If you choose to wear a helmet, getting one that works for you and the type of riding you're interested in is important. But, finding the right headgear can be more challenging and confusing than you might think, especially because there are so many different styles and options available. Luckily for you, Bikester know a thing or two about helmets and this guide should help you make sense of the vast selection on offer.

Helmets have come a long way. Thankfully, the days of uncomfortable, poorly-ventilated and heavy helmets are mostly over; for a modest sum, you can buy a well-fitting, light and attractive helmet. Helmets are available in every conceivable style and for every niche of cycling. However, there are a few things to consider before buying.

Helmet Fit

A well-fitting helmet should fit snugly without being too tight. Measure the circumference of your head, wrapping a tape measure slightly above the ears and around the middle of the forehead, completely encircling the head. When buying a helmet, you’ll usually be able to find a sizing chart on the product page. Try to find a helmet that comfortably accommodates your head circumference.

Most modern helmets incorporate a plastic size-adjustment system under the shell that enables you to fine-tune the fit. This is as easy as turning a thumbwheel at the back. While this gives you some leeway with sizing, care should be taken to buy the right size in the first place.

Many cheaper helmets are only available in one size. In our experience, these helmets can fit well if you’re somewhere in the middle, but if your head is on the bigger or smaller side, they can be uncomfortable.

Impact-absorption technologies

MIPS isn’t the only technology that’s designed to lessen rotational forces on the head: POC has its “SPIN” technology, Bontrager has “WaveCel”, a system designed to soak up impact before it reaches the head, and Endura offers a similar system called “Koroyd.”

Types of helmets

URBAN/COMMUTER

Of course, there’s no rule that you have to wear a commuting-specific helmet while riding through town – many cyclists are perfectly happy with a mountain bike or road helmet.

For road riding, top priorities are aerodynamics, weight, and ventilation – quite possibly in that order. A more expensive helmet will be lighter, should offer improved aerodynamics and be well ventilated. Pricier helmets also tend to look more flash – and let’s be honest, in the competitive world of road cycling, looks matter!

There are several different types of mountain biking helmets:

For aggressive downhill riding, many riders opt for a full-face helmet that offers maximum protection in the event of a fall. For enduro or rougher trail use, robust ‘open-face’ helmets with increased rear head protection and the option to attach a chin guard are popular.

For cross-country mountain biking, helmets look more like road helmets, but usually have a removeable peak and slightly enhanced protection at the back of the head. They should be light and well ventilated.

For BMX and dirt jump, helmets are plainer ‘bucket’ style helmets. Nowadays, many of these also come with internal size adjustment systems. Ventilation isn’t so good with these helmets, but they reflect the gritty street style of these disciplines.

HELMET ALTERNATIVES

You may have asked yourself what that chunky black collar is you’ve seen people wear while cycling. That would be the Hövding airbag helmet, worn around the neck, that inflates in the event of a fall. Great if you have a cool hairdo and don’t want something on your head while cycling, but pricy and not for everyone.

Many people don’t wear a helmet at all. In many countries, particularly those with advanced cycling infrastructure and a strong bike culture, you’re more likely to see commuters not wearing a helmet: read Germany, Denmark and The Netherlands. On the other hand, certain nations have made helmet use compulsory.

One thing is certain: we can all benefit by practising safer cycling and being more vigilant around motorists.