Bicycle Helmets

Bicycle Helmets

Bike helmets have come a long way in design and materials over the last 10 years or so. The polycarbonates used in today’s helmets is a much lighter and stronger material. A good helmet will cost in the range of $75 to $150, but it’s much cheaper than a medical bill for head trauma.

I know a lot of people don’t like to wear a helmet for various reasons, from “it messes up my hair” to “macho guys don’t wear helmets”. But the truth is, there’s nothing macho about not wearing a helmet.

So what should you look for in a helmet? Well, proper fit is important; to big and it will move around in an accident, and too tight will give you a headache after riding awhile. Pick one that has good air circulation, such as the ones pictured. Keeping your head cool is important.

Get a brand name with a good reputation, such as Bell or Giro. When it comes to your head, you want a helmet that isn’t going to crack.

While most helmets protect only against direct impact, MIPS technology reduces rotational forces when the helmet gets hit at an angle. I think getting a helmet with MIPS technology is a very good idea.