Answering Questions About Bicycle Helmets

How can you tell if a helmet is safe or "approved"?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) approved federally mandated standards for bicycle helmets in 1999, and all helmets that are sold today for bicycle use must have the CPSC sticker.

Can other kinds of helmets be used?

What about using helmets intended for other sports or uses, like motorcycle, football, hockey or mountaineering helmets or construction hard hats? Each type of helmet is designed for protection in specific conditions and may not protect in bike crashes or falls. It is not advisable to wear the incorrect type of helmet for any of those uses. Bike helmets are very protective in head-first falls at fairly high speed, as well as being light and well ventilated for comfort and acceptability.

Where can I get a helmet?

Helmets meeting the safety standards are available at bicycle shops and at some discount, department and toy stores in adult, toddler and children's sizes and styles.

What are the merits of the two types of helmets, "Hard Shell" and "Soft Shell?"

The essential part of the helmet for impact protection is a thick layer of firm styrofoam, called polystyrene, that crushes on impact. "Hard shell" helmets also have a hard outer shell of plastic or fiberglass that provides a shield against penetration of sharp objects and holds the polystyrene together if it cracks in a fall or crash. The "soft shell" helmets have no hard outer shell but are made of an extra-thick layer of polystyrene covered with a cloth cover or a surface coating. The cloth cover is an essential part of many soft shell helmets. If the helmet comes with a cover, the cover must always be worn to hold the helmet together if the polystyrene cracks on impact. While there is no concensus on the relative safety of the two types, models of both types have passed the ANSI and/or Snell tests.

Are there helmets for toddlers?

Yes. Many toddler-sized helmets are of the soft-shell variety. They are light, minimizing the weight for small children whose necks may not be strong enough to comfortably hold a hard-shell helmet. These usually have a tough outer surface coating instead of a cloth cover. Helmets (and bike travel) are not recommended for babies under age one, whose neck structure is relatively weak.

Can a helmet be re-used after a crash?

Any helmet that has been used in a serious crash in which the polystyrene liner has cracked or been crushed should be retired with gratitude. It has served its purpose and will not provide adequate protection in another crash. If you are uncertain whether the helmet is still usable, return it to a bike shop or the manufacturer for examination.

How should a helmet fit?

A helmet should be worn squarely on top of the head, covering the top of the forehead. If it is tipped back, it will not protect the forehead. The helmet fits well if it doesn't move around on the head or slide down over the wearer's eyes when pushed and pulled. The chin strap should be adjusted to fit snugly.

How long will a child's helmet fit?

Unlike a pair of shoes, a toddler's or child's helmet should fit for at least several years or even more. Most models have removable fitting-pads that can be replaced with thinner ones as the child's head grows.

Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center 325 9th Ave, Box 359960 Seattle, WA 98104-2499 (206) 521-1520

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