How to Choose a Bike Helmet

A helmet is the one piece of cycling kit people tend to buy in a hurry, often by grabbing whatever color looks good on the shelf. Yet the right choice comes down to a few calm checks: is it certified, does it fit your head, does it suit the riding you actually do, and will you happily wear it every time? This guide walks through each one.

Start with the safety sticker

Look inside the helmet for a label showing it meets a recognized bicycle helmet standard. In the United States, bike helmets must meet the CPSC standard, and the sticker says so. In Europe you will see EN 1078. Other countries use their own marks. Buy from a shop or seller you trust, because counterfeit helmets without real testing do turn up online.

Some helmets also include a rotational-impact system, a thin layer designed to let the helmet move slightly on the head in an angled impact. MIPS is the best-known name. It can be a sensible extra, but fit and certification still come first.

Measure your head

1. Wrap a soft tape measure around your head about a finger's width above your eyebrows and just above your ears.
2. Keep the tape level and snug, not tight.
3. Note the measurement and compare it with each maker's size chart. Sizes differ between brands, so do not rely on the letter alone.

If you fall between two sizes, try both. Head shapes vary too: some helmets suit rounder heads, others longer, oval ones.

Pick a style for how you ride

Think about the time of day you ride as well. If you are often out in the early morning or after dark, a bright color and reflective trim help others see you.

Get the fit right

A helmet only does its job if it stays where it should. Try it on in the shop and work through this checklist:

• Level on the head. The front edge should sit roughly one or two finger widths above your eyebrows, not tilted back to show your forehead.
• Snug all round. Tighten the retention dial at the back until the helmet stays put when you shake your head gently, without pressure points.
• Side straps form a V. The point of the V should sit just below each earlobe.
• Chin strap firm. Buckled, it should let about one finger slide underneath. When you open your mouth wide, you should feel the helmet pull down slightly.
• No rocking. Push the helmet forward and back. If it slides enough to uncover your forehead or tip over your eyes, adjust again or try another size.

Comfort matters more than you think

A helmet that feels hot, heavy or awkward ends up hanging on the handlebars. Check the weight in your hand, look at the number of vents if you ride in warm weather, and see whether the pads are removable for washing. If you wear glasses, make sure the arms sit comfortably with the straps. Long hair? Some helmets have a cradle that makes room for a ponytail.

When to replace a helmet

• After any crash where your head hit something, even if you see no damage. The foam inside is designed to crush once.
• If you see cracks, dents or a loose shell, or if the straps and buckle are worn.
• When the maker's recommended replacement period has passed; materials age, especially with sun and sweat.
• When a child has grown out of it.

Store your helmet out of direct sunlight and away from heat, such as a hot car. Clean it with mild soap and water, never solvents.

One part of a safer ride

A good helmet works best alongside lights, visible clothing and a bike that fits. Once your helmet is sorted, set your saddle correctly with our guide to adjusting your bike seat height, and if you plan to ride to work, read our bike commuting tips before your first trip.