Cycling helmets: types and choices

Cycling has become increasingly popular in recent years. To protect the cyclist from injuries in case of a possible fall, there is special equipment, and the helmet is one of the important attributes.

In principle, adult men's and women's bicycle helmets do not differ at all and are determined by their purpose. The purpose of a bicycle helmet is to protect the head from injury from a fall. The protective qualities of the helmet are based on the principle of operation described below.

The main force of the impact received during the fall is taken over by the outer shell of the helmet, and the impact is somewhat softened by the inner polystyrene foam layer of the shell.

Then, to a lesser extent, the load through the layer acts on the head of a person. Thus, The bicycle helmet distributes the impact force throughout the head, protecting its skin from wounds and abrasions.

A cyclist helmet includes a number of elements.

The materials for the manufacture of the case are expanded polystyrene and polyurethane foam. Expanded polystyrene on impact is first compressed and then restored to its shape. It is characterized by low weight and high environmental friendliness. Polyurethane foam resembles regular foam rubber.

The outer shell of the helmet is covered with a plastic sheath. The shell allows for the distribution of the impact force. In addition, it protects the body from damage, punctures and cracks, and is also capable of sliding on the ground after a cyclist falls.This ability reduces the risk of serious injury to the neck and head.

The bike helmet is fixed using these elements:

• straps - they are designed for attaching a helmet to the head;
• head volume adjuster - located in the back of the helmet and coordinates the degree of tightening using a special disc or slider.

They are necessary to provide fresh air to the head and prevent overheating.

Additional attributes of the helmet are visor and mosquito net, which create more comfort for the cyclist. Some experienced road bikers also attach to the helmet rearview mirror, making it easier to ride in heavy traffic.

There are 2 types of bicycle helmets - hardshell and in-mold.

Helmet type hardshell is a 2-layer construction consisting of an inner foam layer that absorbs impacts and an outer layer of high strength plastic. The weight of such a helmet is quite heavy, but it has a higher degree of reliability.

Helmet type in-mold Is a one-piece construction of shock-absorbing foam and a thin outer layer. The weight of this helmet is relatively light and it has good ventilation. This improves wearing comfort and reduces pressure on the neck. But the outer coating is not strong enough.

The main and basic requirement for a helmet is to provide maximum protection. To guarantee the protective properties, helmets are tested for shock absorption, resistance to damage from cutting objects, strength of head retention with fixing straps, quality of the fastening system, visibility is monitored - it should not be less than 105 degrees.

In addition, helmets must have good aerodynamic properties due to their shape, size and overall appearance. These properties reduce drag while riding, which is especially important for sports cyclists.

Other equally important requirements are comfort in wearing, lightness of a helmet, provision of aeration. A reflective sticker is also required and is attached to the back of the helmet. Such an element, reflected in the sun or in headlights, draws the attention of other drivers and increases road safety on the motorway.

There are several types of helmets. First of all, the variety is determined by the manner and style of cycling.

These helmets are suitable for beginners and outdoor enthusiasts, for cycling and driving on the highway. They cover the top of the head, leaving the temples and the back of the head exposed, and are equipped with a large number of aeration holes that provide good ventilation. Often complemented by a sun visor.

They are considered the lightest in weight and are used by professional athletes. They are similar in design to XC, but they have better ventilation thanks to slightly larger openings, good aerodynamic properties and sufficient visibility. There is no visor.

This type is used by athletes in special cycling disciplines such as BMX (street, dirt). For the manufacture of such helmets, a thicker and stronger plastic is used. There are no aeration holes. The protective properties of the pot are higher, but the weight is also much higher.

It is used by cyclists who prefer such extreme riding styles as freeride, downhill.This is a closed helmet that protects the head, face and neck. It usually comes with a clip-on visor (or goggles) to protect the eyes from foreign particles.

This type is used by athletes in race track cycling. The streamlined shape and lack of ventilation reduces ride resistance and improves aerodynamics.

These helmets are intended exclusively for high-speed circuit and track cycling. Their teardrop shape improves aerodynamic properties. They are quite heavy and have fewer vents.

They are distinguished by a durable fixation system, a stronger outer layer.

In addition to adults, there are kids helmets... Usually these are universal amateur species, the size of which does not exceed 45-57 cm, intended for children from 2 to 12 years old. There are fewer aeration holes in children's bowlers. It is lighter in weight and the inner liner is much softer.

Usually, the size of the helmet is indicated by the manufacturer in a letter version. To determine your size, it is necessary to correctly measure the volume of the head. It is measured along the line passing above the eyebrows (2 cm higher) and through the occipital, most protruding, part of the head.

The result can be checked in the table:

However, even knowing your size, it is better to try it on before buying a helmet.

The rating of models of different types of helmets showed that the best and most demanded are models from the Giro, Casco and Fox brands.

The best representatives of the Giro brand are models of bicycle helmets Giro Synthe and Giro Foray MIPS.

• Model Synthe refers to aerodynamic road helmets. It combined such positive characteristics as low weight (only 223 g), comfort provided by excellent aeration and good aerodynamic properties.

• Helmet shell due to use air system Roc Loc has a slightly raised shape, which makes it very comfortable for almost every person. According to the manufacturer, the ventilation capacity of the helmet is so high at any speed that it surpasses other models in the line.

• Model Foray has an original design. The streamlined shape of the helmet, narrowed at the back of the head, is comfortable in any position of the head.

The helmet is equipped with a system of protection against impacts of different directions, which guarantees a very high degree of reliability. Additional foam pads provide a comfortable wearing experience. The ventilation system includes 5 channels through which air is distributed over the entire surface of the head, even at low speeds. The model is equipped with a size adjustment mechanism.

• Company Casco also represented by several models. Casco Speedairo - a helmet designed for riding at high speeds... Differs in reliability and high level of security. Excellent ventilation is provided by the internal air gap and ventilation holes, eliminating overheating and hypothermia.

The model has a visor, the position of which can be changed using a special device.

Casco Activ-2 is a versatile helmet designed for city driving and for walking on country roads. The body is made of high quality durable materials and meets European standards.

Ventilation is created through large openings, creating a microclimate that protects against overheating. The model is also equipped with a Casco Loc adjustment system, a height-adjustable visor, a mechanism for adjusting the size and fit, and a mosquito net. Increased safety at night is guaranteed by the presence of reflective markings.

• Full-face helmets are represented by the Fox brand. Model Fox Rampage Pro Carbon considered the best of the entire brand line. It combines all new technical and design advances.

Let's consider the advantages of this model.

1. The outer shell is made of high-strength carbon fiber while being lightweight. The reinforced jaw gives the whole structure solidity.
2. The use of an additional innovative protective system MYPS, consisting in the fact that the inner layer of the helmet is attached to the outer shell in such a way that it can slide on it due to a thin pad made of special fabric, which reduces the risk of head injury in an accident.
3. The aeration system includes 17 holes, which are located on almost the entire surface of the helmet.
4. The inner layer is made of materials that have a climate control function. They are able to quickly absorb sweat and dry quickly, are breathable and have antibacterial properties.
5. A secure fit is guaranteed by double D-ring clasps.
6. The design is distinguished by the brightness and variety of colors with a matte or glossy finish.

There are many nuances to consider when choosing a helmet.

• The size... The correct size guarantees not only comfort, but also safety, therefore, when buying a helmet, you should try it on. Models with adjustable size are individually tailored. Feeling discomfort is a reason to try on a different model.

• Bicycle helmet landing. Having put on a helmet and fastened the belts, you should check your feelings: the helmet should not sit very loosely or, conversely, tightly and put pressure on your head. The straps and edges must not cut into the skin. When moving the head, a slight deviation of the model to the sides is permissible, but it should not slide onto the neck or forehead. When properly seated, the helmet takes a horizontal position, covering the forehead and back of the head.

• Fixation. The best option if the clasp is passed through the top surface of the case and is attached to it. It is more reliable. Straps attached to the side surfaces do not guarantee a secure fit, and the helmet may fly off if dropped. The clasp should be unbuttoned with one hand.

• Ventilation. It should be remembered that ventilation is better if there are more holes in the helmet.

• The weight of the helmet must also be taken into account. Heavy models put a lot of pressure on the neck, so it is preferable to choose light models, although they are more expensive.

• Security... Helmets with CE marking EN 1078 (European safety certificate) have a high degree of safety. This means that the model has passed a series of tests.

• Quality. It is necessary to check the condition of the inner layer and the outer shell. They must be free from cracks, dents or other defects.

• Comfort. For added comfort, many models have an inner lining that absorbs sweat and wicks it out. On the top models, these pads are removable and washable.

• Colour. Cyclists usually choose a helmet that matches their uniform color. However, it is desirable that the color is bright, which means more visible to other drivers. If night travel is possible, it is recommended to buy helmets with reflective elements or a small flickering flashlight.

It is preferable to buy helmets with size adjustment. This will allow you to put on the comforter in cold weather by loosening the straps.

In some countries a bicycle helmet is compulsory for a cyclist and there is a penalty for riding without it. In our country, the traffic rules do not provide for this, and you can ride without a helmet, but personal safety requires wearing it.

There are certain rules for using a helmet. After purchasing, you first need to study the instructions for the helmet and strictly follow them to ensure safety.

It is also important to put on the helmet correctly and secure the buckles in place. The helmet is needed only for personal use, and you can not lend it to someone, or use someone else's.

After falling and receiving an impact, the helmet must be replaced, even if there is no visible damage, since the cracks can be internal and invisible. It is also recommended to change the helmet after 4-5 years, even in the absence of accidents.

Store the helmet in a cool, dark, dry place. You can wash it with warm water and a cloth without using cleaning agents.

The following video provides an overview of popular cycling helmet models.