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How to Fit a Bike Helmet

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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A bike helmet should be considered a mandatory piece of safety equipment whenever you ride. A helmet that is not properly fitted to your head will offer little or no protection from a head injury. Take the time to find the right bike helmet for your head, and learn how to put it on correctly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Find the right bike helmet to fit your head by stressing snugness and stability, even when you shift or turn your head suddenly. The inside padding of the helmet should come into contact with as much of your head as possible, with no excessive airspace anywhere. The helmet should also be as low as possible to minimize wind resistance.

  2. Step 2

    Choose a bike helmet that has an additional set of foam pads, so that you can customize the fit to your head. Some helmets feature extra sets of pads, with varying thickness, so that you can arrange the pads to maximize contact with your head. Arrange the pads in a way that allows some even airspace in between, which will also help with wind resistance.

  3. Step 3

    Try a bike helmet that has a large-fitting ring made of straps on its inside. By tightening and loosening the straps, you can customize the fit to your head. Be aware that it may take more work to keep this type of helmet level on your head, so tilt and twist your head during the fitting to ensure that the helmet remains snug and in the right position.

  4. Step 4

    Adjust the chinstraps to ensure a comfortable and proper fit. Remember that the front rim of the helmet should be slightly visible when you stare straight ahead, the Y-straps should be below your ear and the chin strap should be tightened to the point at which you can feel the entire helmet pull downward when you open your mouth.

  5. Step 5

    Pick a bike helmet that has locking straps on the side, so that the chin and ear straps will not loosen over time. This is an important safety feature that may cost a little extra but is well worth it.

Tips & Warnings
  • Avoid purchasing a bike helmet that doesn't fit right just because you like the style or color. Not every bike helmet is designed to fit every head, and you may have to choose a less attractive helmet in order to increase your safety while riding.

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