Helmets
Buyer's Guide

Helmets with an ABS hard shell construction are robust, durable and offer maximum wearing comfort thanks to the EPS inner shell.
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is an extremely shockproof plastic that works against impacts on the outer side of the helmet. On the inside a light EPS foam ensures ultimate protection.
Gluing both layers together makes them an unbeatable team when it comes to protection and durability.

Hybrid construction combines the best properties from two constructions. The mixture of robust ABS hard shells in areas that are prone to impacts and the ultra-light polycarbonate shells with directly injected EPS foam ensures a lower weight. The best protection and durability are always guaranteed with this construction.

In Europe Standard EN 1077 A/B guarantees the highest safety for winter sports. The North American equivalent is ASTM F2040. Helmets with this certification are approved for winter sports.

You can use helmets with either of the certifications stated above without hesitation for skating, snowboarding and skiing.

Here you'll find an overview of all of the standards you should keep in mind if you want to use your helmet all year round:

• EN 1077 A/B and ASTM F2040 – ski and snowboard helmets
• EN 1078 and CPSC 1203 bike and skateboard helmets

There are different types of ventilation options. Active ventilation provides a rapid inward flow of fresh air while passive ventilation systems divert moisture to the outside. Certified ski and snowboard helmets often offer the possibility to regulate the inward and outward flow of the air yourself.

Ear pads keep you warm and offer additional protection. Some manufacturers pay attention to audio compatibility in the construction. These pads provide space for speakers or contain their own sound system. With year-round helmets and beanie compatible helmets you can remove the ear pads.

Every helmet offers at least one possibility to adjust the size. Exchangeable pads, different liners or a turning mechanism are all possible options. In the next chapter we have a closer look at the different variants.

In high-end models Smith includes Koroyd® to achieve superior shock absorption and better ventilation. Cylinders in the crumple zones ensure effective protection. They absorb energy more efficiently by applying an even load. Koroyd® has less volume than other materials and has the same or even better properties. It is lighter and offers more comfort.

To work out which size suits you, put a measuring tape around your head about 2 centimetres above your eyebrows and ears and measure your entire head circumference. Compare the result with size chart of the relevant manufacturer and look for a suitable model.

The sizes are mostly listed as S, M, L, and XL which can, however, differ from brand to brand. That's why it's always worth checking the size chart.

There are different ways to adjust the size of a helmet. Pads and padding that are supplied with the helmet allow you to adjust the inside to perfectly fit the shape of your head. In addition, some models have a turning mechanism on the back. You can use that to regulate the size even more precisely and be even safer as a result.

Signs that you need to change your helmet:

• If you find dents or cracks in the shell, it is clear that you need to change your helmet.
• EPS foam loses its full protection after an impact. as it breaks under pressure. That is also the case if you can't see any outward changes.
• In general you should change your helmet every 3 to 5 years as the material changes with time.

People often buy a larger model to make room for a beanie under the helmet. A helmet that is generally not beanie compatible and a size too big is never as safe as a helmet that sits well. Helmets that are too big can slip during a fall which can lead to additional injuries.

Some brands offer special models that are beanie compatible . This lets you enjoy the best protection, even with a beanie under your helmet. Smith is a pioneer in this field. The Smith Scout offers removable ear pads and a lifestyle fit system that also works with a beanie under your helmet. You can also wear a beanie under the Smith Code, a high-end model with Koroyd® and MIPS®.

Back protectors protect you in the case of falls or collisions. Simpler back protectors come with a protective zone at the spine and adjustable shoulder straps. This protects a large part of your back and you can enjoy full freedom of movement. Protector vests on the other hand also have protective elements on the ribs, shoulders and often on the chest. Most of these models have a zipper. Depending on the terrain and the riding level you can look for the most suitable protector for you. It is important that it fits well so that you like to put it on and don't notice it during the day.

Crash pants are not only popular among beginners . They are also a big hit in freestyle. Soft padded zones at the coccyx protect against unpleasant injuries and pads on the hips prevent bruises or even worse. You wear crash pants over your first layer. They are often made from highly-breathable material with different inserts. Generally they are flat and don't add too much bulk.

Injuries to the wrists often occur when you fall onto the back of your body. Previously wrist pads were stiff and cumbersome. A new generation by Biomex, as can be found in Level Gloves, keeps your wrists in an anatomically correct position while still offering you almost complete freedom of movement. They not only cushion overflexion but also work against rotational forces. This technology can prevent injuries and is comfortable at the same time.