Bike Helmets: A Rant

So, you think you look like a tool?

Well, maybe you do.

But, the potential damage could certainly look worse.

The lack of individuals wearing bike helmets is appalling. Although the majority of cyclists are sportin' the dome - there are still many who refuse to wear cranial protection for whatever reason. I have recently noticed that many of these are kids. I understand that people are able to make their own choices - but this blatant refusal to look facts in the face is ridiculous.


I'm even more amazed by the number of children and adults I see wearing helmets improperly. If you're going to wear a helmet: wear it properly. Having the helmet pushed up past your forehead is NOT going to protect your melon if you crash face first. Wikipedia offers a basic explanation as to how your lid should fit:


"The helmet should sit level on the cyclists head with only a couple of finger-widths between eyebrow and the helmet brim. The strap should sit at the back of the lower jaw, against the throat, and be sufficiently tight that the helmet does not move on the head. It should not be possible to insert more than one finger's thickness between the strap and the throat." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicycle_helmet)


For the best results - go to a bike shop and get an attendant to help you find a helmet that will best fit your head. Have them help you fit it in the store before you leave. You may have to try on a few styles, as they all fit a little differently. There really are helmets for all shapes of noggins - you just have to look. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute has a list of just about every make and model including fits, fashion, and just about everything you've ever wanted to know about helmets.


Helmets vary dramatically in price - anywhere from around 20 bucks to $200. Unless you're planning on cruisin' the Tour de France - a mid-range helmet is probably best. I think I paid between 50 to 70 dollars for mine and I love it. It's comfy and pretty stylin' too. By paying the few extra pesos- you'll find a helmet with a proper fit, more ventilation, and that is lightweight (which is important if you're going to be wearing it for extended periods of time). Note that more ventilation = less foam = less protection. At the same time, you don't want to swim in your lid, either.

Note that if you damage your helmet or if it has been over five years since you bought it: Replace It!! Helmets are only designed for one good bang (just like some other plastic products) and the materials they are made of begin to deteriorate after five years.


Remember - you only have one brain. So, do yourself a service and protect that little bundle of neurons.

Here are a couple of sites with good information on helmets:
Bike Helmet Safety: http://www.healthunit.org/injury/summer/bikehel.htm
Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute: http://www.bhsi.org/ It's actually worth taking a look at.

Happy Cycling!