Landry's Guide to Bicycle Helmets
Whether you're riding on the road, tackling mountain trails, or commuting to work, the right helmet is essential for safety and comfort. At Landry's Bicycles, we want to help you choose the best helmet for your needs.
Find Your Perfect Helmet
Why wear a helmet?
Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injuries. A well-fitted helmet ensures maximum protection and comfort, allowing you to focus on enjoying your ride. Along with added safety, Massachusetts law requires anyone 16 years old or younger riding a bicycle to wear a helmet.
Helmets have expiration dates.
It might come as a surprise, but helmets have expiration dates! When you look inside your helmet, it will have a manufacturing date, and depending on the brand, most helmets are recommended to be replaced every three to five years. This is because the materials your helmet is made out of can degrade over time and could impact the helmet's ability to perform during a crash. If your helmet is three years old or older, it is reccomended to replace it with a new model.
After a crash.
Helmets are like an insurance policy; you need to wear one, but we hope you never use it. If you have taken a fall while wearing your helmet, it is time to replace it. Bicycle helmets are "one-time use," and in many cases, you can see the cracks or dents in your helmet after a fall — a sign it did its job, but even if you don't, we strongly advise you to replace your helmet to ensure your riding with the upmost safety.
Types of Helmets
Road
- Design: Lightweight, aerodynamic, with ample ventilation.
- Ideal For: Road cycling, racing, long-distance riding.
Mountain
- Design: Enhanced protection, visors, and more coverage.
- Ideal For: Mountain biking, trail riding, off-road adventures.
Commuter
- Design: Versatile, with integrated lights and reflective elements.
- Ideal For: Urban commuting, casual riding.
Kids'
- Design: Smaller sizes, vibrant designs, high safety standards.
- Ideal For: Children of all ages.
Key Features to Consider
Fit and Comfort
- Size and Adjustment Systems: Ensure the helmet fits snugly without being too tight.
- Padding and Ventilation: Look for removable, washable padding and adequate ventilation for comfort.
Weight & Aerodynamics
- A lightweight helmet can enhance comfort, especially on long rides.
- Many helmets are optimized to reduce drag and improve performance.
Visibility and Reflectivity
Helmets with reflective elements or integrated lights improve safety in low-light conditions.
Style and Design
Choose a helmet that matches your personal style and preferences.
Additional Safety Features
MIPS Technology
Originally developed by a brain surgeon and a biomechanics scientist, the Mips® Safety System has revolutionized the world of helmet safety. By complementing the helmet with a low-friction layer, designed to move slightly in the event of an impact, the system is designed to help redirect rotational motion away from the head aiding in reducing the risk of brain injury.
WaveCel Technology
WaveCel behaves like a network of hundreds of interconnected shock absorbers connecting your head and the outer shell of the helmet. It distributes the impact energy through its network of cells. It absorbs impact forces like the crumple zone of a car. It diverts rotational forces by flexing and gliding.
How Should a Helmet Fit?
Measure for Size: Use a cloth measuring tape around the widest part of your head. Match your measurements to the helmet size chart. If between sizes, size up. The helmet should sit level and snug, about two fingers width above your eyebrows.
Adjust the Rear Fit System: Adjust the fit system at the back of the helmet to ensure it sits level. Most systems tighten clockwise and loosen counterclockwise.
Strap Dividers: The helmet’s straps should form a “V” around your ears. Adjust the dividers below the ears, and ensure the straps lie flat against your head.
Chin Strap: Fasten the chin strap and ensure it clicks shut. Adjust it to leave just enough room for one finger between the strap and your chin. Excess strap can be tucked away or trimmed and sealed to prevent fraying.
These steps will help ensure a proper and secure helmet fit for safe riding.
