What bicycle helmet to buy? The most important thing is that it should be well-fitted and made of durable materials - then the bicycle helmet will fulfill its function, and thus protect the head against breaking. Check what types of bicycle helmets are there and what to look for when buying to choose the best model for you.

A bicycle helmetis an outfit that every cyclist shouldbuy . Despite this, until recently the stereotype that helmets are needed only by children and professional cyclists persisted. Such thinking was greatly influenced by the fact that not everyone wears a helmet.

Fortunately, more and more people are realizing the need to buy a helmet to protect their head while cycling. Regardless of whether we are driving on mountain paths or recreationally in the city - the risk of an accident is always there, and the helmet definitely improves safety. The only condition is that it is properly fitted to the head and made of solid materials.

Currently, in sports stores you can find a wide selection of models that differ in purpose, design, size and appearance. So you do not have to worry that after putting on the helmet, you will look bad - among the rich assortment, everyone should find a model that suits their needs.

Check which bicycle helmet to buy and what features you should pay attention to.

Bicycle helmets - types

Before buying a bicycle helmet, you should consider which type best suits your riding style. There are 4 types of bicycle helmets:

  • MTB helmet- the most popular model, designed for sport riding on mountain bikes (also known as MTB -Mountain Terrain Bike ). Its distinctive feature is the visor attached to the front of the helmet that protects against sun and rain and the presence of ventilation holes.
  • road helmet- similar to an MTB helmet, however, it will not work in more difficult terrain (e.g. mountain). It is designed for road riding. The most important feature that distinguishes it from the MTB model is the lack of a front visor.
  • city helmet- model for driving around the city. It has a less streamlined shape than an MTB helmet. It is equipped with additional elements to increase visibility,e.g. reflections.
  • "nut" helmet- used not only by cyclists, but also by roller skaters and skateboarders. It has a solid construction without ventilation holes, thanks to which it protects the head better than other models of helmets. Designed for freeriding and BMX rides.
  • full face helmet- used by cyclists riding in extreme conditions, e.g. downhill riders (competitive riding in the mountains). It completely covers the face, which makes it similar to motorcycle helmets.

Why is it worth riding a bike?

Bicycle helmets - what should you pay attention to when buying?

When buying, we should pick up each model that interests us, check it carefully and try it on. Particular attention should be paid to the following helmet parameters:

  1. outer material- the harder the material the casing is made of, the more durable the helmet is and the better it protects the head. Most low- and mid-priced helmets have a shell made of plastic, and this is generally sufficient for recreational and sports riding. Riders on rough terrain can afford more expensive helmets with a ceramic coating that makes the helmet lighter and more durable. The simplest test to check the strength of a helmet is to squeeze it firmly with both hands - if the surface bends easily, the quality of the helmet is poor. A good helmet should resist our pressure.
  2. inner material- preferably the inside of the helmet should be made of a soft sponge or foam - this material will prevent abrasions and ensure comfort. Some models are additionally equipped with an antibacterial insert that prevents the formation of unpleasant odors. If you decide to buy a helmet with such an insert, make sure that it is removable - it will allow it to be easily cleaned.
  3. ventilation- it is especially important when driving on warm and hot days. Adequate ventilation ensures constant air exchange, which prevents the scalp from sweating. Ventilation openings should be covered with a mesh to prevent the penetration of insects and vermin. You have to remember that too many holes in the helmet reduce its effectiveness, so it is best to choose models with a maximum of 3-4 ventilation points.
  4. size- most helmets have a special knob or slider on the back to adjust the size. Thanks to this solution, you can easily adjust the helmet to the circumference and shape of the skull. To do this, you need to put it on and press it firmly against your head, and then adjust the size with the knob.
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How to check if the size of the helmet is correct?

A perfectly fitted helmet should fit snugly around your head, but not compress it. Despite the possibility of adjustment, helmets usually have a label with the suggested size. Before visiting the store, it is worth measuring your head circumference - we do it by wrapping the measuring tape around the head just above the ears, but above the eyebrow line. Then we compare the result with the size of the helmet, expressed in centimeters.

At the same time, remember to wear the helmet properly - its front part should be slightly above the eyebrows and not reveal the forehead. A well-chosen model does not move sideways and does not fall off. You can shake your head a few times while trying on to make sure the helmet stays in the same position.

5.adjusting strap- each bicycle helmet has an adjustable strap fastened under the chin. The clasp is usually in the form of a plastic buckle. You need to make sure that the buckle does not press against or chafe the skin, and at the same time helps to hold the helmet in place. The type of fastening is also important - it is important that it can be easily fastened and unfastened.

6.visor- protects against rain and sun rays. It is worth choosing a helmet with a visor if you want to ride in difficult weather conditions.

7.color, reflective elements- helmet manufacturers more and more often offer models for men and women, which in most cases only differ in design and size range. There is also a large range of unisex models with universal colors. If we pay attention to the appearance of the helmet, it is worth choosing one that is equipped with reflective elements to increase visibility.

Important

You need to remember a few rules, compliance with which guarantees full effectiveness of the helmet and safety during its use:

  • theoretically, each helmet approved for sale should have appropriate safety certificates, but it is worth making sure yourself whether the model you choose has them. For this purpose, it is best to look for the markEN1078 , which is a sufficient confirmation that the product meets all safety standards;
  • after the accident, you should buy a new helmet - it is obligatory to do it, because the old helmet, even if it does not show any visible signs of damage, no longer has as good protective functions as the new one;
  • it is better to choose a helmet that costs more than PLN 100 - this is the price limit above which you can be sure that the helmet is made of the best materials and will effectively protect your head in an accident;
  • helmets from reputable manufacturers lose their approvals validity after4-6 years - during this time, as a result of external weather conditions, their protective qualities are weakened. Therefore, after a few years, it is necessary to replace the helmet with a new one.

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