Do I need a helmet for cycling?

Posted by BC on Mar 6th 2023

Do I need a helmet for cycling?

A bike helmet is an important piece of safety equipment for any cyclists. Wearing a helmet can help protect you in the event of a fall or collision, and it is always important to wear one that fits properly.

There are a few different types of bike helmets to choose from, and it is important to know the difference between them. The most common type of helmet is the traditional bicycle helmet, which is designed for road cycling.

Mountain bike helmets and BMX helmets are also available, and these are designed for off-road riding. There are also helmets available that are specifically designed for women, children, and even infants.

When choosing a bike helmet, it is important to consider the type of cycling you will be doing as well as your budget. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about bike helmets – from the different types available to the importance of fit.

Introduction

Bike helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment for cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time rider, a helmet can help protect you from serious head injuries in the event of a fall or collision.

There are a wide variety of helmet styles and features to choose from, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about bike helmets, including how to choose the right one for your needs.

It's important to wear a helmet while cycling!

Wearing a bike helmet is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe while cycling. In the event of a crash or fall, a helmet acts as a cushion to buffer the impact and prevent head and brain injuries. Studies have found that people who wear helmets while cycling are up to 85% less likely to suffer a serious head injury in the event of a crash. In other words, wearing a bike helmet can be the difference between life and death. Beyond safety, a helmet also helps keep you comfortable, block wind and insulate against cold.

What kind of bike helmet should you get?

When deciding what kind of bike helmet to purchase, the first thing to consider is the type of cycling you’ll be doing. Helmets are designed for different purposes and disciplines, and choosing the right cycling helmet is key to staying comfortable and safe. For road cyclists, aerodynamic cycling helmets are lightweight and designed to reduce drag, allowing you to ride faster such as the Limar Air Speed MIPS or the LAS Cobalto. Mountain bike helmets (MTB helmet), are designed for more protection on the back of the head and ventilation, with longer brim and visors such as the Limar Detla MIPS, Smith Engage, or the IXS Trail. City Riding or commuting helmets such as the thousand helmet are also available. BMX helmets are designed for protection and ease of movement during technical tricks and stunts such as the Venture BMX helmet.

How do you know if a bike helmet fits properly?

Once you’ve chosen the right type of helmet for your needs, it’s important to make sure it fits properly. To determine if a cycling helmet fits correctly, start by placing the helmet on your head and adjust it so that it lies level. The front of the helmet should sit just above your eyebrows. Then, fasten the straps and check that they’re snug but not too tight. Finally, shake your head side to side and up and down to make sure the helmet does not move.

What is MIPS and do I need it?

A MIPS helmet or a cycling helmet with MIPS technology offers greater brain protection than a helmet without MIP. MIPSs is a Swedish technology co-developed by neurosurgeon Hans Von Holst, who regularly saw patients with traumatic brain injuries as a result of bicycle falls. He took an active interest in the subject of protections and after 19 long years of research Mips was born. M.I.P.S stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System.

Before giving you a concrete explanation of why MIPS technology is essential, let's go back for a moment to how an impact can have serious consequences on your brain.

As you know, our brain floats in our skull thanks to cerebrospinal fluid. The Mips technology imitates the natural protection system using a rotational shell attached to the inside of the helmet. Upon impact, the helmet grips the ground while the Mips system holds your head and performs the necessary circular movements thus reducing rotational energy transmitted to the brain.

With MIPS technology, you get better protection, your skull and your brain are safer, and you don't lose comfort or support. Helmets with MIPS

Tips for wearing a bike helmet

To make sure your helmet is doing its job, there are a few tips to keep in mind before each ride. First, check the condition of your helmet for any signs of damage such as cracks or dents. If you find any, it’s best to replace the helmet as soon as possible. Secondly, make sure all the straps and tabs are tightened and connected properly. Finally, brush up on helmet safety rules, regulations and laws in your area, as these can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

Why do bike helmets expire?

Over time, the foam and plastic parts of bike helmets can degrade and weaken, making them less effective at protecting your head. For this reason, most bike helmet manufacturers recommend replacing your helmet every three to five years. This is also a good time to check for any damage such as cracks or scratches.

How often should you replace your bike helmet?

Most bike helmet manufacturers suggest replacing your helmet every three to five years. Additionally, if you notice any signs of wear or damage such as cracks or dents, it’s best to replace the helmet right away. Mountain bike helmets often sustain more damage then road bike helmets due to the environment and riding styles. Make sure to inspect your helmet regularly to ensure it’s in proper working condition. Rule of thumb, if it is damaged or dented, get a new helmet.

Conclusion

Bike helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment for cyclists of all skill levels. When choosing a helmet, it’s important to consider the type of cycling you’ll be doing, as well as the fit and condition of the helmet. Additionally, it’s best to replace your helmet every three to five years. By following these tips, you can stay safe and comfortable while enjoying the great outdoors. Find all the helmets you need at BoyerCycling.com