Retailers often encounter customers seeking guidance on riding helmet selection and fit. Providing clear, accurate advice on safety standards and achieving a secure fit is fundamental for ensuring rider protection and building customer trust.
The Importance of a Correct Helmet Fit
A riding helmet’s primary purpose is to protect the rider’s head during a fall or impact. However, even the most robust helmet cannot perform effectively if it does not fit correctly. A poorly fitting helmet can shift during an impact, leaving parts of the head exposed or exacerbating injury due to internal movement. It can also be uncomfortable, distracting the rider and potentially affecting their balance and focus. An ill-fitting helmet might also lead to pressure points, headaches, or simply feel unstable, discouraging consistent wear. You need to ensure the helmet sits level, securely, and without excessive movement, allowing it to absorb and distribute impact forces as designed.
Understanding Riding Helmet Safety Standards
Navigating the various safety standards for riding helmets can be confusing for both retailers and customers. In the UK, several standards are recognised, each indicating that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing to meet specific safety criteria.
Historically, the EN1384 standard was widely used. However, it was withdrawn in 2014. Helmets manufactured to EN1384 before its withdrawal may still be legally sold and worn, but new helmets are generally manufactured to updated standards.
The most common and robust standard you will encounter in the UK is PAS 015:2011. This British Kitemark standard is highly regarded and is often a requirement for competitive riding in the UK. A helmet marked with PAS 015:2011 (along with the Kitemark logo) provides a high level of assurance regarding its protective qualities.
Another frequently seen European standard is VG1 01.040 2014-12. This standard was developed as an interim measure following the withdrawal of EN1384 and offers comparable levels of protection to PAS 015. Helmets meeting VG1 are widely accepted across Europe.
You may also come across the American standard, ASTM F1163. While originating in the USA, helmets certified to this standard are also sold and worn in the UK and are accepted by many governing bodies.
It’s crucial to remember that a helmet must meet at least one current recognised safety standard to be considered suitable for riding. Always check the helmet’s label or packaging for the relevant certification marks. For a wider range of protective gear suitable for various activities, including riding, you can explore our comprehensive Riding category.
Key Principles of Helmet Fitting
Achieving a correct fit involves more than just selecting the right size; it’s about how the helmet interacts with the individual head shape. The goal is a snug, stable fit that remains comfortable without causing pressure points.
Measuring for Size
Start by measuring the customer’s head circumference. Use a flexible tape measure, placing it approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the eyebrows and just above the ears, ensuring it’s level all the way around the head. This measurement in centimetres will correspond to the helmet’s stated size. It’s important to note that sizing can vary slightly between manufacturers, so always refer to the specific brand’s sizing chart if available.
Different Head Shapes
Heads are not all perfectly round. Some individuals have a more oval head shape, while others are rounder. Many modern helmets cater to these variations, often described as ’round fit’ or ‘oval fit’.
- Oval Heads: These heads are typically longer from front to back and narrower from side to side. An oval-fit helmet will feel comfortable without excessive pressure on the forehead or back of the head, and without feeling too wide at the temples.
- Round Heads: These heads are more symmetrical in width and length. A round-fit helmet will provide even pressure around the circumference without feeling tight on the sides or loose at the front and back.
Encourage customers to try on several helmets, even if they are the same measured size, to find one that best matches their head shape. Many helmets now feature adjustable dial systems at the back, or removable internal padding, which can help fine-tune the fit for a more personalised and secure feel.
Practical Steps for Achieving a Secure Fit
Once you have identified a helmet that aligns with the customer’s measured size and head shape, follow these practical steps to ensure a truly secure and effective fit:
- Positioning: The helmet should sit level on the head, covering the forehead without obstructing vision. The front rim should be approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the eyebrows. It should not tilt back, exposing the forehead, or tip forward, obscuring vision.
- Side-to-Side Movement: With the chin strap unfastened, ask the customer to shake their head gently from side to side. The helmet should remain largely stationary, moving the skin on the forehead with it. If it slides excessively, it’s too large or not the correct shape.
- Front-to-Back Movement: Ask the customer to tilt their head forwards and backwards. Again, the helmet should stay put. If it slides too far back, exposing the forehead, or too far forward, obstructing vision, the fit is incorrect.
- Chin Strap Adjustment: Fasten the chin strap. The ‘V’ shape of the strap should sit comfortably just below the ears. The strap should be snug enough that you can only fit one finger between the strap and the chin. It should not be so tight that it causes discomfort or restricts breathing, but tight enough to prevent the helmet from being easily pulled off.
- Retention Test: With the chin strap fastened and properly adjusted, ask the customer to open their mouth wide. The helmet should pull down slightly on the top of the head. This indicates a good, secure fit.
- Pressure Points and Comfort: The helmet should feel snug all over, with even pressure around the head, but without any specific pressure points that could cause discomfort or headaches over time. Allow the customer to wear the helmet for a few minutes to assess overall comfort.
Remember that a helmet that feels snug initially is preferable to one that feels loose, as internal padding may compress slightly with wear. For other essential gear that complements rider safety and comfort, consider exploring our wider range of performance clothing.
When to Replace a Helmet
A riding helmet is designed to protect in a single significant impact. Its protective capabilities can be compromised even if there’s no visible damage.
- After an Impact: Any helmet involved in a fall or impact, even if it appears undamaged, should be replaced immediately. The internal structure, often made of expanded polystyrene (EPS), compresses to absorb energy. This compression is permanent, and a compromised helmet will not offer the same level of protection in a subsequent incident.
- Ageing Materials: Over time, the materials used in helmets can degrade due to exposure to UV light, sweat, and general wear. While there’s no universal expiry date, many manufacturers suggest replacing helmets every three to five years, regardless of whether they have been involved in an impact. This is a general guideline to ensure the integrity of the materials.
- Visible Damage: Inspect helmets regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the shell, frayed straps, or significant deterioration of the internal padding. If you observe any such damage, the helmet should be replaced.
Educating your customers on these replacement guidelines is crucial for their ongoing safety.
The most useful takeaway for both you and your customers is this: a riding helmet that meets current safety standards and is correctly fitted is the single most important piece of safety equipment a rider can own. Prioritise these two aspects above all else.
