Ski Helmets Buying Guide

Here's a fun fact for all of you skiers  out there: supposedly 44% of you wear a helmet  every time you hit the slopes, 42% intend to wear a helmet the next time they ski  but never actually get around to it, and the remaining percent have no interest in wearing a ski helmet  whatsoever.  Yikes.  With this being said, we would like to recommend that you invest in this essential piece of equipment, as many serious sports injuries could be prevented simply with a little protection.  Though almost half of skiers do wear a helmet already, it is important that you have the right size and right fit for you... and if you are one of those skiers who lacks the helmet, then you have some shopping to do. 

Sizing

1. Measure  the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows, as the front of the helmet should align with your brows. 
2. Keep in mind that there should be no gaps between your head and the helmet lining ; the back of the helmet should never touch the back of your neck.  

 Determining Your Helmet Size

Ski Helmet Styles

There are a few different styles of ski helmets available to you, and most are interchangeable for skiers and snowboarders.   Select your preference based upon what type of skiing you will be doing as well as the terrain that you plan to ski on, and be sure to find out if the helmet meets European standards.        

Full Shell  This shell provides complete coverage and seals out the wind, precipitation, and other elements encountered on the slopes.  Some are even ventilated!   Recommended for: Those planning to show off some fancy tricks or fly down the slopes.	Short Shell  These helmets offer the same kind of protection and coverage as a full shell, but with a less constrictive feel.  Many include venting  and some sort of comfortable removable liner.    Recommended for: Those who want protection with more comfort and less restraint.	Competition  These helmets feature densely padded lining  for extra protection along with add-on jaw pieces  for higher speed events.  Recommended for: The serious skier.  Those who ski for recreation may find this style will be a little bit too much for them.	Youth  These helmets offer serious protection, but are proportioned for smaller heads.  Look for the same safety standards as adult helmets along with removable padding  that will adjust to a child's growing size.  Recommended for: Kids!

Shop By Brand

• Alpina 
• Blade 
• Bolle 
• Burton/Red 
• Dainese 
• Demon 
• Giro 
• K2 
• Protec 
• Quicksilver 
• Salomon 
• Scott 
• Sinner 
• Uvex 

Related Guides

Poles	Boots	Bindings	Jackets	Goggles

External Links

• JasminAlpine.co.uk: Safety information for all skiers to read.
• Kit2Fit.com: A ski helmet sizing guide with elaborate details and information. 
• Wikipedia.org: Learn about helmet safety standards and how they come to get their ratings.