How to choose a ski or snowboard helmet?

The risk of collisions on the slopes is high. You can fall, crash into obstacles, or collide with another skier. Regardless of the discipline, the chosen route, or your skill level, wearing a protective helmet reduces the likelihood of accidents. Unlike a cap or a hat, several factors must be considered when choosing a ski or snowboard helmet. Understanding these criteria is therefore essential.

Understanding the Construction of a Protective Helmet

A snowboard helmet is made up of several layers: the inner comfort lining composed of various foams, the <strong>"safety shell"</strong> made using different processes, and the outer covering (aesthetic appearance).

The In-Mold design fuses the two layers. It improves lightness and distributes impact forces, but its lifespan is shorter.

Shell and Protection Technologies

ABS Shell : hard plastic shell, very resistant to impacts.
In-Mold Shell : lightweight construction with good impact absorption.
Hybrid Shell : combines ABS and In-Mold for an ideal balance between strength and comfort.
Koroyd : honeycomb material that optimizes ventilation and impact absorption.
MIPS : system that reduces rotational forces in case of an angled impact.

Snowboard helmet: choosing the right size

A helmet that is too large or too small limits comfort and compromises protection. Knowing your head circumference helps select a proper helmet. To measure it, use a tape measure around your head, making sure it passes over your ears and eyebrows.

Generally, you will get a value between 50 and 65 cm. If you do not have a tape measure, a small rope or shoelace will suffice. The procedure remains the same. Then, measure the length obtained with a ruler.

Place the helmet on your head, fasten the chin strap snugly, and tighten the rear dial if the helmet has one.

Shake your head; the helmet should stay in place without moving too much. A model under 55 cm is considered Small, while one over 59 cm is Large. A quick try-on is necessary. When wearing the helmet, you should feel no pressure, especially on the forehead and temples.

Helmet ventilation: an important criterion

Temperature inside the helmet will rise the longer you stay on the slopes. “Keeping a cool head” is essential. Manufacturers have added vents for this purpose. They help regulate heat.

The number of vents varies by model. To maximize airflow, some ranges feature more than 8 openings. An adjustable ventilation system lets you control airflow according to weather conditions. When temperatures are very low, being able to close the vents is essential.

Key points to check before choosing a helmet

Many modern helmets include a visor. It protects your eyes from wind and is also suitable for those who wear prescription glasses. If you prefer a helmet without a visor, ski goggles are a better option than sun visors.

hey often have photochromic visors that adjust to light conditions.

Towards a generalization of these new features?

Some options are rare but essential for those practicing slalom skiing with chin guards, sometimes included or optional.

Finally, some manufacturers focus on entertainment by offering versions with built-in headphones. You can then descend the slopes while listening to your favorite music. However, care must be taken that they do not become a source of distraction.

Helmet sizes by brand (Indicative)

Size	Circumference (cm)	Equivalent (Brand 1)	Circumference (cm)	Equivalent (Brand 2)	Circumference (cm)
M	54-56 cm	M/L	54-58 cm	S/M	52-55 cm
L	56-58 cm	L/XL	59-63 cm	M/L	55-59 cm
XL	58-60 cm	-	-	L/XL	59-63 cm
XXL	60-62 cm	-	-	-	-