How To Fit A Ski Helmet

Air Date: 3/17/2003

Helmet sizing is very simple. Take a tape measure and measure in centimeters the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows. That's your helmet size.

Not all helmets fit the same. Head shape is a factor in your helmet selection as well. In most cases, your helmet will fit if you get the right size, but there are circumstances where the helmet will not fit due to the shape of the helmet and the shape of your head. In cases like this, you may have to try on a few different models to find the right one.

For Kids it is very important to not add too much to account for growth. A helmet that is too loose is not going to be safe and can actually be dangerous. Kids' heads grow relatively slow so get one that fits. The only time you may want to bump up a size is if their head is right in-between sizes. Then you can select the larger size.

Remember! Not all helmets fit the same!

Facts

• According to the National SAFE KIDS Campaign wearing a snug helmet properly can reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 88 percent. Make sure your child wears their helmet correctly – centered on top of their head and always with the straps buckled. Children who wear their helmets tipped back have a 52 percent greater risk of head injury than those who wear their helmets properly.
  
• A study conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission determined that helmets could protect against 44 percent of head injuries among all skiers and boarders and up to 53 percent of those head injuries among children up to age 15.

Considerations

• Many ski hills will not allow anyone to enter a terrain park without a helmet, adults included.  
• We are all aware of the need to wear a helmet when riding a bike and some winter activities present just as much, if not more, of a risk of head injury.  
• Children are at the greatest risk of a severe head injury from skiing or snowboarding.  
• Children today are more accustomed to wearing helmets for many activities, like biking, in-line skating, hockey.  
• Studies have shown that helmets can prevent or reduce the severity of head injuries during skiing and snowboarding, as well as other winter activities.
• Wearing a helmet can save your life.

Helmet Safety Tips

• Wear helmets that are specifically designed for the activity you are participating in.
• Helmets should be comfortable and well fitting, with straps snug to prevent movement of the helmet. When purchasing helmets, have them fitted.  
• Helmets that have been involved in an accident or fall, are cracked or old should be replaced.

Your Responsibility Code

Skiing can be enjoyed in many ways. At ski areas you may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, cross country and other specialized ski equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Observe the code listed below and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing experience.

• Always stay in control.
• People ahead of you have the right of way.
• Stop in a safe place for you and others.
• Whenever starting downhill or merging, look uphill and yield.
• Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
• Observe signs and warnings, and keep off closed trails.
• Know how to use the lifts safely.

KNOW THE CODE. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

This is a partial list. Be safety conscious.

Officially endorsed by: NATIONAL SKI AREAS ASSOCIATION.

Additional Resources

National Ski Patrol

National Ski Areas Association

Ski Helmets.com

450 Edison Way Reno, Nevada 89502 (775)858-5700 Fax (775)858-5720