All About Bicycle Helmets

Each year, thousands of people are injured in bicycle accidents. Head injuries are by far the most common type of injury, particularly when a bicycle and a car collide. Too many cyclists avoid helmets thinking that they aren't really needed. Some cyclists argue that their reaction times are so fast that they can avoid hitting their heads, while others complain about how uncomfortable and hot they are.

Fact remains, there is no other piece of cycling gear is as important as a helmet, yet some riders refuse to wear them and others wear them incorrectly. Medical research estimates that nearly 85% of head related injuries can be minimized or avoided with one simple adjustment: every rider should wear a properly-fitted bicycle helmet.

How a Helmet Works

The functioning of a helmet is extremely simple: A layer of foam surrounding the head spreads out the shock of any impact while also keeping the head from contacting objects that could cause trauma. The thin plastic layer on the outside of the helmet prevents scratches or damage to the foam layer and allows branches or other objects to bounce off the lid.

What are the different types of helmets?

There are three basic styles of bicycle helmets available:

• Sport Helmet: A sport helmet is suitable for all around use. It is designed to be as light and as well ventilated as possible.
• BMX helmet: A BMX helmet, on the other hand, is stronger and built to provide more coverage to the head, sometimes even including full face protection.
• Mountain bike helmet: A mountain bike helmet offers the maximum amount of protection, as it will be used on the roughest and most dangerous off-road terrain.

How to buy the right helmet?

For tips on finding the right bike helmet for you, follow these guidelines:

• Make sure it is certified: You should only buy a helmet that meets the bicycle helmet safety standards of a reputed certification authority. Any helmet meeting these standards is labeled. Check the inside for certification stickers or holograms.
• Make sure it fits and is comfortable: A helmet should be worn squarely on top of the head, covering the top of the forehead. If it is tipped back, it will not protect the forehead. The helmet fits well if it doesn't move around on the head or slide down over the wearer's eyes when pushed or pulled. The chin strap should be adjusted to fit snugly.
• Visibility: You should be able to see well while wearing your helmet. It should not block your vision.
• Prefer helmets with Visors: Good visors can shield against glare or deflect airflow from your eyes. Make sure that the visors are designed to break off in a crash. Again, make sure the visor doesn't impair your vision.
• Vents: Look for a good combination of front vents (which help in cooling) and rear vents (which allow an exit for flow of that ventilation). V-shaped vents are most effective. More vents mean more cooling. The downside to a lot of vents is that there is less of helmet to protect you, and sometimes there's also increased wind noise.
• Straps and retention system: Check for easy adjustment and secure hold. A helmet that can be easily adjusted while riding will be more comfortable and convenient for an avid cyclist. If you have long hair, you will want to make sure the retention system is ponytail-compatible and won't get tangled in your hair.

How to wear a Helmet properly?

• Place the helmet evenly on the head.  Make certain the front of the helmet sits only one to two finger-widths above the eyebrows (about 2.5 cm or 1 inch).
• Make sure the helmet doesn't tilt forward or back, but rests straight on the head.
• The helmet should fit snugly.  Switch the foam fittings inside the helmet as needed to get the right fit.
• Tighten the chinstrap as snug as possible, adjusting the side straps that connect the front and back so that they rest just below the ears.
• The helmet should not move more than 2.5 cm (1 inch) in any direction.
• The helmet should not be able to shake loose or move from side to side.

How to Maintain a Helmet?

• Wash in warm water with a mild soap.
• Only use paint and stickers that come with the helmet when it is purchased (other paint and glue might damage the helmet).
• Keep your helmet away from heat as a helmet may become unglued and will therefore not give you effective protection against injury.
• Check the screws and straps to make sure that they are tight and working properly.

When to Replace a Helmet?

Replace any helmet if you crash. Impact crushes some of the foam, although the damage may not be visible. Helmets work so well that you need to examine them for marks or dents to know if you hit. Most manufacturers recommend replacement after five years but that depends on usage, and most helmets given reasonable care are good for longer than that.

Wear the helmet at all times when cycling. It's the law in many places, and its common sense everywhere. Protect your brain. Wear a helmet when cycling. Ride safe!