Equestrians devoted to both safety and style have consistently looked to the innovators at Charles Owen. With its new EQ^x helmet line, Charles Owen is announcing a revolution—in both design and price.

The company unveiled the EQ^x line with the Kylo helmet in May, and it’s already become a bestseller as equestrians take advantage of the

Kylo’s pioneering dial-fit feature, three international safety certifications, and a variety of style options, all at a price point between $148 and $185.

“The Charles Owen name has long been synonymous with the best in equestrian safety and innovation,” CEO Dave Derby said when announcing the EQ^x. “We recognized a year ago that our customers were under growing pressure to keep up with the increasing cost of living while still keeping their horses. So we set about designing a collection under a new brand name of EQ^x, which specifically gives riders a much more affordable riding helmet at a lower price than they may have seen from us before, but without any compromise on safety. The EQ^x brand launched with its hero style, the Kylo. Kylo offers style, comfort, and safety all in one at an affordable price, making it available to everyone, with more products to follow in the months and years ahead.”

We were curious about the Kylo’s dial-fit feature and more. So we asked Derby and Head of Innovation Matt Stewart to tell us more about how it works and how it can enhance safety—and how they were able to create this new, budget-friendly line without lowering their safety standards.

How does dial-fit work? Does it promote safety?

Matt Stewart: “The dial-fit helmet works through a notch that can be twisted to tighten or loosen the helmet. The Kylo is available in three shells: small (which is 52 cm to 55 cm) medium (55-58 cm), and large (58-61 cm). The dial-fit allows for multiple sizes within each shell, making the fitting process easier and faster. Dial-fit also allows for a complete, snug fit all around the skull, protecting areas that could be exposed if in a fall.”

How was Charles Owen able to provide a high-quality helmet at such a budget-friendly price point without compromising Charles Owen's famously high standards for safety?

Dave Derby: “Kylo is the result of 12 months of hard work, investing in new design practices, and exploring different routes to market. We’ve had to think outside the box when it comes to sourcing and procurement to guarantee the highest performance materials for the lowest price. This allows us to deliver this stunning helmet for such an affordable price.

“EQ^x represents an exciting new offering from Charles Owen to service a specific customer need. However, our current customers can be assured that there will be no change to our core Charles Owen range, with more designs on the way in the months to come!”

What are some key safety features the Kylo offers?

Matt Stewart: “Kylo is certified to three international safety standards, including ASTM, VG1, and PAS015, and it also offers the option to have MIPS technology included.”

You’ve described the Kylo as a "future-proofed" helmet. What does that mean?

Matt Stewart: “The Kylo should be unaffected by upcoming changes to the European VG1 standard and the United States’ ASTM standard, so customers can buy this style safe in the knowledge they won’t have to change their helmet again when the new standards are launched.”

Learn more about the Kylo and place your order the Kylo at charlesowen.com. Learn more about helmet fitting and safety and get tips for selecting and replacing a helmet here.