Ski and Snowboard Helmet Buyers' Guide

How to Choose the Best Helmet for Downhill Skiing or Snowboarding

Mar 22, 2009

Helmets for skiing and boarding can protect the user against head trauma while on the slopes. With all the options and styles available, there is a helmet for everyone.

Helmets specifically designed for skiing and snowboarding can help reduce head injuries associated with these sports. Once rare, it is increasingly common to see helmets on the slopes. When skiing on hardpack, in the trees, in rocky terrain, or in the backcountry, helmets have proven to be lifesavers, and the use of one is strongly advocated.

Types of Ski and Snowboard Helmets

Most helmets will have a light UV-stabilized polycarbonate outershell protecting an inner polystyrene lining. The inner lining is usually crushable and may be replaceable. Helmets come in three basic styles:

A full shell helmet covers the whole head, while a short shell offers less coverage but is also less bulky. Competition helmets are appropriate for those who plan to race or travel at very high speeds.

Ski Helmet Certification

Most important of all, a helmet should be certified with one of the following certification systems:

These ski- or snowboard-specific helmets are tested for multiple impacts, extreme conditions (especially temperature and moisture) and velocity forces at multiple points of impact. The future will undoubtedly be a multiple-use helmet appropriate for skiing and snowboarding, rock climbing, cycling, surfing, and more, but, at present, it is best to stick to a sport-specific helmet in most situations.

Fitting a Ski or Snowboard Helmet

A good fit is essential when purchasing a ski or snowboard helmet. If the helmet does not fit properly, it may not provide the protection advertised. When buying online, be sure to look at the return policy in case the helmet does not fit and needs to be exchanged. Once the skier or snowboarder finds a good fit, the helmet can be fine-tuned with padding systems that come standard with most helmets.

Not all skulls have the same shape, and so there is a certain amount of subjectivity in sizing a helmet. The properly sized helmet should have a snug fit and not move about when moving one’s head. The helmet should not touch the back of the skier’s or snowboarder’s neck. It is a good idea to have one's ski goggles on hand when trying on helmets to make sure they are compatible.

Ski Helmet Options

Not all ski helmets are built the same. Some, for example, have more ventilation options than others, and the amount of insulation can vary widely. In some cases, the serious skier or snowboarder will want a different helmet for different situations or seasons.

In-helmet sound systems have become popular as of late. Most helmets can have an audio system added after purchase, but an increasing number of skiers and boarders are taking sound systems into account before making a purchase. Wireless systems are generally preferred over wired ones. In some cases, listening to music while skiing or snowboarding can be dangerous to oneself and others on the the slopes.

Ski and snowboard helmets are more fashionable than ever before. A plethora of colors and styles are available, and most people will find a helmet that matches their aesthetic tastes. It is not a good idea to paint or otherwise alter a helmet’s looks, as this can have an impact on the structural integrity of the helmet itself. Stickers, on the other hand, can be a good way to individualize a helmet.

Top Brands of Ski Helmets

Many excellent brands are currently available. Look for Boeri, Bula, Carrera, Giro, Head, K2, POC, Pro-tec, Salomon, Smith, Zamp, and others. Plan to spend between $35 and $150.

The copyright of the article Ski and Snowboard Helmet Buyers' Guide in Winter Sports is owned by Ret Talbot. Permission to republish Ski and Snowboard Helmet Buyers' Guide in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.