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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ส.ค. 2024
- If a helmet doesn’t fit you properly, it will be uncomfortable and if the strap is loose it’ll be ineffective - basically a complete waste of money and effort.
NEVER BUY A HELMET YOU HAVEN’T HAD ON YOUR HEAD!
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More information available from mccofnsw.org.au...
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And make sure it’s new. It’s impossible to know what internal damage a second hand helmet already has.
The internet will offer many fake helmets. You could easily end up with a ripoff that doesn’t fit. Buying in-person means you will be able to choose a helmet that fits your head properly and gives you full consumer law protection for certification and guarantees. So shop local!
OK Helmet sizes run from XXS to XXL, based on these head measurements.
The measurement is done along this line, similar to the edge level of a baseball cap
Once you know your circumference, you need to work out your head shape because we’re all different. There’s 3 general head shapes that helmets are categorised by - Intermediate, oval and round, so let’s work out which one you’re closest to.
Get a mate to take a photo of the top of your head.
Tim’s head is mostly circular. His ears are as wide apart as his head is long, so he’s got a round shaped head.
Brett’s head is much longer from the forehead to the crown than it is wide, so he’s an oval shape.
Mick’s head is somewhere in between. It’s actually slightly longer than it is wide, with ears closer in, which is an intermediate head shape.
Once you’re aware of your headshape, then start trying on as many matching helmets as you can. Every head is unique and you’ll find some brands and models that simply won’t work with you.
You’re looking for a snug fit in the entire baseball cap region with no clearly pressured or painful areas. There should be no "hot spots" or specific points in the baseball cap area where you feel pressure or pinching. This includes the forehead, back of the head and temples. If after wearing the helmet for a few minutes, a distinct area on your head is feeling sore, either the helmet is the wrong SIZE or SHAPE for you.
You can’t fit a square peg in a round hole!
Make sure the helmet cannot move forwards or backwards when you’re wearing it. If it does, then you need a smaller size.
In a new helmet, the sides of your face should be tightly compressed, particularly around your cheeks. The pressure may feel awkward or slightly uncomfortable, but should not be painful. You should not be able to chew gum, and you may not be able to speak clearly. That’s ok! The discomfort will recede as the helmet breaks-in and acquires the exact shape of your head.
Fit is everything, graphics come second.
Make sure you tell the assistant in the shop exactly what kind of riding you intend to do to get the best advice for your needs, such as ventilation.
The lighter the helmet, the less strain on your neck. Euro helmets are usually lighter than Aus Std helmets.
A really important test for a helmet is whether it can be “rolled” forward off your head with a little bit of force. It’s even done as part of helmet certification. This is a significant fit issue. A loose strap makes it easy roll off. In around 11% of crashes, helmets do come off.
No matter WHAT style of helmet you choose, the problem of fit stays with you. Style over safety can be an issue. But, we’re all adults here and it’s up to you to choose the compromise. Next episode we’re looking at what a helmet can do for you.
