07/08/2021
Good morning everyone.
Preaching to the converted in sports cycling but please push this message to all cyclists and cycling groups in your network across Southland and beyond.
CORRECT HELMET FIT - A fundamental & important message :
Unfortunately every time I’m out riding I see all manner of helmet fit versions out there including the old ‘handle bar helmet’ 🙂 - I believe this is an attempt to feel that the person is complying with the regulations. That’s just like having the life jacket in the boat but not wearing it or carrying the body armour in your hand as you are being fired upon – like the TV ads.
There are many shapes and sizes of helmets, just the same as there are shapes and sizes of heads.
A helmet can save you from a nasty concussion or brain injury and I advocate a policy of – ‘NO HELMET NO RIDE’ whatever the riding circumstances.
You do not need to pay 100s $$$ for a helmet however you should check that it has a NZ, AUS, EU or US standard displayed. Buying something without a standard just because its cheap is not recommended.
There is no actual shelf life on helmets, however you need to check for damage and know the usage history, such as exposure to sunlight etc etc.
1) A good helmet should have a nice smooth outer shell – this is to allow the helmet to slide and not grip the surface in the event of a fall.
2) No cracks, splits or damage to the outer & inner shells.
3) The straps should be adjustable.
4) A rear adjuster (usually a wheel or slide mechanism) will allow a better fit.
5) A well fitted helmet should look something like the picture below with the green tick. About a finger or two width above the eyebrows, the strap adjusters just below the earlobes and not too tight under the chin.
6) Shortening the straps that sit in front of your ears can bring the helmet forwards to a better position.
7) If you have long hair lower your pony-tail to allow the helmet to sit forward on your head.
Please do not wear hard peaked caps or beanies under your helmet. These will negate the usefulness of the helmet in the event of a fall. Instead you could wear a thin ‘skull-cap’ under the helmet in cold conditions – they are designed for that use.
Credit to Vicki Butterworth - the model for the photos🙂
Have fun and enjoy the ride!
Chris