Cycling Helmet Deals (What to look for during Black Friday)
There are many different types of cycling helmets available, each designed for specific riding styles and conditions. We share with you, in this article, our grain of salt to prepare you to make the best choice when browsing for a bike helmet.
∘ Different types of cycling helmets
∘ Best cycling helmets
∘ Tips To Fit & Adjust A Cycle Helmet
∘ Latest safety technologies to look for when hunting for cycling helmets
∘ Cycling Helmets Tips for Maintenance
Different types of cycling helmets
Road helmets: Road helmets are designed for cyclists who ride on paved roads. They are lightweight and have good ventilation to keep riders comfortable in warm weather.
Mountain bike helmets: Mountain bike helmets are designed for cyclists who ride on off-road trails. They have more coverage than road helmets to protect riders from branches, rocks, and other hazards. They may also have a visor to protect the rider’s eyes from dirt, sun, and branches.
Downhill helmets: Downhill helmets are designed for cyclists who ride on very challenging terrain, such as steep descents and jumps. They have the most coverage of any type of cycling helmet to protect riders from serious falls.
BMX helmets: BMX helmets are designed for cyclists who ride BMX bikes, which are small, lightweight bikes that are often used for tricks and stunts. BMX helmets are similar to skateboard helmets, but they have more coverage on the back of the head to protect riders from falls.
Commuter helmets: Commuter helmets are designed for cyclists who ride in urban areas. They are typically more lightweight and have more ventilation than other types of helmets, and they may also have visors to protect riders from the sun.
Electric bike helmets are designed for cyclists who ride electric bikes. They are similar to commuter helmets, but they may have additional features, such as integrated lights, to make riders more visible to other motorists.
Children’s helmets: Children’s helmets are designed to fit the smaller heads of children. They are typically made of impact-resistant polystyrene foam and have a helmet liner to absorb shock.
Triathlon helmets are designed for athletes who compete in triathlon races, which consist of swimming, cycling, and running. They are similar to road bike helmets in that they are lightweight and have good ventilation. They mostly have a visor to protect the athlete’s eyes from the sun, and they may also have vents that are positioned to allow for better airflow when the athlete is in a tuck position on the bike. In addition, some of them have features that make them easier to transition between the swimming and cycling legs of the race, such as breakaway visors and magnetically-attached chinstraps.
No matter what type of cycling you do, it is important to wear a helmet that fits properly and is certified by a safety organization, such as the ASTM or the CPSC.
Best cycling helmets
Here is our selection of some of the best bike helmets
- Giro Aries Spherical is a top-of-the-line helmet that offers excellent protection, ventilation, and comfort. It features a MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) brain protection system, as well as a Spherical Ballistic Suspension system that allows the helmet to rotate slightly upon impact to reduce rotational forces to the brain.
- Kask Valegro is another great option for a high-performance cycling helmet. It is lightweight and comfortable, and it features a unique 2-in-1 adjustment system that allows you to customize the fit of the helmet to your head.
- Bell Z20 Aero MIPS: a popular (affordable) choice among professional cyclists. It is extremely lightweight and well-ventilated, and it features a SPIN (Specialized Protection Invented with Neuroscience) fit system that provides a comfortable and secure fit.
- Lazer Tonic Kineticore: a must for a budget-friendly cycling helmet. It is still very well-protected, and it features a KinetiCore protection system that uses crumple zones to absorb impact energy.
- POC Omne Air MIPS considered to be a versatile cycling helmet. It can be used for road cycling, mountain biking, and commuting. It is lightweight and comfortable, and it features a MIPS brain protection system.
- Sweet Protection Falconer 2Vi MIPS: a good fit for a mountain bike riders. It features a MIPS brain protection system, as well as a visor that can be adjusted to fit different goggles.
- POC Ventral MIPS is a bit pricey!! but designed to reduce drag, and it features a MIPS brain protection system.
- Limar 737 to be considered if you are looking for a lightweight cycling helmet. It weighs just 240 grams, and it features a MIPS brain protection system.
Tips To Fit & Adjust A Cycle Helmet
Latest safety technologies to look for when hunting for cycling helmets
There are a number of safe technologies used in cycling helmets, including:
- MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System): MIPS is a low-friction layer inside the helmet that allows the helmet to rotate slightly upon impact, which can help to reduce rotational forces to the brain.
- WaveCel: WaveCel is a collapsible cell structure that is designed to slow down and absorb impact energy.
- Koroyd: Koroyd is a series of small, connected tubes that are designed to crumple upon impact, which can help to absorb and disperse impact energy.
- EPP (Expanded Polypropylene): EPP is a type of foam that is designed to be lightweight and flexible, and it can also absorb a lot of impact energy.
- Dual-density EPS (Expanded Polystyrene): Dual-density EPS is a type of foam that has two different densities, which can help to provide better protection for a wider range of impacts.
In addition to these technologies, there are a number of other features that can make a cycling helmet safer, such as:
- A good fit: A helmet should fit snugly but comfortably on your head. There should be no gaps between the helmet and your head, and the helmet should not move around when you shake your head.
- Vents: Vents can help to keep your head cool and comfortable, but they should not be so large that they compromise the strength of the helmet.
- A visor: A visor can help to protect your eyes from the sun, dust, and debris.
- A fit system: A fit system can help to adjust the helmet to fit your head properly.
Cycling Helmets Tips for Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of your cycling helmet can extend its lifespan and ensure that it continues to provide optimal protection in the event of an accident. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your cycling helmet:
Regular cleaning:
- Remove dirt and debris: After each ride, gently brush off any dirt, dust, or debris from the helmet’s exterior using a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth.
- Clean the straps and pads: Hand wash the helmet’s straps and padding using mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid using harsh detergents or solvents, as these can damage the materials.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the straps and pads with clean water until all soap residue is gone.
- Air-dry completely: Allow the straps and pads to air dry completely before reinstalling them on the helmet. Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers or direct sunlight, as this can damage the materials.
- Wipe down the shell: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the helmet’s outer shell to remove any dirt or grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can scratch the helmet’s surface.
Storage:
- Cool and dry location: Store your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. Avoid storing it in areas with harsh chemicals or solvents.
- Proper ventilation: Store your helmet in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of moisture and odors. Do not store it in an airtight container.
- Avoid contact with other objects: Store your helmet separately from other objects to prevent scratches or dents.
Inspection and replacement:
- Regular inspection: Regularly inspect your helmet for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, loose parts, or worn-out padding.
- Replace after impact: If your helmet has been involved in an accident, even a minor one, it should be replaced immediately. The helmet may have sustained internal damage that could compromise its protective capabilities in future impacts.
- Replace after five years: Even if your helmet shows no signs of damage, it should be replaced after five years of use. The materials used in helmets degrade over time, and a helmet that is too old may not provide adequate protection.
By following these simple care and maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your cycling helmet remains in top condition, providing you with years of reliable protection on your rides.
Read also: Best Cycling GPS Deals during Black Friday