Has your bike has been in hibernation over the winter? With the Spring sun now making a welcome appearance it's time to get back on the saddle and probably time to think about investing in a new helmet too.
There is no hard and fast rule, but it is recommended your helmet should be replaced at least every 3-5 years.
Bike helmets are commonly made from expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) which soft padding and a polycarbonate shell. The hard shell is designed to spread the force of any impact while the soft liner absorbs the energy.
Regular use will certainly expose your helmet to oil from your hair, sweat and sunblock which can cause the helmet to degrade. UV rays affect the shell of the helmet, which can become brittle with time. Helmet manufacturers suggest you keep your helmet in a cool, dark place when not in use.
If you don’t use your helmet or bike that often, you may still have to replace it because innovations are making the world safer. As such, a bike helmet that you bought five years ago but have never worn will not be as safe as one that was produced yesterday as the development of safer bike helmets is an ongoing process.
A brand-new helmet is likely to be a better helmet in general. It’s probably lighter and better ventilated, with a better fit and made from better materials, and it will quite possibly also make you look cooler.
Of course, you should also replace your helmet if you have even a small tumble because even a tiny amount of impact could compromise the helmets performance, even if no damage is visible. We also recommend if you have dropped your helmet onto a hard surface (even if just from a low height), it should be replaced.
There are many things you can do to maximise the lifespan of your helmet, storing it in a safe dry place out of direct sunlight, keeping it clean, only washing with mild soap and water, plus making sure it doesn’t get too hot or cold when not in use.
It’s recommended to inspect your helmet for damage regularly, some significant signs to look out for are the EPS looking chipped or worn, parts missing from the edges, checking inside for hidden damage, any cracks in the vents, or the EPS separating.
The best helmet isn't necessarily the one that looks cool; it's the one you're most likely to wear. If it looks brilliant but feels uncomfortable or gets too hot, you're less likely to keep it on your head.
The most important things to think about when you buy a helmet are:
If you are choosing a helmet in store our experienced team will help you find the perfect helmet for you.
If you're looking for a helmet with maximum protection, look out for the MIPS range (Multi-directional Impact Protection) this system offers safety against rotational forces. MIPS is engineered to add at least 10% extra safety to the standard construction of helmets in case of specific impacts.
We have wide range of helmets online and in-store, helmets for adults start at £36.99.
