by Andrew Wong

Created on: July 13, 2009   Last Updated: July 14, 2009

If you are looking at buying a new cycling helmet, there are a few things which you should really know before making a purchase. If you are looking at buying a helmet, you obviously already know how essential this bit of safety equipment is. I speak from experience when I say that a helmet can save your life or save you from an extremely serious injury.

Having spent years now riding and racing bikes, and having assisted numerous customers with bicycle helmet purchases, it has become evident to me that a lot of people disregard the fit of the helmet, preferring to choose a certain color or price point. These helmet guidelines and features are all you need to be aware of when choosing the correct helmet:

Fit- this is your number one priority. Don't look at the price tags when shopping for a helmet! Place the helmet on your head, with the straps undone. Grasping the helmet, rock it from right to left horizontally. It will move a bit, but you shouldn't feel too much space between the shell of the helmet and your head. Next, push your index fingers up the sides of the helmet in front of your ears while the straps are done up. Can you push them right up? If you can, try a smaller size. The bottom edge of the helmet should be about an inch above your ears and the helmet should sit square on your head, covering the top half of your forehead.

The fitting system- this is the dial or ratchet at the back of most modern helmets which helps you to fit the helmet more snuggly. Keep it loose while centering the helmet on you head, then snug it up until it is firm but comfortable.

The straps- the chin strap should be tightened firm. The buckles on the side straps should be pulled up to just under your ears, and the side straps themselves should be close to either side of your ear.

In Molding- always buy a helmet with an in-molded shell. If the plastic shell is glued onto the styrene and can be pried off, choose another helmet. An in-molded plastic shell is molded onto the styrene so that the shell and the styrene are bonded firmly together. The shell doesn't just protect the helmet; it helps to hold it together in the event of a crash. While the styrene is designed to explode or crush, the plastic shell reinforcing it will hold it together in case of a secondary impact.

Strap anchors- look at where the straps are anchored on the helmet. If they are external, the anchors can be ripped out in a crash and this will pull the helmet off your head. Internal anchors are better but rare.

Snag point- modern aerodynamic helmets tend to have a teardrop shape, tapering at the back. This creates a snag point, and can pull the helmet off your head in a rolling crash. Look for a smooth rounded profile for optimum safety.

These are the main things to look out for, along with the relevant safety standards for your country. Aerodynamics and weight are issues for racers, and even then, you won't feel the difference of 50 grams. Cooling is important, but hard to test; generally the more expensive the helmet, the more extensive the internal skeleton, so more external material can be removed without compromising strength.

With this knowledge you should be able to find the best and safest helmet to suit your needs. And it is your head you are investing in, so take your time and choose wisely!

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