Helmets are an essential part of any cyclists gear for both young riders and adults. The distance ridden has no bearing on whether you should wear a helmet. The fact is that anyone riding anywhere, anytime needs the protection. Use your head and think about the danger that lurks out in the world for those that ride a bike without a helmet.
The first thing to do is to make sure the helmet fits properly.
- A poorly fitting helmet will not offer the protection that is needed. It can slip forward, backward, or side to side exposing the head to injury. It must fit snugly on the top flat part of the head while riding low towards the forehead.
Measuring your head helps to determine what size to try on.
- Many manufacturers provide a sizing chart to help customers who are ordering helmets online. Specialized
http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/pdf/ helmet-sizing-chart.pdf is a company who offers a comprehensive chart for those needing help about sizing. A Giro measuring guide can be found at http://www.giro.com/giro/fitguide/helmet/giro_sizing_ chart.pdf and is very easy to use.
When trying on a helmet, there is a test to determine size simply by using a one or two finger width just above the eyebrow. It should not ride back or forward beyond that. To far forward can actually impede the rider’s vision.
- We have all seen the grown man with the helmet sitting on the side of his head or the young girl who is afraid to mess up her hair so she wears it tilted back. Wearing it correctly actually looks better and is much safer.
The buckles and straps are there to help fit the helmet properly.
- The straps should form a “V” shape that is positioned just in front of both ears. The chin strap with the buckle needs to be connected and fit snuggly. The one or two finger test under the strap indicates a good fit, and using the pads that come with it can make it more comfortable and secure.
Always use the rubber band or locking units to prevent any of the straps from slipping.
- Children need the right size helmet, so never buy them too big expecting the child to grow or let them wear one that is too small. They are really quite affordable and protection is always the first priority.
Helmets need to be replaced immediately if they have been damaged at all.
- Even dropping them hard can compromise the integrity of the helmet. Replace if needed and size the new helmet for the perfect fit.
A gentleman during our local triathlon hurriedly put his cycling helmet on backwards and as luck would have it the camera caught it for everyone to see later. He did fix the situation before going out on his bike but people had a good chuckle over it on social media websites. Lesson here is: do not put your helmet on backwards and if you do don’t do it in front of the photographer.
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