bear the CE mark and a quality symbol, either the BSI Kitemark, the SAI Global symbol or the official Snell label with number. The CE symbol on its own is not sufficient to ensure consistent standard of manufacture. The PAS 015:1998 and the Snell E2001 meet higher impact criteria and therefore give more protection.

PAS 015:1998 or
EN 1384:1996
BS EN 1384:1997

with the BSI Kitemark

Picture to follow

Snell E2001 with the official Snell label and number

AS/NZS 3838 1998 or

AS/NZS 3838 2003

NB The prefix ‘BS’ on the

EN 1384 standard does not mean that the hat has undergone batch testing by the British Standards Institute – the hat must contain the BSI Kitemark as well.

Picture to follow

The fit of the hat and the adjustment of the harness are as crucial as the quality. Members are advised to try several makes to find the best fit, the hat should not move on the head when the head is tipped forward. It is strongly recommended that second hand hats are not purchased.

Hats must be replaced after a severe impact, subsequent protection will be significantly reduced. Hats deteriorate with age and should be replaced after three to five years depending upon the amount of use.