Bike Helmet Safety

Your helmet should fit you comfortably and correctly. So, how do you choose the right helmet?

Choosing the Right Fit

The biggest key to choosing the right bike helmet is finding one that fits you. Helmets are either multifit (highly adjustable to a range of head sizes) or sized to fit - typically sized in inches. To find the right size, use a tape measure to measure around the largest portion of your head. This will be about 2-3 cms above your eyebrows. Look for a helmet that matches that measurement. If you're between sizes, order the smaller size. Alternatively call in to your bike shop professionals.

Many helmets have a fitting system that includes sizing pads and adjustable straps. A good-fitting helmet will be snug, but not tight. It should sit level on your head (not tilted back) with the front edge no more than about 2 or 3cms above your eyebrows. Push the helmet from side to side and back to front. If the helmet shifts in any direction, use the sizing pads provided with the helmet to snug up the fit. Next, buckle and tighten the chinstrap. Adjust the straps around the ears so that they are snug against your head and not interfering with your ears. Push up on the front edge of the helmet, then up on the back edge. If the helmet moves significantly in either direction, tighten the chinstrap and try again. Finally, with the strap buckled, open your mouth. If the helmet doesn't press firmly down against your forehead as you do so, tighten further and repeat. You should be able to shake your head upside down without your helmet falling off.

Helmet Safety – what to check, especially after a crash

Any time your helmet is involved in an accident, it's likely to get damaged. Since damage isn't always easy to spot visually, replace the helmet after any significant impact, even if everything "looks" okay. If you drop your helmet from a short height to the ground – check for damage. We would also recommend replacing any well used helmet after 5 years, even if it hasn't been involved in a crash, since pollution, UV light and weathering can weaken its component parts over time. What to look for when checking if your helmet is safe:

-       No cracks in the external shell

-       No cracks in internal polystyrene

-       No fraying in the straps

-       No cracks in the buckles

-       All the padding is complete and not worn out (replacement pads for helmets are on hand in majority of bike shops)

-       No parts of the shell are missing or sharp edges (these can catch on tarseal)

-       No indents in the shell

-       Make sure if fits correctly to your head (see above) and under your chin

Kids don’t have so much control as to how they fall off their bike, as opposed to adults. There is a temptation to go for a bigger helmet until they grow into it which is a definite no no.

To care for your helmet

-       store out of sunlight

-       transport it carefully – don’t let it go flying around in your boot

-       do not store in hot water cupboards as they deteriorate quicker in heat

-       ideally store in a cool environment away from light (your garage is perfect)

-       Putting your helmet into a hard shell case is ideal

-       pads can be removed and washed