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Proper Helmet Fitting
Proper Helmet Fitting
Proper Helmet Fitting
- Use a tape measure, and measure from mid-forehead to around the back of the head, to determine the circumference of your child’s head. All helmet manufacturers provide a range of inches or centimeters that a particular helmet will fit.
- A child’s helmet should fit now. Do not buy a larger helmet with the idea that your child will “grow into it”.
- The helmet should be level on the child’s head, and not tilted backwards or exposing their forehead.
- The chin strap should be comfortably snug. Look for a chin strap that is “no-pinch”, so the child does not fear putting on the helmet in case they were accidently pinched.
- With the chin strap fastened, an adult or child should not be able to remove the helmet by pulling or tugging on it.
- The helmet fitting pads should touch all the way around the child’s head. Extra pads, included with new helmets, can be added to ensure a proper fit. Use thicker pads on the sides for narrow heads, or thicker pads in the back for shorter heads.
- The helmet should not bump or ride on top of the child’s eyeglasses or sunglasses. A properly fitted helmet should have the front level, just above the eyebrows, or just above the frame of glasses.
- Helmets should be replaced after a significant crash or drop onto a hard surface, like a garage floor, since this compromises the safety of the helmet. Do not store a helmet in a hot car or other area since the heat and UV sunlight causes the Styrofoam material to break down. Most helmet manufacturers recommend a helmet replacement every 5 years, although your child will likely outgrow their helmet long before then.
- Periodically check the fit and comfort of your child’s helmet. Children’s heads grow quickly, and their helmet may need to be replaced with a larger size.
- Children should be taught to always remove their helmet when not bicycling. A strangulation hazard exists if your child is climbing trees or using playground equipment while wearing a helmet.
- Wearing a helmet takes some getting used to. When my son first started wearing his helmet at 20 months, he would yank and pull on it. Now he gladly wears his helmet all the time because he associates it with fun-riding his Strider!
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