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How to Choose The Right Helmet

Member
By L1onherd
User-Submitted Article
(8 Ratings)
Choose The Right Helmet
Choose The Right Helmet

There are about 85 million bicycle riders in the US alone. About 67,000 of those 85 million will sustain head injuries within the year. Unfortunately, two thirds will result in death from brain injury. Just think, these numbers could have been reduced if only a $20 helmet was purchased. Consider wearing a helmet not only for you but for your children, mothers, brothers, sisters and loved ones alike. Not only is important to wear a helmet but it’s equally important to wear a properly fitted helmet. Before you buy your helmet, there are a few things you need to know.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Bike Helmet
  1. Step 1

    Are you a cyclist or do you like to do a lot of mountain biking? If you are a cyclist it's best to choose a time trail helmet. Time trail helmets are designed to reduce air resistance. This helmet is longer and thinner compared to other helmets. If you mountain bike consider choosing a mountain bike helmet which is designed to be a little heavier, and keeps the helmet on your head better when bouncing and jumping.

  2. Step 2

    Make sure the helmet is approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) by looking at the tag or original box.

  3. Step 3

    Try on your helmet. It’s very important that you try on your helmet before purchasing it. Your helmet should fit snug but not to tight. Use the sizing pads to secure a good fit to your head.

  4. Step 4

    Make sure the helmet covers your forehead, crown, and back of the head. The front of the helmet should begin halfway down your forehead. The back should come to the end of your skull.

  5. Step 5

    Make sure the strap is under the chin. No more then one or two fingers should fit under the strap. On many helmets the strap can be adjusted by pulling the strap from the back of the helmet.

  6. Step 6

    Shake your head around to insure the helmet is not loose. If your helmet switches positions, it’s too loose. If the helmet moves when the straps are tight, try on a smaller helmet.

Tips & Warnings
  • A helmet can be purchased from any department store, sporting goods store, or local discount store.
  • If you are worried about people being able to see you, you may want to choose a bright colored helmet
  • Replace your helmet after it is involved in a crash
  • Replace helmets that have been outgrown
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