How to Choose the Right Bike Helmet
Don’t wait until you’ve had a crash to buy your first bike helmet. If you don’t already own one, go shopping now and use these simple suggestions to make the right purchase.
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You Will Need
- Retailers
- Diligence
Steps
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Step 1
Find the sticker
Find the sticker that certifies that your helmet meets established safety standards. This will usually be a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) sticker or an American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) sticker.
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Step 2
Choose color
Choose a bright, highly-visible color for your helmet to help drivers see you. This is in addition to, not in lieu of, reflective gear and other safety lights.
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Step 3
Examine vents
Examine the vents on your helmet. Large vents reduce your level of protection, but some venting is necessary to keep your head cool.
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Step 4
Check the fit
Put the helmet on and make sure there are no gaps between the padding and your head. It should sit level and cover your forehead from a couple of inches above your eyebrows.
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Step 5
Fasten the straps
Fasten the straps so that the helmet is snug but not tight. Shake your head around and then try to pull the helmet off; you should not be able to.
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If your helmet gets damaged, worn out, or is involved in a crash, make sure to replace it.
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Step 6
Wear it
Wear your helmet every time you ride, even if you are just going down the block. It can’t protect you if it is not on your head.
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A study performed in New York found that 97 percent of bicyclists who died in accidents were not wearing a helmet.
