Of all the items forming together what is known as cycling equipment, the cycling helmet has one of the most important roles, offering multiple advantages in what regards the rider’s protection, performance, comfort and looks. The article at hand will cover up the main characteristics of a cycling helmet and also offer you a short base of brands and prices so that you can get a general idea on how much you should be saving up, in case you’re planning on buying one.
A report coming from the Snell Memorial Foundation shows that each year, over 20 000 cyclists are hospitalized around the world. Although the injuries they suffer range from muscle strains to cuts and bruises, some come in with head injuries which are sometimes fatal. The report states that 75% of bicycle related deaths are the effect of head injuries and 85% of these injuries could have been prevented if the bicyclist would have worn a cycling helmet. These numbers are enough of a statement to show just how important it is to wear a (good) cycling helmet.
As of the year 1999, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute (BHSI) have set a few standards that all new cycling helmet models must comply with. A thorough testing phase will check each helmet model for consistency with these standards, the tests including an 11 mph impact on simulated rocks and curbs and 14 mph impact on any kind of flat surface. So the first thing to check for when buying a new cycling helm is its compliance with these standards which are rated as safe.
Of course, as of lately the technology used in producing cycling helmets has greatly advanced and they are now more shock resistant and safer than ever. However it’s not a general rule that the higher the price tag on a model, the higher the security it offers. As the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute states, “some of the most protective helmets are out there in the discount stores at prices from 10 to 20 dollars.” In any event, regardless of how much you pay for your cycling helmet, make sure it has a solid shock resistance and that it’s light enough to wear without causing discomfort.
The straps holding the cycling helmet to your head are also very important. In some cases, prior to your head hitting the ground, there will be another concussion beforehand. Think of a car accident; there’s little use in wearing the helmet if it jumps off your head when the impact with the car occurs, so that when you hit the ground your helmet will be flying in mid-air. Suffice to say that it’s the straps’ role to keep it on your head at all times, so they need to be very solid but also comfortable enough as to not hinder your riding.
Another important feature that you should look for in a cycling helmet is a good ventilation. This will be extremely important in keeping your head comfortably cool during hot summer rides and allowing sweat to dissipate.
Although “cycling helmet” is a general term used to group all available types and models, there is actually quite a bit of division in this sense. For example sport helmets are intended for casual bike riders and are intended for all around cycling. Mountain bike helmets have thicker straps to provide further stability on the type of terrain you’ll most likely be encountering. They are also slightly heavier and better protected. Road cycling helmets are very light and have an aerodynamic shape and that really shows off at high speed tracks. It’s usually this type of cycling helmet that you’ll see the professionals wearing during a tour. They also have larger vents in order to improve ventilation (high speed means you’ll put more effort, thus more intense sweating).
Like the above-mentioned Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute quote stated, you can find a good cycling helmet for a discount of 10 to 20 dollars, however those models will probably not be the latest, nor will they have the ultimate technologies and let’s face it, the latest fashion trends. If you’re looking for something top-notch, you could try out the latest models coming from brands like Bell, Giro or Louis Garneau at prices ranging anywhere from $35 to over $80.
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