Heads Up: Why Kids Need a Bike Helmet That Fits

One of the cycling safety standards that applies to all cyclists is the wearing of proper helmet fit. And kids, regardless of their age, are no exception to this rule.

Bike helmets provide the highest level of head coverage protection. They should always be worn with the chin strap fastened, and thus a correct size is crucial.

To get the right fit, understanding kids’ helmet sizes is key. Here, we’ll explore why well-fitting kids helmets are so important. At the same time, providing you with a few helpful tips for choosing the perfect helmet for your child.

Why Does Your Child Need to Wear a Bicycle Helmet?

 

Riding a kids bike is an indispensable part of every child’s childhood memories. For the younger ones, it brings a sense of independence and accomplishment. Yet, it can also be dangerous, especially if proper safety precautions aren’t taken.

Take an unexpected fall or a bad crash from a bike, for instance. Such a situation can happen anytime, particularly for a child riding a balance bike. But no matter the age, a fall during a bike ride could result in brain injuries. Fortunately, properly fitting helmets for those baby heads will reduce this risk.

Kids Helmets

Helmets for toddlers are protective gear designed to be worn by children while on wheels. Besides bikes with stabilisers, scooters and skateboards are among the activities that require wearing one.

These cycle helmets are specifically designed to fit a smaller head size of a kid. They provide additional safety features: a facial protection and impact protection system.

‘Baby helmets’ come in a variety of colours and designs. These make them appealing to little riders and encourage them to suit up. Everyone, including adults, should wear a helmet on every bike ride. But it’s NOT enough to just have it on; a helmet needs to fit properly.

Finding the Correct Bike Helmet Size and Fit

Helmet models for kids come in a range of sizes but focus on the head circumference range. For instance, the Starling Bike Helmet Silver Multi Stars has a range of S/M (48-54cm). If your child’s head circumference falls in that size, the helmet should be a fit!

The steps below will guide you through finding how should bike helmet fit. You can adjust the helmet so that it stays snuggly, providing them with the protection they need to ride safely.

Step 1: Measure your child’s head

Don’t buy a helmet without trying it on for size. Using a tape measure, measure your child's head about an inch above their eyebrows.

This measurement will determine the size of the helmet your little one needs. Compare it to the head circumstance range sticker found inside the helmet you’re eyeing for. If you’re buying online, the manufacturer should have their kids helmet sizes range listed.

Step 2: Choose the right size helmet

Using the measurement from step one, choose a helmet that fits within the range of sizes. The helmet should fit snugly on your child’s head. Make sure there are no gaps or spaces between the helmet and the head. To check this, head to the next step.

Step 3: Adjust the straps for a snug fit

Once you have the right size helmet, it’s time to adjust the straps. The helmet should sit level on your child’s head, with the front edge just above their eyebrows. The straps should form a V-shape under each ear, with the chin strap snugly fastened.

The strap on the chin should be loose enough under the chin. This will allow your child to buckle it. Top tip: Tight it enough that you can fit just one finger between the chin and strap.

For a shake test, have your child shake their head back and forth without the helmet buckled. It should, overall, stay firmly in place - if it does, the helmet is tightened correctly.

Step 4: Position the helmet

Ideally, the helmet shouldn’t be too low or tilted forward. Otherwise, this can obstruct your child’s view while riding. Too high or tilted back is also not ideal as this won’t protect their face or forehead enough.

To position the helmet right, place it squarely on top of your child’s head. It should sit about two finger widths above their eyebrows. Lastly, it should stick out past the tip of your child’s nose when viewed from the side. Do this test by having them tap their helmet against a wall.

Step 5: Do the final check test

To make sure your child’s Skylark Bike Helmet Blossom Pink fit well, answer the following: 

• Does the helmet fit right? Ask your child to open their mouth really wide. The helmet should pull down on the head. If not, then refer to step 3 and re-adjust the chin strap.
• Is the helmet in the right position on your child’s forehead? Ask them to look up, and they should be able to see the helmet’s front visor. If not, unbuckle and tighten the side straps, retighten the chin strap and test again.
• Does the helmet lean forward into their eyes? If yes, remove the helmet, re-adjust the side straps and chin strap and test again.
• Does the helmet slip and move while your child shakes their head? If yes, you may need to apply sizing pads to achieve a snug fit. Or do it the natural way by readjusting the universal fit ring if the helmet has one.
• Are the rubber bands close to the buckle? All straps must go through the rubber band. They should be close to the buckle to prevent the buckle from possibly slipping.

Following these steps will ensure your child’s bike helmet fits correctly. Most importantly, you can ensure it provides the right protection in case of an accident. Also, remember to replace the helmet if it becomes damaged or after a significant impact.

Kids Bike Helmets from Bobbin

As a parent, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your child is safe while riding their bike. However, simply wearing a helmet is not enough – it must fit right to provide enough protection. Always make sure they have a helmet that fits properly for an added layer of safety.

A kid cycling helmet from Bobbin is the cherry on the cake for their bike ride adventure. We want to give parents peace of mind and keep kids safe in style! We also have toddler helmets and adult helmets available.

Next on your reading list:  Do Adults Need to Wear Bike Helmets?