The fact that ski helmets have become really cool probably comes as no surprise. Every winter more and more people join the large group of helmet wearers.
But although we all realise what a simple and cheap insurance a helmet is, it may feel strange and unattractive at the start of wearing one.
- Before you grow used to wearing a helmet it may feel odd skiing around with what seems like a big ball on your head. But you will soon get used to it and instead feel strange skiing without the helmet, says Elin Eklund Edman.
Elin works in Tandådalen’s Skishop in Sälen. This is a place where black helmets are most popular. But if you want to follow the trends this year you should opt for a matt helmet in a bright colour. If you have basic coloured skiwear then a colourful ski helmet and/or goggles with a pattern could be an excellent way of sticking out and updating your outfit.
Helmet without goggles = ugly
- One hint when buying a helmet is to always try it on with a pair of ski goggles, since everyone looks odd in a helmet without goggles, says Elin.
But most important is of course the fit. The helmet shall not be too tight and press on the head –but at the same time not so big that it moves when you turn your head. Many helmets come with extra padding so that you can make it fit your head perfectly. Or you can try on RBK’s helmet that you pump up to the size you want.
Are you supposed to wear a beanie underneath the helmet?
- No, there is no point in that. But if you still insist there are extra thin beanies or balaclavas designed for wear underneath the helmet.
Also make sure to check the helmet’s ventilation. Helmets are not only safe – they also keep you warm; perfect for a cold day in January. But if you are going skiing in the spring sun you may feel a bit overheated. In that case you should choose a helmet with a lot of ventilation. Some helmets have functions that make it possible for you to adjust the ventilation.
Cool jibbers ride with beanies underneath
Remember that a helmet may crack – and then it will cease to protect you. So if you have a fall and hit your head or even lose the helmet on a hard surface you should consider buying a new one. Otherwise the recommendation is to buy a new helmet every three years.
What about the goggles?
- Most important is that you are comfortable wearing them. And always try them on with your helmet to make sure there is no gap between the front edge of the helmet and the top of the goggles.
You should also select a lens with adequate inlet of light in all types of weather. It may not be a good idea to buy the darkest mirrored lens just in order to look cool – you will only be able to make proper use of it during that sunny Easter weekend…
Final question: I have seen several skiers wearing their goggles inside the helmets. Is that the newest trend?
- Well it’s not very practical. It only works if you are a really cool jibber. They often wear beanies underneath as well...
Six recommendations from the Swedish Consumers Agency prior to buying a helmet:
- The helmet shall be CE marked.
- The helmet must fit perfectly so that it cannot fall off or be pushed backwards leaving the forehead exposed. If you are buying a helmet for a child, don’t buy too big a helmet waiting for the child to grow into it.
- The helmet shall protect the forehead, back of the head and the crown.
- The helmet shall be easy to put on and easy to strap.
- The helmet shall feel light and comfortable to wear. Make sure the chin strap does not pinch or squeeze.
- You shall feel good wearing your helmet. Try it on in front of the mirror before deciding - it is no problem if it looks good too.