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Helmets

Helmets are the brains of the operation!

Helmet technology has come a long way over the years and if you want to enjoy your activities safely, make sure your helmet is sport specific, fits properly and is safety approved by the CSA(Canadian Standards Association) or the CPSC(Consumer Product Safety Commission).

Research shows that one of the most effective ways to reduce head and spinal cord injury is by wearing a helmet.  For example, bicycle helmets reduce brain injury by 88% and reduce facial injury by 65%.  Studies indicate that the bicycle-related head injury declined by 45% in provinces where legislation had been adopted compared to provinces and territories that did not adopt legislation, where there was only a 27% reduction.

Why?

Helmets are there to protect your head and spinal cord.  Despite various designs and requirements, all helmets attempt to protect the user's head and spinal cord through a mechanical energy-absorption process. Therefore, their structure and protective capacity are altered in high-energy impacts. Beside their energy-absorption capability, their volume and weight are also important issues, since higher volume and weight increase the injury risk for the user's head and neck [spinal cord].

Sport Specific

Helmets used for different purposes have different designs. For example, a bike helmet would mainly need to protect against blunt impact forces from the wearer's head striking the road, rock or stump.  A helmet designed for rock climbing, however, would need to protect against objects (e.g. small rocks and climbing equipment) such as an ice axe falling from above.  Find the helmet for ‘your’ activity and wear it properly and proudly!

For example, dirt bike riders spend most of their time doing stunts, racing, riding up steep hills, even ground and rough terrain, the helmet becomes the most important component of a dirt bike safety gear.  Choosing a dirt bike helmet should be based on the degree of protection, safety and comfort it provides.

Fit

Proper fit is very important.  Many helmets worn today are incorrectly fitted.  Have a professional size, fit and inspect your helmet before wearing it for your activity.  They will be able to adjust your helmet for your sport and ensure that you are wearing the safest helmet that is manufactured for your chosen activity.  Once a helmet has had an impact it will not provide protection.  Do not put stickers on your helmet as they hide scratches and dents and you should regularly check for these.

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