Mountain biking is an exciting and challenging way to explore the outdoors. A helmet is an essential piece of safety gear for any cyclist, but it’s even more important for mountain bikers. Whether you are just starting out or a seasoned pro, the right helmet can help protect you from serious injury in the event of a crash.
When selecting a helmet, it’s important to consider the type of riding you will be doing. For downhill mountain biking, full-face helmets offer the best protection due to their coverage of the entire head and face.
These helmets also feature additional padding and straps for a snug fit, as well as visors to protect from debris and direct sunlight. For cross-country or trail riding, a lightweight half-shell helmet is usually sufficient. Half-shell helmets are generally less expensive than full-face models, and they are more ventilated and comfortable in warmer weather conditions.
In addition to style, fit is also an important factor when selecting a mountain bike helmet. Helmets should fit snugly without being too tight.
The cheek pads should not press against your face too firmly, and the chin strap should be adjusted so that it fits comfortably under your chin without pressing against your throat. Look for helmets with adjustable straps so that you can get an exact fit every time you ride.
Safety Ratings
Most bike helmets comply with safety standards set by organizations such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM). Look for helmets with labels indicating that they meet CPSC or ASTM standards so that you know they have been tested for safety in real life impact situations.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right mountain bike helmet is an important decision that can help keep you safe on the trails. Consider the type of riding you’ll be doing when selecting a helmet, as well as its size and fit. Look for helmets that meet safety standards set by organizations such as CPSC or ASTM to ensure they have been tested rigorously.
Conclusion: When looking at what helmet to wear while mountain biking its best to look at what type of riding will be done (downhill vs cross-country/trail), size/fit of the helmet, safety ratings (CPSC or ASTM), and any additional features like visors or extra padding if desired. By considering these factors one can ensure they will have proper protection while on their next mountain biking adventure!
