Kids' Bicycle Helmets and Getting a Good Fit
Tips on Selecting the Best Fitting Children's Bike Helmet
Jun 28, 2009
The fact is that though bicycle helmets prevent injury, a poorly fitting or improperly worn helmet will not do the job of protecting kids as effectively as a well-chosen helmet. By avoiding several common mistakes, parents can better avoid those panicked trips to the emergency room.
Helmets Must be Level
When placing the helmet on the head, it should not be angled or tipped back. As the child looks straight ahead, the helmet should be parallel to the ground. The helmet should cover the forehead and rest just above the eyebrows.
Knowing Which is the Front and Back
Though it may seem obvious that helmets should not be worn backwards, for helmets that are not marked with front and back labels, it can be hard to know which end goes where. A hint that works for most helmets is to check the straps. Most helmets have one of the straps anchored toward the back of the head.
Snug Fitting Offers Greatest Protection
Helmets should not be able to move front to back or side to side. To test the fit, have the child see if he can slide a finger underneath the helmet at both sides of his temple. If he can, parents should opt for a size smaller, or purchase fit pads, padding that velcros to the inside of the helmet, to improve the fit.
Position the Straps Properly
The rear straps and front straps should meet together in a “V” formation. The two straps should meet just in front of the child’s earlobes. The chin strap should be adjusted last. Keeping the head level to the ground, the child should open his mouth as wide as he can. When he does, the secured chin strap should pull on the helmet, forcing the helmet to move down slightly. To prevent the strap from moving, a rubber band can be wound around the strap to secure it in place.
Rear Stabilizers Help Keep it Positioned
If the parents have not yet purchased a helmet, they should strongly consider purchasing one that has a rear stabilizer. Rear stabilizers offer an additional strap that supports the helmet at the back of the head. This helps keep the helmet positioned properly.
Recheck the Fit Periodically
Over time as the helmet is worn and as the child grows, adjustments to the fit will need to be made or a bigger size helmet will need to be purchased. Parents should not assume that the straps will not move or underestimate how rapidly their child grows. Always be sure to check the manufacturer's sizing recommendations, as sizing varies between brands.
Though any helmet is better than no helmet at all, the best helmets are ones that are sized correctly, fitted properly, and worn comfortably. Head injuries can best be prevented when parents inspect the helmet for those aspects. With just a little bit of attention spent on investigating those details, perhaps parents can save themselves the fear and anxiety caused by an unfortunate biking accident.
 |
