How to choose the right ski helmet?

• Posted on 21 July 2021
• By Mijanou Rademakers
• Posted in ski helmet, snowboard helmet
• 0

Skiing and snowboarding are a lot of fun, however, they are not without risk. Therefore, it is wisely to wear a helmet. The fit and type of helmet will determine the level of safety it can provide. In this blog will be explained which types of helmets there are, how to choose the right type, and how to choose the right size and fit.

Skiing and snowboarding are a lot of fun, however, they are not without risk. Therefore, it is wisely to wear a helmet. In a lot of countries it is even mandatory to wear one. Although lots of people rent one, it is recommended to buy your own for several reasons. First of all, rented helmets almost never fit perfectly. Nevertheless, the fit of the helmet is one of the most important features of its safety. Secondly, the costs of renting one will be higher after a couple of times than a one-time buy. Thirdly, of course it is also fun to choose a color or design that you like!

So, how to choose the right helmet? The questions below will help you find your match.

What are you going to do?

Skiing on slope: here you have more chance of falling because of busy slopes. Choose an in-mold or hybrid type ski helmet with MIPS/Spin.

Skiing off slope: off-slope you have more chance of hitting a tree or rock. Therefore, choose a hardshell or hybrid type helmet with multi-impact and MPIS/Spin. Note: never go off-piste alone!

Snowboarding: snowboarding has a higher risk in general. Therefore, choose an in-mold or hardshell type helmet with MIPS/Spin.

So what do these types actually mean?

In-mold: In-mold helmets are very lightweight. They have several ventilation holes and absorb blows well. However, they cannot withstand hits from sharp objects. For example, a tip of a rock can penetrate your helmet, therefore it isnot suitable for off-piste.

Hardshell: The hardshell helmets are also known as bombshells. They are made of two separate layers. They are well resistant to hits from sharp objects. The disadvantages are that they are a lot heavier, and usually have fewer ventilation holes.

Hybrid: The hybrid helmets use techniques from both in-mold and hardshell ski helmets.

What fit and size do I need?

It is very important that the fit and size of the ski helmet is right for you. So not only the size is important. There are round and oval fits. If you have too much space on the sides of your head with a round ski helmet, you should have an oval ski helmet. If you have too much space at the front and back of the ski helmet with an oval helmet, you must have a round one. For the size of the helmet, you can measure the circumference of your head with a tape measure. Usually, the helmet states which head circumference is suitable for which helmet size. You can do two tests to see if the helmet fits:

• Wobble test
  See if you can move the helmet back and forth, or to left and right on your head with the chin strap loose. This should not or hardly be possible. If it is possible in only one direction, choose another fit. If it is possible in both directions, choose another size.
• Falling test
  Still keeping the chinstrap loose, bend forward. If the helmet stays on your head, then you have the right size. If not, choose a size smaller.

In addition, the bottom of the helmet should never touch your neck. This can be dangerous. It is also important that the chinstrap fits properly. It should not cut into your skin, but also not able to slide over your chin.

Finally, it is of course very important the helmet feels comfortable. You’re going to have to wear it for full days, so make sure nothing feels irritating.

Lastly, you might also want to consider whether you want a helmet with a visor. The advantages of a visor are that you don’t have to carry separate goggles with you and you have a great peripheral vision. Also this type might be extra advantageous when you have glasses, since the visor can easily go over these.

On our website you can find a diverse collection of all types of ski and snowboard helmets. Click here to find yours!