A guide to helmets
For a cyclist, having the right helmet is essential. But finding the right headgear can be harder than you might think, especially because there are so many different styles and options available. Luckily for you, we know a thing or two about helmets and this guide should help you make sense of the vast selection on offer.
Helmets have come a long way. Thankfully, the days of uncomfortable, poorly-ventilated and heavy helmets are mostly over; for a modest sum, you can buy a well-fitting, light and attractive helmet. Helmets are available in every conceivable style and for every niche of cycling. However, there are a few things to consider before buying.
Helmet Fit
Impact-absorption technologies
Start researching helmets and you’ll quickly come across MIPS: Multi-directional Impact Protection System – a system designed to reduce rotational forces on the brain from impacts with angled objects. Models with MIPS have a layer between head and helmet that’s designed to stop the head rotating as much inside the helmet. Many very popular brands use MIPS, and helmets equipped with the technology are slightly more expensive.
MIPS isn’t the only technology that’s designed to lessen rotational forces on the head: POC has its “SPIN” technology, Bontrager has “WaveCel”, a system designed to soak up impact before it reaches the head, and Endura offers a similar system called “Koroyd.”
Types of helmets
From slick models for road cyclists to skate-style helmets for BMXers, there’s something available for every discipline of riding. For the sake of classification, we generally divide helmets into three main categories: road, mountain bike and urban/commuter.
Urban/Commuter
Urban/commuter helmets usually have a plain, utilitarian design, allowing them to easily blend in with the urban jungle. The modern trend is for a rounded, ‘bucket-style’ helmet. Many incorporate size-adjustment systems, generous ventilation holes and even built-in ear protection. Some even have lighting at the back to make you more visible to other road users.
Of course, there’s no rule that you have to wear a commuting-specific helmet while riding through town – many cyclists are perfectly happy with a mountain bike or road helmet.
Here you can find city helmets:
https://www.bikester.co.uk/clothing/cycling-helmets/trekking-city-helmets.html
Road Cycling
For road riding, top priorities are aerodynamics, weight, and ventilation – quite possibly in that order. A more expensive helmet will be lighter, should offer improved aerodynamics and be well ventilated. Pricier helmets also tend to look more flash – and let’s be honest, in the competitive world of road cycling, looks matter!
Here you can find road bike helmets::
https://www.bikester.co.uk/clothing/cycling-helmets/road-bike-helmets.html
Mountain Biking
There are several different types of mountain biking helmets:
For aggressive downhill riding, many riders opt for a full-face helmet that offers maximum protection in the event of a fall. For enduro or rougher trail use, robust ‘open-face’ helmets with increased rear head protection and the option to attach a chin guard are popular.
For cross-country mountain biking, helmets look more like road helmets, but usually have a removeable peak and slightly enhanced protection at the back of the head. They should be light and well ventilated.
For BMX and dirt jump, helmets are plainer ‘bucket’ style helmets. Nowadays, many of these also come with internal size adjustment systems. Ventilation isn’t so good with these helmets, but they reflect the gritty street style of these disciplines.
Here you can find mountain bike helmets:
https://www.bikester.co.uk/clothing/cycling-helmets/mtb-helmets.html
Helmet Alternatives
You may have asked yourself what that chunky black collar is you’ve seen people wear while cycling. That would be the Hövding airbag helmet, worn around the neck, that inflates in the event of a fall. Great if you have a cool hairdo and don’t want something on your head while cycling, but pricy and not for everyone.
Many people don’t wear a helmet at all. In many countries, particularly those with advanced cycling infrastructure and a strong bike culture, you’re more likely to see commuters not wearing a helmet: read Germany, Denmark and The Netherlands. On the other hand, certain nations have made helmet use compulsory.
Two things are certain: we can all benefit by practising safer cycling and being more vigilant around motorists, and if you fall directly on your head, you’ll be glad you’re wearing a helmet.