How to size a Ski or Snowboard helmet

Shredding the hillside is fun! There is no greater feeling than pushing your skis or snowboard to the limit, but it's a dangerous game. Proper helmet sizing is a critical detail to help ensure your safety. This is a primer on selecting the proper brain bucket to get you, (or your little shredder) off the mountain with a smile on your face, rather than a ride in the medic's sledge.

If you choose to buy a helmet from private seller or a deep discount store, keep in mind you get what you pay for. Ask yourself what your head is worth.

Like most helmets, ski and snowboard helmets are not made to take repeated hard hits. So if you see ANY big scratches or obvious damage don't buy, rent, or use it!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A metric tape measure
• Some good old fashioned common sense
• A reputable dealer

1. There is nothing difficult about helmet sizing.
   But the first thing you should do find is a good ski shop.

2. Realize the limitations of a snow sports helmet.
   
   Most commonly found winter helmets, like bike helmets, are rated for an impact of 12-14 mph. The average speed of a skier (according to a Sugarbush VT study) is 27 mph. Also the foam used is not the best for combating concussions.
   Moral of the story?? Don't get lulled into a false sense of security and:
   
   ALWAYS SKI OR SNOWBOARD WITHIN YOUR LIMITS!

3. Measure your head.
   
   Measure your head, in centimeters, just above your eyebrows. This is your helmet size. (No metric tape? (cm = inches * 2.54))

4. Put helmet on.
   
   Not always as easy as you think. Helmets can be tight going over your ears. Rather than pulling it straight down on your head, try putting the front of the helmet just above your eyebrows and "rolling" the helmet onto your head.

5. Tighten the strap.
   
   Get the strap nice and snug. Helmet should feel comfortable.

6. Check the fit.
   
   Make sure that:
   1. The helmet does not contact the back of your neck.
   2. All your face and forehead contact the pads.
   3. Put a pair of goggles on and make sure you have good visibility.
   4. Gently rock the helmet front to back. If your forehead skin is
   rocking with it, that's good. If the helmet is gliding over the
   skin, that's bad. If it feels like you can pull the back edge over
   your head and remove it, that's a very bad fit.

7. Not all helmets are built to fit all heads. Some are round, some are oval, some are a combination of the two. The hottest brand, coolest color, or best deal, are pointless if the helmet doesn't fit.
   
   These are just guidelines. If you feel the shop you're buying from isn't putting the fit over all other considerations (such as their commission or what isn't selling well) find another store.

8. That should do it..
   
   HAVE FUN!!