10 Best Horse Riding Helmet Cameras (Buying Guide)

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You’ve probably seen some cool videos from a horse riding helmet camera and want to try it out yourself.

I don’t blame you, it looks pretty fun to record your ride looking between your horse’s ears!

I’ve put together a guide of 10 of the best options for using on your riding hat.

Let’s take a look!

Check: Best Equestrian Helmets to Try

Helmet Cameras for Horse Riders Top Picks at a Glance

This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

• RunCam 2 FPV Camera (WINNER) 
• Black Box Mobius Pro Mini Action Camera
• GoPro HERO8
• Drift Ghost XL Waterproof Action Camera
• AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action Camera

Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!

10 Best Horse Riding Helmet Camera (Reviews)

When you start looking, you’ll see that there is a lot of choices and it gets pretty confusing. After a setback questioning the safety of using a helmet cam, BBC Saftey requested a review carried out by the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL).

The study found “In fact, in not one of over 70 tests on various helmet types, mounting types or mounting positions did the presence of the camera cause the helmet to ‘fail’ the injury threshold standards.”

Since then their use has grown loads in popularity, so much so that you can easily get overwhelmed. This brings me back to my all-time favorites.

Most cameras are for capturing action doing a variety of activities, so what ones will work as a horse riding helmet cam?

Here are 10 great options for horse riders to suit a variety of budgets.

#1 RunCam 2 FPV Camera (WINNER) 

There are lots of cameras available that you can find a way to mount onto your riding helmet. However, one of the most important features riders needs is something lightweight. The RunCam is a small and very light camera that has lots of great features.

The wide-angle lens will capture all the action as you gallop through the countryside, along the beach, or go jumping. It also records in 1080p, which means the picture quality is good. 

I really like how this camera has Wi-Fi, so you can quickly connect it via an app to preview it and download it. It also comes with a lens hood, which helps prevent too much light from leaking in and causing problems with the image quality.

You can easily turn it on and off to control your recording with the simple push of a button. The micro USB slot is protected by a door that prevents it from falling out while you are moving or even if you fall off. 

What of the best features of this horse riding helmet cam is that you get 60 to 90 minutes of recording time from a fully charged battery. The kit comes with one replaceable 850mAh battery.

With the battery in it weighs only 49 grams. That’s pretty light!

The price is pretty good as well, coming in at under $100.

Physical Attributes

• Lens hood
• Comes in black or orange
• USB power input
• 850 mAh battery
• 4 megapixels sensor resolution
• 1 mount
• 1 USB cable

Measurements

• Weighs just 49 grams
• 66mm(L) x  38mm(W) x 21mm(H)

Benefits & Drawbacks of RunCam 2 FPV Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
Small and lightweight	Poor instruction manual
USB charging	Bit tricky to mount on a riding helmet
Wi-Fi	Needs airflow or it can overheat
Good price

How it Compares to Others and Why

For a good value light camera for riding helmets, this is one of the best options in my guide.

Expert Tips

The camera lens is sensitive to smudging, which will affect your image quality. Be careful not to touch the lens and keep it clean. Learn how to set up this camera here.

Check: Best Horse Riding Helmet Bag

#2 Black Box Mobius Pro Mini Action Camera

The Black Box Mobius is a great budget-friendly camera that equestrians can mount onto their riding helmet.  It can record in full 1080P HD, so you know your videos will have great clarity.

It has an excellent bit rate, so you know it will be able to keep up with the action. The recording time is one of the best available for such a small camera at such a reasonable price. When your battery is full, you can expect to get 100 to 140 minutes of power.

There are no special cables needed to charge the camera up. All you need is a USB charging cable. One of my favorite features of the horse riding helmet camera is that works in low light. That means you can use it if you are riding in an indoor arena.

Physical Attributes

• HD video
• 820 mAh battery
• Records audio
• Mount base
• Velcro sleeve
• Lens cover
• USB cable

Measurements

• Weighs 1 ounce
• Dimensions are 2” x 1” x 1”

Benefits & Drawbacks of Black Box Mobius Pro Mini Action Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
Budget friendly	The package doesn’t include the instruction manual, you have to search online for the PDF
Long battery life	Not waterproof
HD video	Can be slow to charge

How it Compares to Others and Why

This is one of the cheaper cameras I’ve included in this guide. It’s not perfect, but it packs a lot of punch for the money.

Expert Tips

There is software for this mini camera. Many users recommend getting this and using it. You will get better results. World famous jockey Mike Smith is a big fan of helmet cameras. He has this to say about them: “It’s like playing a video game, it literally puts you in the saddle,” Smith said. “When you look at it on TV, you feel like you’re on the horse.” [1]

Check: Best Visors for Horse Riding Helmets

#3 GoPro HERO8

GoPro is one of the most famous portable action cameras. They are made for recording during various activities making them one of the best horse riding helmet cameras. Despite it being a larger camera it is one of the best options for equestrian sports.

Ever wonder what it’s like to ride one of the most prestigious and challenging cross country courses in the world? Get a between the ears view of the Land Rover Kentucky Three Days event with top eventing rider Elisa Wallace using a GoPro Hero.

Physical Attributes

• Head strap
• Wi-Fi
• HyperSmooth
• 32GB SD card
• 4K UHD 2160P video capability
• Fisheye lens

Measurements

• Weighs 4.32 ounces
• Dimensions 1.14” x 1.89” x 2.6”

Benefits & Drawbacks of GoPro HERO8

Benefits	Drawbacks
Kit comes with everything you need	Expensive
High quality smooth video	A little big for a horse riding hat
Waterproof

How it Compares to Others and Why

The GoPro is expensive compared to the other options. But you get a reputable brand the creates excellent video and the camera comes with everything you need.

Expert Tips

This camera works best outside in good light.

#4 Drift Ghost XL Waterproof Action Camera

If you want one of the best battery life helmet cameras for horse riders then check out the Drift Ghost. This camera is a little large but it is sleek and has a rotating lens.

Physical Attributes

• External microphone capability
• 9-hours of battery life
• Rotatable lens
• Waterproof

Measurements

• Dimensions 3.62” x 1.85” x 1.38”
• Weighs 4.59 ounces

Benefits & Drawbacks of Drift Ghost XL Waterproof Action Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
Fantastic battery life	Software interface is poor
Can use in the rain	Video quality isn’t as good as could be
Takes a large SD card up to 128GB

How it Compares to Others and Why

The best feature of this helmet camera is its battery life. It has good quality video but not the best compared to others.

Expert Tips

Most cameras that you mount on a riding helmet will leave some kind of mark when you remove it. It is a good idea to only use them on riding hats that you don’t save for horse shows.

#5 AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action Camera

The Akaso is similar to the GoPro in size and ability. However, it comes in at a more affordable price. It has good battery life, a touch screen, and a helmet mount.

Physical Attributes

• Helmet mount
• Adjustable viewing angle
• 180-minutes battery life
• Image stabilization
• 4k video

Measurements

• ‎Dimension 2.36” x 1.57” x 1.18”
• Weighs 1.12 pounds

Benefits & Drawbacks of AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
Touch screen	Heavy
HD video	Sound quality is lacking
Waterproof
Built-in Wi-Fi

How it Compares to Others and Why

If you want something similar to a GoPro but at a more affordable price, I really like this product compared to the others.

Expert Tips

Unfortunately, this camera doesn’t have a lens cap. But a great tip I picked up is that a Coke bottle cap fits well. Just make sure to line the cap with some foam paper and you’re all set!

#6 Sena PT10-10 Multi Prism Tube WiFi Action Camera for Helmet

This is a discreet camera that is designed specifically for mounting helmets.

Physical Attributes

• ‎1 Lithium polymer battery
• Wi-Fi
• Comes in black
• 125-degree field of view

Measurements

• Weighs 12.6 ounces
• Dimensions  ‎5.5” x 8.9” x 1.8”

Benefits & Sena PT10-10 Multi Prism Tube WiFi Action Camera for Helmet

Benefits	Drawbacks
Made for helmets	Poor app
Wi-Fi	Very slow Wi-Fi transfer
One-Touch recording

How it Compares to Others and Why

This camera is specifically designed to mount on a helmet. However, it is slightly more expensive than some of the others but the cost doesn’t mean it is a better camera.

Expert Tips

If you like everything else about this camera, transfer your videos by connecting them directly to your computer instead of using the Wi-Fi feature.

When mounting this camera you will have to put it in a different place than this expert does in this video, but it’s a great explanation of how to set up the camera.

#7 Insta360 GO 2 – Small Action Camera

I like how this camera is small and light. You can also mount it vertically or horizontally.

Physical Attributes

• Image stabilization
• Pocket size case
• Lens guard
• 32GB internal storage

Measurements

• Weighs just 1 ounce
• Dimensions 2.08” x 0.93” x 0.81”

Benefits & Drawbacks of Insta360 GO 2 – Small Action Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
Waterproof	iOS and app connectivity is poor
Case is also a charger	A little tricky to learn how to use

How it Compares to Others and Why

The size of this camera is small and light. You can mount it in various places unlike some of the others. However, it is one of the most expensive options.

Expert Tips

The run time on this camera is only 30-minutes, so bring your pocket case with you that can give you extra charge when you’re out in about. To get the best possible video, take a look at these great tips from the brand itself. [2]

#8 Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera

For those who want a good action cam for horse riding but have a tight budget, this has to be one of my favorite options. Let’s check it out. 

It is very popular with users and only costs $70.

Physical Attributes

• 4x zoom
• Wifi
• Waterproof
• Remote control
• Comes with two 1050mAh rechargeable batteries

Measurements

• Dimensions 2.36” x 1.18” x 1.97”
• Weighs 5.28 ounces

Benefits & Drawbacks of Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
4k video capability	Remote control is not waterproof
The remote is a wrist strap	A bit large and heavy
Great budget price
90 minutes recording time gets you lots of helmet camera footage

How it Compares to Others and Why

When your camera is mounted on your helmet you can easily operate it by the remote control which you wear on your wrist. This is a really cool feature that a lot of others don’t have to leave you free to capture amazing helmet cam footage.

Expert Tips

When using an external storage card, make sure you format it before putting it in use. Connecting an app to this camera is confusing. Watch this expert user figure it out for you in this helpful video.

#9 PROGRACE Children Camera

If you have a young horse rider that keeps asking for a helmet camera but you are worried about something so expensive for a child, then look no further.

This camera is designed for kids and they can put it on their riding hats. Plus, it’s a fantastic price!

This product has tons of positive feedback, like this user “My 8 year old can use it easily, it also takes videos and has cute filters on it.”

Physical Attributes

• Waterproof outer casing
• Comes in four fun colors – pink, blue, green, and red
• 1080p video
• Lithium battery
• USB cable
• Helmet mount

Measurements

• 1.77 inches LCD screen
• Weighs 1.6 ounces

Benefits & Drawbacks of PROGRACE Children Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
Comes with 40 funny effects for adorable video	Memory card hard to push in and take out
Comes with 7 color filters
Only $40
Great starter camera for kids

How it Compares to Others and Why

Unlike the others, this camera is made especially for kids. It is versatile so it can be used for lots of activities including as a horse riding helmet camera.

Expert Tips

This camera doesn’t come with a micro SD card but you can pick up a compatible 32GB one for less than $10.

#10 DJI Osmo Action – 4K Action Camera

Despite its small size, this camera is packed with the latest features. 

This happy rider got some great riding footage with their Osmo Action riding in the countryside. Check it out.

Physical Attributes

• Dual LCD screen
• RockSteady technology
• 4K HDR video
• 1080p resolution
• Waterproof
• Three aspherical layers lens

Measurements

• Dimensions 2.56” x 1.65” x 1.38”
• 4.4 ounces

Benefits & Drawbacks of DJI Osmo Action – 4K Action Camera

Benefits	Drawbacks
8x slow motion	Can overheat
Voice control	Expensive
Lots of features to get perfect shots

How it Compares to Others and Why

This camera is pretty expensive. It produces good quality video but lacks HDMI output like many GoPros which are around the same price.

Expert Tips

You will need 1 Lithium polymer rechargeable battery for this camera. I find it’s always good to have a second one charged up so you don’t get caught out.

Things to Consider When Buying Helmet Cameras For Horse Riding

When buying helmet cameras for horse riding there are a few features that you can’t go without. 

Durability

Spending time around the barn and with horses means your gear can take a beating. Helmet cameras for horse riders need to be fairly tough as they will be exposed to the elements, horses, and dirt.

Waterproof

While a waterproof camera isn’t essential, I recommend you get one that it. It means you can use it in the rain and don’t have to worry about mud or water from the ground damaging it.

Size and Mount

Very few cameras are made specifically for horse riding helmets. When choosing one for equestrian activities you will need one that is secure as you don’t want it to fall off as your jumping or galloping. A helmet camera mount is essential. Also, lighter and smaller will mean that you are less likely to notice it on your riding hat.

If you have chosen a GoPro, check out this video that shows you how to attach it to your riding helmet.

FAQs

With the overwhelming choice of small, mountable action cameras it is no surprise you have questions. Here are a few answers to help you out.

Conclusion

The GoPro is the most famous action camera and the one you will find loads of horse rider footage. It is a great choice but it isn’t the most price friendly.

You might have to do some experimenting the find the best place to put your camera but so long as it is secure, you’re all set. I’m looking forward to seeing all your amazing videos!

Resources

• 1. Rybaltowski M. Mike Smith Views Jockey Helmet Cam As Wave Of The Future Ahead Of Breeders’ Cup Launch [Internet]. Forbes. [cited 2022 Jan 4]. Available from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattrybaltowski/2017/11/03/mike-smith-views-jockey-helmet-cam-as-wave-of-the-future-ahead-of-breeders-cup-launch/?sh=215e01ea2dd6
• 2. Insta360 GO 2 Pro Tips & Best Settings for High-Quality Videos [Internet]. Insta360 Blog. 2021 [cited 2022 Jan 4]. Available from: https://blog.insta360.com/insta360-go-2-pro-tips-best-settings-for-high-quality-videos/

What is your favorite horse riding helmet camera? Let us know in the comments below!