Ski Helmets - Safety and Comfort

A clear and concise summary of the advantages of different helmets and why we should all be wearing them.

By Robert Gagnon

In the last few years we’ve seen more and more skiers and snowboarders of every ability level wearing helmets. Initially it was mandatory for kids under 12 to wear a helmet for ski lessons but now it has become ore common sense to do so at any level. Whistler Blackcomb Ski and Snowboard school asks their ski and snowboard instructors to wear a helmet if they teach the kids under 16 year old, go to the terrain park or have to coach on a race course. Every participant in these lessons has to wear a ski helmet, no exception. In few years it is possible that resorts will require that helmets be mandatory. It’s for your safety. You never know when and where you will fall or hit something or someone. Many helmets out there are more than just good looking.

A reason that many skiers don’t like to wear a helmet is the lack of comfort.  Sometimes the helmets we try are made for certain standard and general shapes and don’t fit our head shape.  It becomes hard to find the right fit.  You need to find one that you will be able to keep on for several hours in the same day. It can be comfortable for the 3 minutes you put it on at the ski shop but it’s possible that you will feel some pressure points after a few runs. It’s really important to get the right fit. New technologies in 2010 helmets series have been developed to improve this and make you feel comfortable without compromise. 

Salomon Ranger Custom air fit

Consider the Salomon Ranger Custom air fit system. The system works with an integrated air cushion that you can adjust with a pump button under the ear pads. This technology allows a perfect fit for your head. You can release the air pressure with another button if the helmet becomes too tight. The Ranger has some extra features like the washable liner. You can easily remove the liners and wash them without damaging them or changing their shape. The 3 position air ventilation will keep your head cool or warm as you need. You can remove the ear pads if that is your preference. 

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	Giro G10M

Giro G10MX is a great deal with its versatility and price. You can remove the visor. The G10 has been in the market for few years now and is still a great seller.  The improvement in the ventilation system has been really demonstrated with the thermostat control. You can easily customize the airflow from a little button on the outside part of the helmet. The G10MX is probably the easiest and fastest ventilation system to adjust. Other adjustments will allow you to fit your helmet and goggle without taking off your gloves.

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Smith X Troy Lee

Light materials like carbon, Aramid and Fiberglas are used in the full face helmet from Smith Optics.  X Troy Lee Design is really popular with the big mountain skiers. The composite makes these ski and snowboard helmets light enough to be comfortable and fully protected.  Many pros use this one for their extreme line and backcountry adventures. The X troy Lee Design has 4 vent traps and exhaust to keep your head at the right temperature.  You can wash the MX padded liners and they are interchangeable. This is the right buy for skiers and riders who like to go on advanced and extreme terrain.

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Kids ski helmets

	Boeri Kids Helmets

The safety of the kids on the slope is really important. Kids should always have a helmet on. This is the first responsibility of the parents to ensure their kids wear a helmet at any level. Most of the ski resorts have rental shops that offer helmets, sometime for free if they rent the equipment or are taking lessons.  Boeri is one of the many companies that design helmets for kids. Safety is the prime objective but they have to look good too. Kids can choose from a multitude of color and categories. You can find examples of helmet covers at helmetzoo.com.

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Here’s a brief checklist to use when you choose your helmet

• the comfort  (gap and  pressure point)
• the ventilation (adjustment)
• washable liner,
• an attachment  on the back for your goggles
• adjustment to fit your head
• the weight
• one shock or multi shocks
• guarantee
• proper size (don’t buy bigger thinking it will be more comfortable)
• use of it (level, terrain, weather condition)
• comfort of the neck strap, easy to clip with gloves on
• music and other special features

 If you are looking for the perfect gift for the winter holiday, think about a ski or snowboard helmet. It’s a great idea to protect those you love. Ski safe and in comfort!

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