Do You Need A New Helmet?

When Is It Time To Replace Your Old Helmet?

But we should remember why we wear helmets in the first place. Protecting that all-important noggin. Now, obviously, if you have been in a crash, or if the helmet is in two pieces, you will have to get yourself a new one. But maybe you haven't considered one of the reasons on this list. Be informed. Be safe.

1. Helmet manufacturers recommend replacing helmets every five years. 

And it's not so they can sell a bunch of new ones. It's because the materials in a helmet break down over that time causing the helmet to lose some of it's impact-absorbing ability, which means in a crash, you're at risk!

2. Helmets are constantly improving. 

Today's designs are drastically superior to those we were wearing just a few years ago. Helmet manufacturers have engineered features like better cooling vents, feathery weight, and extra protection against concussions, all of which make it worthwhile to upgrade regularly.

3. Significant Accidents or Falls

EPS foam is made to compress upon heavy impact. This disperses the force of the impact sothat the helmet, not your skull, is taking the brunt of the blow. However, EPS foam does not completely regain its shape after a major impact. The bottom line from every source is that, if the helmet has been in an accident, replace it, even if it does not look damaged.

4. The outside is just foam or cloth instead of plastic, or it doesnt have a CPSC, ASTM or Snell sticker inside, or you just can't get it to fit!

Obviously foam and cloth are not protective enough, but there are still some helmets floating around out there that aren't up to the safety code that manufacturers established in the 1990s. And anything that doesn't fit is probably not good for your ride.

 

5. It's not a cycling helmet

It's a good idea to wear a different helmet for each sport you participate in. If you skateboard, or do some activity where you crash regularly, you may not want to wear that helmet for cycling, as it could be less prepared for the types of falls that can occur when riding.

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