Bike Helmet Buying Guide

With the exhilaration of pedalling comes the responsibility of ensuring your safety. Enter the unsung hero of your cycling journey: the bike helmet. It’s not just an accessory; it’s your shield against unforeseen mishaps.

In this buying guide, we’ll dive into the world of helmets. Join us as we explore their vital role, types, sizes, safety standards, features, and more. Get ready to make an informed choice, safeguard your noggin, and enjoy your rides with peace of mind.

Why a Helmet Matters

A helmet serves as your first line of defence against head injuries while cycling. In the unfortunate event of a fall or collision, it absorbs and disperses the impact energy. This reduces the force transferred to your skull and brain.

However, not all helmets are created equal. Choosing the right helmet tailored to your individual needs is paramount. Childrens bike helmets are dedicated to young riders; bigger bike helmets for adults. Besides the fitting, several factors should all be considered, including:

• riding style
• head shape
• safety standard

Remember, the right helmet ensures optimal protection, comfort, and an enjoyable biking experience.

Different Types Available

Cycling headgear comes in a variety of types. Each is designed to cater to specific riding styles and environments. The common ones are as follows:

Road helmets

Helmets for road biking boast a sleek and lightweight design. They’re ideal for cyclists who enjoy speed and endurance riding on smooth, paved roads. What’s more, they offer excellent ventilation and aerodynamics.

Mountain bike helmet

These helmets are designed for off-road adventures. They offer extended coverage to protect against impacts from uneven terrain and obstacles. They often have visors to shield them from branches and the sun.

Commuter helmets

Best paired with commuter bikes, these protective head shields prioritise practicality and visibility. They come with built-in lights to match your bicycle rear light for added protection. They offer good coverage and ventilation for everyday urban cycling.

BMX/dirt jump helmets

These helmets are rugged and sturdy, with extra padding for extreme stunts and tricks. They prioritise impact protection.

Full-face helmets

The unique design of this helmet is mainly used in downhill or extreme mountain biking. As the name suggests, it provides full head and face coverage. It offers maximum protection for high-speed descents and technical trails.

Sizing and Fit

A proper fit is paramount when it comes to bike helmets. Ill-fitting ones compromise safety and comfort.

To find the right size, measure your head’s circumference just above your eyebrows. Use a flexible tape measure for this approach. Match this measurement to the helmet sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. These kids helmet sizes and how to measure for cycle helmet guides from Bobbin are worth a read.

The significance of adjustable straps and retention systems

Adjustable straps and retention systems are equally crucial. They ensure a snug, secure fit, preventing the helmet from shifting or coming off during a crash. Properly adjusted straps should form a Y-shape under your ears, with no slack. The retention system, often a dial at the back of the helmet, fine-tunes the fit, customising it to your head shape. A well-fitted helmet maximises protection and minimises discomfort.

The Skylark Bike Helmet Blueberry sets a prime model. It is built with top-quality features to offer excellent ventilation and adequate protection. The precision fitment with a dial fit sizing system is a bonus. Even better, it’s safety certified - EN1078 and CPSC tested — no one can stop you on your awesome adventures!

Safety Standards

When selecting a bike helmet, it’s imperative to consider safety standards such as:

• CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission)
• ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)

These standards ensure that helmets undergo rigorous testing for impact protection and quality.

Additionally, look for helmets featuring MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology. MIPS reduces rotational forces on the brain during an angled impact, enhancing safety.

Choosing a helmet that meets these standards offers peace of mind. They ensure your head protector has undergone stringent testing to provide optimal protection.

Bike Helmet Features

Helmets often come with extra features that can greatly enhance comfort and performance. Ventilation systems, for one, help dissipate heat and moisture. The strategically placed vents and channels prevent overheating during long rides.

Visors shield your eyes from sun, rain, and trail debris. Also known as peaks, they help improve visibility and safety. If you haven’t seen this unique design yet, check out this blue bike helmet for reference.

Additionally, removable liners offer the flexibility to adapt to different weather conditions. They wick away sweat in summer or provide extra warmth in winter.

These features collectively contribute to a more enjoyable and effective cycling experience. They ensure you stay cool, dry, and focused on the road ahead.

Where to Buy?

You can find bike helmets at various places. This includes local bike shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers like Bobbin.

It’s highly advisable to try helmets in-store before making an online purchase. In-store trials allow you to assess the fit, comfort, and style first-hand. This hands-on approach ensures you make an informed decision. It guarantees both safety and satisfaction when you eventually make your online purchase. And if visiting stores isn’t possible, always consult the sizing guide offered by online shops.

Explore our helmet collection with options in different sizes, designs, and colours. We even have helmets for toddlers on offer! Make sure to share your colour preference in the comments: blue bike helmet or pink bike helmet?

What’s next on your reading list: Why Do Toddlers Need Bike Helmets?