HELMETS ARE CRUCIAL FOR EXTREME SPORTS
How to Measure Your Head for a Helmet
It's simple – take a fabric measuring tape, position it about an inch above the eyebrows, and wrap it around your head. It's much easier if someone else can do this for you!
Each helmet brand has its own shape and size, so while you might be a small, medium, or large in one brand, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll be the same size in another brand.
Dos and Don'ts
While a helmet should always fit snugly, it should never be too tight. If you feel pressure on your temples when wearing the helmet, it's too tight. Helmets that are too tight can become uncomfortable after wearing them for long periods, and if a helmet is uncomfortable, you're less likely to want to wear it.
If the helmet moves around when you move your head, then it is too loose. The correct fit should embrace your head all the way around and should not wobble or come loose when you move.
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Remember that many helmets come with two sets of pads – a thicker set and a thinner set – so if it doesn’t fit quite right, try swapping the pads instead of changing the helmet.
A good fit test is to lean forward with the helmet on your head with the strap undone – if it fits well, the helmet should stay on your head and not fall off (be ready to catch it just in case).
To ensure the helmet is seated correctly on your head, make sure that the toggles (where the two top ends of the straps meet) are positioned directly below your earlobes, as shown below. This indicates that the helmet is correctly placed, not too far back or too forward.
The helmet strap also needs to be fastened correctly. When the strap is secured, you should be able to fit two fingers between your chin and the strap, as shown. If you can't do this, then the strap is too tight and likely to be very uncomfortable as well as unsafe.
A strap that's too tight will also limit movement when looking side to side and will rub on your neck! If you have more space than two fingers, then the strap is too loose and can allow the helmet to become dislodged while riding.
You should NEVER ride with your strap undone. Your helmet could easily slip too far forward or back if not secured properly, or it could even come off when you fall! You should NEVER be able to lift your helmet off your head like this!
That can lead to situations like the photo below, which is not only extremely uncomfortable but will also provide little protection if you fall. It could also result in the helmet slipping over your eyes.
A helmet should always be properly secured before you start riding, so as not to distract your concentration, visibility, or position while riding.
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You should NEVER compromise when buying a helmet! It’s always best to ensure you get the correct fit. The best way to do this is to measure your head, get the correct size, and try a few different fits to find the best one for you. Visit one of the SkateHut stores, try a few, and make sure you've got the best helmet for you!
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