Helmets
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Helmets
Helmets are a recommended safety device for anyone riding a bike. They come in various shapes and sizes so picking the one most suitable for the type of cycling your undertaking is important. It should fit snugly (not too loose, not too tight), and not have any damage. It’s worth visiting a local bike shop to see what they have available and ask for advice on sizing if you’re looking to buy one. If you are looking to start cycling or commuting by bike, the most important thing is to choose a helmet that is comfortable which you will want to wear. A lot of cycle equipment can be purchased 2nd hand but we would recommend always buying a helmet new.
Helmet Types
Mountain Bike
The most common helmets are fairly lightweight and have a peak to help protect from the sun and rain. These are well ventilated and have padding to ensure a snug fit.
Road
Very similar to mountain bike helmets but without the peak. These will be lighter and very well ventilated with the aim of keeping the rider cool when speeds increase.
BMX
These are a full hardshell helmet designed for use for BMX riding and skateboarding. With minimal ventilation, these helmets offer complete head protection while trading off weight and temperature regulation.
Childrens
Make sure your child has a helmet which fits properly, as they grow they may need a bigger one! For example helmets designed for infants are deeper at the rear to protect the back of their head. Pick a helmet that your child wants to wear. If they don’t like the look of it, they won’t want to wear it.
Replacing your helmet
After a fall or even if you’ve just dropped your helmet on the ground, you should check for any signs of damage. Dents on the exterior, or cracking on the interior, will mean the helmet is damaged and won’t do anything to protect your head if you have an accident. Bike helmets will also have a expiry date on them, and should be replaced every 3 to 5 years.
Sizing
Helmets don’t come in a universal size. You need to know what size your head is before buying. Helmets are measured in the circumference of your head, around 2.5cms above your eyebrows. Different brands will suit different shaped heads, so it really is worth trying on a few to see which suits you best.
Fitting
If your helmet isn’t correctly adjusted to your head then it won’t work and might even make things worse in a crash. The helmet should be positioned straight on your head sitting a few centimetres above your eyebrows. It will cover your forehead and the back of your head, without interfering with your neck movement or obscuring vision.
Many helmets have an adjustment system at the back of the head for a snug fit. The chin strap should be adjusted so that it cannot slip in front of your chin, but you can still fit two fingers between your skin and the strap. Your ear should fit comfortably in the ‘Y’ shape of the straps - there is often an adjustable buckle under the ear to get the perfect fit.
You can read more about helmet fit here.
Handy Tip: Is your helmet snug to your head? With the strap undone, place your hands out in front of you with your palms facing up. Now tip your head forward and upside down and, being ready to catch your helmet if it falls off, give your head a gentle wobble. A well fit helmet should stay put. If it falls into your hands then re-adjust the fit, and try again.
MIPS
If you’re purchasing a helmet it’s worth looking for the MIPS logo. It’s become a widely adopted standard in recent years. “Mips means a safety system for helmets developed with the intention to reduce rotational motion to the brain in the event of a crash.” Find out more
