The helmet has become an essential piece of protective equipment for skiing and snowboarding. In the event of a fall, it's better to be well protected regardless of your age or level. What are the key factors to consider when buying a ski helmet?
Choosing a helmet that fits your head
Measuring your head circumference is essential. To do so, use a tape measure, placing it 1 cm above the eyebrow ridge and just above the ears.
Adult helmet sizes:
- S: 53 to 56 cm
- M: 56 to 59 cm
- L: 59 to 62 cm
- XL: 62 to 64 cm
Children's helmet sizes:
- XS: 44 to 47 cm
- S: 48 to 52 cm
- M: 53 to 56 cm
When the helmet is the right size, the adjustment system should retain some margin for adjustment. That is, it should be neither fully tightened nor completely loosened, so that you feel both comfortable and well supported. Trying several helmet models is essential to ensure the best level of comfort and safety.
5 key criteria for choosing the right helmet
Weight: for greater comfort, your helmet must be lightweight. With In-Mold technology, these helmets fall into the ultra-lightweight category. In terms of weight, under 400 grams puts you in the featherweight bracket. As a general rule, it's advisable not to exceed 550 grams.
The fit: the front should sit approximately one finger's width above the eyebrows, leaving room for a goggle. For safety, the back of the helmet should not touch the neck when you tilt your head back. You should feel no pressure points, pain, or discomfort.
Foam quality: it's important to choose wisely. EPP foam (expanded polypropylene) returns to its shape after an impact and provides good shock protection.
Ventilation: depending on the helmet, you may have the option to manually adjust the ventilation system — that is, to open or close certain vents according to weather conditions and your level of perspiration. From 4 vents onwards, you benefit from optimal ventilation.
The standard: a helmet designed for winter sports must bear the NF (or CE) EN 1077 standard, specific to ski and snowboarding helmets.
The different outer shells
- ABS
ABS construction is the most common. It is found in the majority of ski helmets, as it offers optimum impact resistance. It consists of two parts: the outer hard ABS plastic shell and the inner expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam. The ABS provides impact protection while the lining ensures thermal insulation. This last point can become a drawback: ventilation is not always ideal. That's why, if you opt for an ABS helmet, you should make sure it has plenty of vents.
- IN MOLD
The premium option, In-Mold technology produces a helmet moulded in a single piece, making it more lightweight than ABS. This also offers better impact distribution across the entire helmet, meaning greater safety and a reduced risk of head trauma. The outer shell is this time made from PC (polycarbonate), directly moulded with the inner EPS foam.
- HYBRID
Finally, the hybrid construction combines the best of both helmets: an ABS injected shell on the top of the helmet to maximise impact resistance, and a polycarbonate shell at the front and back to keep it as lightweight as possible. Robust and durable over time, this option requires a higher budget. The ABS shell is highly resistant and increases protection against penetration by external objects (branches, rocks, etc.) — a major consideration when freeriding. To add a little lightness to the helmet, a secondary In-Mold shell protects the lower part of the skull.
Caring for your helmet
To make cleaning easier and maintain the hygiene of your ski helmet, opt for a model with removable and washable inner covers and lining.
To summarise: for occasional ski trips, an ABS helmet perfectly fulfils its protective role. For more intensive and/or more regular sessions, weight and comfort become important criteria — opt for an In-Mold or Hybrid helmet.
