A helmet is a must for cycling safety, but with dozens of choices on the market, how do you choose the right one? Which design is best? If you find selecting a helmet confusing then don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Find a Helmet to Match Your Riding
Everyone cycles for different reasons so helmets are meant to work for every scenario. For example, if you tend to ride the streets and move quickly, you’ll want a helmet designed for that purpose. Road bike helmets are aerodynamic in design and feature ventilation, while recreational helmets tend to be lower cost, a little less aerodynamic and provide basic impact security. Do you prefer trail riding and mountain biking? Then you’ll want a helmet designed for this type of riding. They include extra protection to the back of the head, since many mountain bikers fall backwards while riding up the mountain and need that extra protection.
Choose the Right Size
When buying a helmet, you need to be sure it fits your head just right. If it doesn’t fit well, you won’t have the necessary protection if you should fall. It will also be far less comfortable to cycle with an ill-fitting helmet. To ensure you have the correct size, you’ll need to measure your head. Use a flexible measuring tape around your head, just an inch above your eyebrows. This will give you the best measurement which you can then use to order a helmet.
Adjust Correctly
Once you receive your helmet, you will need to adjust it until it fits just so. Start by tightening or loosening it, using the foam pads provided or the adjustment wheel. Each helmet is different, so use the provided system to give you a snug fit.
The next step is to buckle the chin strap. You can then adjust the chinstrap and ensure that it is properly set. The straps below your ears should form a perfect V that is comfortable to wear. The best way to determine if your helmet is fastened securely enough is to make sure that you can fit two fingers between your chin or neck and the strap. You can also ask for help in fitting your helmet when you purchase it. The shop you buy from should be well-versed in how to check the fit and will be able to show you exactly how to make it work for you.
When you’re happy with the chosen helmet, it’s time to enjoy riding your bicycle without the worry of head safety!
VeloRunner stocks helmets for all scenarios. To find out more about our range of helmets, or any of our other products including running shoes and cycling clothes, then all you need to do is get in touch!