XC do u need a skull cap

If I go to the new barn I found, I will eventually do xc as they are making a course. In that case I'd buy a protective vest, but do I need a skull cap? Or is a regular helmet ok for lower levels?

A regular astm/sei approved helmet is fine, IMO, I've always just used a regular helmet :)

Whichever fits you best. XC can be a jarring ride with the varried terrain, so make sure the helmet fits nice and snug. Don't want it coming down over your eyes on approach to a solid fence like mine did.

Thanks! :) Does someone know what is a good and inexpensive brand for body vests? I see a lot of them tend to be in the 200-300$ range. When I get one I don;t think I'd be able to spend more than 150-180. :/

I found this vest. It's fairly inexpensive and has the necessary safety requirements. The only thing that bugs me is that the reason it's so cheap may be because it's not comfortable? I searched the Internet for reviews but didn't even find one! So I can't get feedback, which is frustrating. :/

Lami-Cell Adult Body Protector and Body Protectors | EQUESTRIAN COLLECTIONS.COM

If you want a cheaper, safe vest, I really like flex rider. Some people say they are uncomfortable, but you just get used to it. I would not get a tipperary vest that has the individual squares on it, they are not approved and not as safe.

Whatever you get (vest), be sure it meets the requirements. The ones with all the individual cells are not certified against anything, so they aren't guarenteed to offer any protection at all.

Whatever helmet fits you well is what works. I have a schooling helmet with a cover so it matches my gear. As for vests, make sure it meets the safety standards.

Ladies' IntecŪ Flex-Rider Body Protector* | Dover Saddlery

This one is rated and pretty cheap. I had an older model like this for breaking horses, the tail bone protection does make it difficult to sit deep, but you get used to it, and you should be light in the saddle on XC anyways.

Thank you all for all the info. :)

I don't know what the rules are over there, but here in the UK you can't do XC in a fixed peak hat, so some type of skull cap is required. The fixed peak is considered dangerous when dealing with solid fences.