Buying Guide for Snow Sport Helmets
Winter sports helmets are specifically designed and constructed for skiing and other winter sports. Snow helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries for child skiers and snowboarders by almost half. Snowmobilers, ice skaters, sledders, and hockey players are also less likely to suffer head injuries when wearing helmets. Children are also kept warm while playing winter sports with helmets.
A snow helmet has specific features such as ear protection, moisture-wicking liners, and temperature-sensitive materials. The shell of the helmet protects the head against objects such as sharp objects, knocks, and abrasions typically made of ABS high-impact plastic.
Benefits of Snow Sports Helmets
Vents
Vents allow cool air to enter and warm, sweaty air to leave. The airflow of some helmets can be adjusted by removing the removable plugs. Vents that can be adjusted are preferable. You can easily adjust the airflow level by pressing a lever and not interrupting your ride.
Audio
Snow helmets that have built-in speakers allow you to listen to your MP3 player, cell phone, or 2-way radio. With others, you just need earbuds to get started.
Liners
You can customize how much warmth you need with removable ear pads and drop liners. After a sweaty day on the mountain, removable liners can be washed. This makes them easy to maintain to use every time you wear them.
Features
The majority of helmets allow you to attach your goggles directly, but they do so in various ways. They have hinges that allow you to use various ski accessories like ear muffs and goggles conveniently.
Factors to Consider before Buying Snow Sports Helmets
Certification
Certified snow helmets are safe to use and will protect you well against injuries. Select a helmet specifically designed for snow sports. Consider helmets that meet ASTM F2040, Snell RS-98, S-98, or CEN 1077 standards.
Fit
Fit is of utmost importance. Obtain the help of a salesperson when choosing and fitting a helmet for your child. Be sure your child's goggles are compatible with the helmet you select. If you are buying online read the product description online or check the size chart well before buying.
Shell
Shells, or exterior layers of helmets, are rigid surfaces typically ABS high-impact plastics that protect the head from sharp objects, knocks, and abrasions. During a fall, this enables the helmet to distribute impact energy evenly over a greater area.
Inner Liners
Styrofoam® looks like EPS foam, which is what the snow helmets are lined with. The foam absorbs shock when it hits an object. As a result of a hard fall, the liner foam may become compressed, a condition that may or may not be noticeable. It is always advisable to thus, buy one that have inner liners for better protection.
Conclusion
When skiing, you should definitely wear a helmet. Helmets can help protect you from cuts and bruises, such as those caused by tree branches, but also from severe head injuries like concussions, fractured skulls, and even death. Helmets sold by REI are certified to the most common U.S. standard for snow helmets, ASTM F2040. Remember, though, that helmets are valuable but not invincible, and they offer limited protection. To know more, look through our buying options. We review and recommend the leading snow helmets based on size, quality, and comfort.
