How To Choose The Perfect Bike Helmet

If you’re reading this article it probably means you understand the importance of wearing a bike helmet when you ride. All of our helmets in the EU standard for impact protection, but there are few other factors to consider when shopping for your perfect helmet 

Fit and Comfort

Above all what is important is your comfort when wearing the helmet - it needs to fit properly as poor fit would compromise protection. You’ll need to find the right size for your head and adjust the helmet properly. Finding the right helmet would help you enjoy your cycling safely and comfortably.

To find the right size start by measuring your head’s circumference, with a flexible tape around the largest part of your head - or alternatively, wrap a string around your head and measure it.

Bike helmets sizes*:

• XS - 51cm
• S - 51cm-55cm
• M - 55cm-59cm
• L - 59cm-63cm
• XL - 63cm

*These sizes vary a bit by brand

**If you’re in between sizes, go with the smaller size

How to adjust your hemet?

1. Use the adjustment wheel - many of the helmets have an adjustment wheel which you can use to get a good fit
2. Adjust the chin strap - the strap should form a V and rest under each ear
3. Open your mouth wide - with the chin strap buckled open your mouth wide, the helmet should press against the top of your head as you do so

A good fitting helmet should be snug but not very tight, it shouldn’t tilt back on your head.

Features

Cycling helmets are made of two major parts - the plastic shell and the lining.The plastic shell provides the resistance on impact, and the liner protects your head from the inside.

But other than these two basic features in a bike helmet there are a few more elements you should consider:

1. Ventilation - when these exist they improve the wind flow to your head keeping it cool, the more vents you have in your helmet the more light it would be
2. Visor - helping you shield from the sun
3. Full face protection - added for mountain bikers, some helmets include a chin bar to protect your face when riding downhill

When picking your helmet you should match it to your own riding style -

• Recreational - would be cheaper than the alternative and are suited for casual riding
• Road - light weight and well ventilated
• Mountain - offer improved coverage of the face

How to care for your helmet?

Most manufacturers recommend using a cloth or sponge and water with little soap

Excessive heat may damage the helmet - do not store your helmet where heat can accumulate

When to replace your helmet?

As bike helmets are designed to absorb one single impact, even if the helmet looks ok after any type of accident you should replace it.

If no impacts have happened (hooray!) you should still replace your helmet after five years.

Browse our bike helmets selection now