Some people believe that a bicycle helmet can be used for everything, but that is not the case. Bicycle helmets are not motorcycle helmets. Motorcycle helmets are designed for very hard impacts. Motorcyclists need this because in a crash, their heads can hit the road surface at 55 MPH or faster. Bicycle helmets are not equestrian helmets.
Horse riders are higher than bicyclists when they fall.
On the ground, they must also be protected from being kicked by the horse. Helmets used for horseback riding are made to absorb these impacts. They also are shaped differently to protect the back of the rider's head. Bicycle helmets are not canoe and kayak helmets. Injuries from whitewater rafting are usually caused by rocks, logs, and other debris.