Helmets

Helmets come in many different styles the one thing they all have in common is protecting you! In this article we will cover different styles, cost factors, ratings, and proper fit.

Mountain biking helmets generally fall into five categories:

1. Standard Issue
2. Skate Style
3. Full Face
4. Cross Country
5. Kids

What affects helmet costs?

When it comes to safety any helmet is clearly better that no helmet at all. How a helmet is manufactured and the level of technology that goes into will affect the cost. For example: More vents will often equal more money, internal frames, molded shells etc. Exotic composites are definitely another price influence. Also more available sizing options. 

What exactly does Helmet rating mean anyway?

Maybe you have noticed or maybe not at all but your helmet actually does have a "rating" There are a number of standards that will certify which helmets are idea for certain activities etc. For example a full face downhill helmet has a much greater "speed rating" that a cross country or kids helmet. 

• DOT vs. Snell vs. CPSC vs. ASTM ???
• The above entities are in place to list guidelines for intended helmet usage. 
• CPSC - (Consumer Product Safety Commission) Adequate for regular bicycle use, falls short for extreme riding or motorized use. 
• DOT  Approved for motorized usage 
• While DOT-approved helmets are considered safe for motorized use, Snell standards are still higher and include a system for testing the chin bar’s strength—something that neither the CPSC or the DOT cover—making Snell-approved helmets ideal for competition motor sports and aggressive DH, as well. Snell- and DOT-approved helmets can also be subjected to multiple impacts. (BackCountry.com)
• ASTM- (American Society of Testing Materials) ASTM helmet regulations don’t meet the DOT’s penetration and multiple-impact standards, but they do meet or exceed impact standards—and, like Snell, ASTM has a chin bar standard. What this means is ASTM-certified helmets are lighter, well ventilated and provide adequate one-use-impact protection for all-mountain and free riding. (BackCountry.com)

So how is a helmet supposed to fit?
Once you have finalizing which helmet that is going to fit the particular style of riding it's time to talk fit.  Helmets should not be too loose, nor should the fit be to tight. If your not sure of your head size a tape measure works well, or simple have your local bike retailer size you up. A proper fitting helmet is once that should be level on the head (like wearing a baseball cap). Helmets that are improperly fitting, loose etc will most certainly not do the proper job of protecting the rider. In-regards to the straps, depending on the brand and style. they should be set up to make a "v" with your ears properly centered. The clip / closure of the helmet should be such that you are able to place a finger and a half under your chin when the strap is buckled. Please also note that unless your helmet is a skate style (multi-impact) upon any type of fall inspect helmet and replace it.

What happens if I crash:
Well hopefully the crash was not anything to serious...good news you were wearing a helmet (LOL)
First things first make sure YOU are ok, NOT the your bike. If you do need medical assistance dial 911 or get help. (Pro-Tip: Having some type of personal identification is critical especially in a situation where you have become unconscious. In a pinch, even a piece of masking tape  placed inside your helmet with your name and emergency contact number is key.) In regards to your helmet...if the fall caused you to hit your head etc...time for a new helmet. Yes I know you may disagree, but sometimes damage to the helmet might not exactly be visible to the naked eye. Good news, many of the better manufactures have "crash replacement" programs which offer some type of new helmet purchase incentives. Otherwise...the helmet will more than likely NOT do what it's supposed to and protect your head properly the next time...

I hope these tips and suggestions help, in the mean time, happy trails & don't forget to take time to stop and enjoy the ride !!! Any other question, comments, ideas or suggestions please feel free to drop me a line I would love to hear from you !!!