How to choose a safe cycling helmet: “More expensive is not always better”
Using a cycling helmet while out on the road with your bike is the safe and sensible option. But what should you look out for when choosing a cycling helmet? What size helmet should you buy and are more expensive helmets always better? VRT Radio 2’s consumer affairs programme WinWin spoke to Kishan Vandael-Schreurs of the road safety institute Vias. He provided listeners with some invaluable advice to help them choose a helmet that will best protect them when they are out cycling.
Size matters
Above all a bicycle helmet needs fit properly. It should not be too small, but not too big either. If a helmet is too big "There is a chance that it will move out of position if you fall off your bike. You would still bang your head on the ground, which defies the point of having a helmet in the first place", Mr Vandael-Schreurs said.
But how do you determine the right size? "By accurately measuring the circumference of your head, for example by using a tape measure." It's best to place the tape measure about 2 cm above your eyebrows.
Like with some clothing, the size of a bicycle helmet is often defined as being “S, M, L, etc”. Based on the circumference of your head, the size chart below shows exactly which size you will need.
Adult size (circumference in cm)*
53/54 = XS
55/56 = S
57/58 = M
59/60 = L
61/62 = XL
63/64 = XXL
* If the size differs, as is the case with certain manufacturers’ helmets, this with be indicated on the packaging.
You can of course try the helmet on in the shop before buying it. "Put the helmet on your head without fastening the straps and move your head. If the helmet is too big, it will move a lot and even sag. A helmet that is too small feels too tight too and can cause mild headaches after a while."
"If the helmet fits correctly you will be able to fit between 1 and 2 fingers between the rim and your eyebrows. You can do a little fine tuning later by adjusting the straps."
Look at the label
Most products sold in the EU have a CE label and cycle helmets are no exception. The CE Label shows that a product complies with European health and safety norms and is compliant with environment protection rules.
However, in addition to a CE label cycle helmets have an additional label that shows that they are compliant with EU safety norms. If you are purchasing a cycle helmet for an adult you need to look for EN 1078 on the label. This is EN 1080 if the helmet is intended for a child.