Start with the organisation and activity you ride under. A hat listing a recognised standard still needs the right quality assurance mark, and an event may set extra requirements for its shape or use.
A number alone isn't enough
The BHS Approved Centres and BHS Assessments 2026 document lists standard, date and quality-mark combinations. For example, its PAS 015:2011 entry requires a BSI Kitemark or Inspec IC Mark. Its ASTM F1163:2015 entry requires an SEI mark.
Read those elements together. A product description mentioning only PAS 015, or a photograph that doesn't show the full label, leaves something to check with the retailer or fitter.
Match the document to the riding
Our BHS hat-label lookup compares those combinations with this one document. It does not check British Eventing, Pony Club, British Riding Clubs or another organisation's rules. It also cannot inspect your hat's condition or decide whether its shape suits your activity.
Before attending an assessment or event:
- Find the organiser's current rules, including any updates issued after the main document.
- Check the whole label, rather than relying on a shortened standard name.
- Ask the organiser about any activity-specific restrictions or tagging arrangements.
- Arrange a fitting with a trained fitter and follow the manufacturer's care and replacement instructions.
Keep a copy of the rulebook link with your event details. Recheck it when the season or year changes; a previous year's document isn't confirmation for the next one.
A label check doesn't check fit
The BHS hat guidance recommends professional fitting and explains why second-hand hats can be a concern: damage may not be visible. Read our hat fitting guide before choosing equipment.
Sources checked 25 October 2026. This guide describes a BHS document, not a UK-wide legal requirement.