The best ski helmets to round up your ski trip

Consider these factors before purchasing a ski helmet:

1. Fit

The fit of a helmet is its most crucial component. To prevent damage to your brain, it must fit comfortably and correctly.

To see if a helmet fits you, measure your head size by using a cloth tape measure (or a string if one is not available) to obtain the measurement immediately above the brow line. Centimeters are the measurement system used by all helmet producers.

The proper technique to try on your helmet after receiving it is to spread the ear pieces or flaps apart. Next, place the forehead of the helmet on your head before setting the remainder of the helmet back. No gaps should exist in a helmet that is fitted properly, and the padding should all sit flush against the head.

Give the helmet a couple of gentle pushes from front to back after it's on your head. The helmet should continue to fit snugly enough that when you press on it, the skin around your eyebrows and forehead moves as well. Additionally, gently move the helmet from side to side while moving your head as well. The helmet is too big if it flips around or moves independently of your head. The helmet is too small if it does not rest flat against your head. If you only have one or the other, you won't be protected.

2. Style

Helmets come in a variety of designs. Each aesthetic has a distinct function.

• Half Shell: Half Shell helmets are hard shell helmets with soft ear pads. The soft ear pads are often washable and detachable, as are the liners. For skiers of all skill levels, these helmets are the most widely used type.

• Full Shell: Full Shell helmets cover the entire head, including the ears, with rigid sides. They contain screw holes for the mouthguards that many racing leagues mandate and are commonly utilized for racing. The Wildhorn and Giro Ratio are prime examples.

• Full Face: A chin guard and a visor are features of full-face helmets. They are generally worn by contestants in huge mountain races or skiercross competitions and provide the highest level of protection.

3. Ventilation 

One of the nicest and most crucial features to take into account when choosing a helmet is the ventilation system. In order to keep air moving over the face foam of your goggles and prevent fogging, many helmets incorporate venting directly on the forehead or brow area.

Adjustable Vents are equipped with a switch or toggle that you may use to open and close the vents to control your body temperature. On the helmet, there are fixed vents that are always left open to let air flow through the helmet.

The Giro Ratio, Cirque X and Plus D have wonderful ventilation systems. 

4. Audio 

You may pump up your music while you enjoy the mountains with some helmets that have headphones built into the ear pads with volume and power toggles.

Drop-in kits are available separately from different firms and can be added to Audio Compatible helmets in a variety of ways. The ear pads of helmets that are audio-compatible feature pockets with zippers or Velcro.

The Obex Spin is the best in this category. 

5. Safety certifications

• CE: The CE logo designates the European standard that all helmets must adhere to in order to be marketed there.

• ASTM: The safety requirement that all helmets must achieve or surpass in order to be sold in the American market. The ASTM standards will be met by all helmets sold in the US. Some helmets will also bear the CE marking, indicating that they satisfy both ASTM and CE criteria.

1. What is MIPS?

Multi-Directional Impact Protection System is referred to as MIPS. When a heavy impact occurs, a thin layer of plastic on the interior of a ski helmet allows the helmet to rotate, reducing rotational stresses on the brain. Many companies have created comparable patented technologies that offer the same protection, like SHRED and POC.

2. How often should you replace your ski helmet?

Two to three years after regular wear and tear or after a single harsh impact. After either of these incidents, wearing a helmet may provide less protection.

3. Do I need a ski helmet?

For skiers of all abilities, a correctly fitting helmet is a necessary piece of gear every day. Every skier should take precautions to prevent concussions, and the safety advantages of donning a helmet far outweigh any drawbacks like bulk or discomfort. Check out our buyer's guide to learn more about helmets and how to choose the right one for your individual requirements.

4. How do I store my ski helmet?

Like a good wine, it should be stored in the dark at a constant temperature.

Your helmet may become damaged by extreme temperatures or UV rays. Due to this, you should never leave your helmet in a vehicle that is parked in direct sunlight or at temperatures higher than 60 °C. Avoid placing the helmet close to a heat source, like an oven. In storage, the helmet should also be kept dry.

5. My helmet is damaged after I tumbled. Do I need to replace it?

Absolutely yes! Never wear a helmet that has been in a collision or has damage. A fall can significantly reduce the helmet's protective efficacy, even if no exterior damage is evident.a

The Wildhorn Highline is the best ski helmet we've tested. It’s durable, fashionable, and affordable. That’s probably why the Highline was sold out within the first three weeks of its debut. So don't hesitate and head over to Amazon to grab yours now!

To find out more about other winter sports gears, use the links provided under each one.