Helmets are one of the most important purchases you will ever make when it comes to personal safety in relation to fun, exciting and potentially dangerous activities like bike riding, horseback riding or other outdoor sports.
That said, sometimes wearing a helmet can be downright frustrating and uncomfortable, which means you’re more likely to ditch it and go on about whatever the activity is without any head protection at all. This is not a good idea, because one knock to the noggin can change everything in the blink of an eye, and outside of the physical protection they provide from trauma, they also can provide a nice layer of insulation that helps to regulate body temperature in extreme hot or cold.
In order to have the most comfortable fit of your helmet, make sure that all of the straps are adjusted as they should be. Do not be afraid to play around with them until you get them so that they essentially hug your face at all points. The bowl of the helmet should also hug your head quite closely. A little bit of room is expected, as too tight of a fit can be uncomfortable and cause its own problems, but having things fit too loose basically renders the helmet useless.
Other than the straps, you will want to check and make sure that any automatic sizing sliders or knobs are set to your individual specifications. Not all helmets have these, but if yours does, use it to get the most optimal fit.
It should also go without saying that, once you have your helmet fitting as it should so that you are comfortable, if you are using it and do get into an accident where there is an impact, you will need to inspect the helmet for internal and external damage, replace it if necessary, and find your optimal fit again.






New for 2010, there are bicycling helmets that will please anyone with taste and style. Rather than the bulkier versions of years before, these new helmets are sleek and rounder, which is thought to be better for appearance only. Improvements for impact, wear-ability and ventilation are still upcoming, so there’s no need to run out and buy a new helmet, unless you want to look hip for the black bears.