Samshield Repair Restyle Service
A riding hat can look completely undamaged after a fall while having absorbed a significant impact internally. With Samshield’s restart service, eligible helmets can be professionally assessed and rebuilt at the Samshield workshop in France.
Whether your hat has been involved in a fall or you fancy giving it a new look, Forelock & Load can help arrange the process for you.
Why should a riding hat be checked after a fall?
A Samshield helmet combines a strong outer shell with an impact absorbing inner shell. During a fall, the inner material compresses to help absorb and disperse energy. Once compressed, it may not return to its original condition. This damage is not always visible from the outside, so a hat that appears perfectly fine may no longer offer the same level of protection. Samshield recommends having your helmet assessed following any fall or significant impact. You should not continue riding in a helmet that has taken a knock while waiting for it to be checked.
Samshield ReStart: after a fall or impact
ReStart is Samshield’s inspection and rebuilding service for eligible helmets. Your hat is returned to L’Atelier Samshield in France where it is examined by Samshield’s specialist team. The internal impact absorbing shell is replaced as part of the process. Standard external components, including the top, front band, blazon and trim, are also inspected and may be repaired or replaced where necessary. If your helmet has customised components that cannot be repaired, Samshield will provide a separate quotation before replacing them. Please note if a stud or another object has pierced the external shell of the helmet, it will not be able to be repaired.
The ReStart process has been independently validated by the French CRITT testing laboratory.
ReStart is normally available for qualifying Samshield helmets purchased within the last five years. Proof of purchase is required. Prices are set by Samshield, so please contact Forelock & Load for the current cost, including carriage, before bringing or sending your helmet to us.
Samshield ReStyle: give your helmet a new look
Perhaps your riding wardrobe has changed, you would like a more contemporary finish or you simply fancy something different. The Samshield ReStyle allows you to update selected decorative elements of an eligible Samshield helmet.
Depending on your helmet model and the current Samshield collection, possible changes may include:
- A different top
- A new front band
- A change of trim
- A different blazon
- Selected crystal or decorative finishes
Because the helmet must be opened and rebuilt, every ReStyle service also includes the ReStart inspection and replacement of the internal shell at a reduced associated rate.
The ReStyle charge consists of the safety service plus the cost of the new components you choose. Tell us what you have in mind and we can confirm the available options and pricing.
How the process works with Forelock & Load
- Contact us. Speak to us in store, by telephone, email or live chat. We will need to know your helmet model, size, approximate purchase date and whether you require ReStart, ReStyle or both.
- Provide proof of purchase. If you bought the helmet from Forelock & Load, we may already have a record of your purchase. If it was bought elsewhere, you will need to provide a copy of the original receipt.
- Bring or send us your helmet. We will inspect the helmet, help complete the required paperwork and arrange for it to be sent securely to Samshield in France.
- Samshield assesses and rebuilds it. The specialist team at L’Atelier Samshield will carry out the appropriate work and advise us if any additional components or charges require your approval.
- Your helmet is returned. Once the work is complete, the helmet is returned to Forelock & Load. We will check it when it arrives and contact you to arrange collection or delivery.
The process normally takes approximately four weeks from dispatch, although timings can vary depending on workshop demand, transport and component availability. If you ride or compete regularly, you will need a second correctly fitted hat while yours is away.
Does my Samshield helmet need ReStart?
You should arrange an assessment following any fall or significant impact, even if:
- The outer shell is not visibly marked
- You did not hit the ground particularly hard
- The helmet still feels comfortable
- You cannot see any cracks or dents
If you are unsure, bring the helmet into Forelock & Load and tell us what happened. We can inspect it and explain the available options, although only the manufacturer can make the final assessment.
A helmet that has not sustained an impact does not routinely need ReStart. However, riding hats do not last indefinitely. Age, frequent use, heat, moisture, storage conditions and everyday wear can all affect their condition.
Samshield’s five-year eligibility period should not be interpreted as a guarantee that every helmet remains suitable for use for five years. Replace a helmet sooner if its condition, history or fit gives you cause for concern.
What about the removable liner?
The washable liner is separate from the helmet’s impact-absorbing inner shell and is not replaced as part of ReStart.
If your liner is worn, damaged or no longer provides the correct fit, Forelock & Load can help you select a suitable replacement. A properly fitted liner is essential, so we recommend having the fit checked rather than simply changing liner size without advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I arrange ReStyle without ReStart?
No. As the helmet must be opened and rebuilt, Samshield includes the ReStart safety process with every ReStyle.
Can the top or front band be changed?
Selected tops, front bands, trims and blazons can be changed, subject to the helmet model and availability. Components are model-specific, so not every option will fit every Samshield helmet.
Can Forelock & Load arrange this for a helmet bought elsewhere?
Yes, subject to Samshield’s eligibility requirements. You will need to provide valid proof of purchase.
Do I need to send the helmet to France myself?
No. Forelock & Load can manage the paperwork and shipment to Samshield on your behalf.
How long does it take?
Allow approximately four weeks, although it may take longer during busy periods or when particular components must be ordered.
Can you guarantee that my helmet can be repaired?
No. Eligibility and the final decision rest with Samshield following inspection. We will contact you if the workshop identifies additional work, charges or an issue that prevents the requested service from being completed.
Arrange a Samshield ReStart or ReStyle
If your Samshield helmet has been involved in a fall—or you would like to explore the available ReStyle options—contact the Forelock & Load team.
We can check your helmet’s details, explain the process, provide the current pricing and arrange its return to the Samshield workshop.
Visit us near Bury St Edmunds, call the shop 01284 811032 or contact us online to get started.
