With the realization that you can get hurt pretty badly while snowboarding, the importance of using helmets every time you’re out on the slopes goes without saying. Snowboarding helmets, just like any other kind, such as
ski helmets, have undergone a lot of advancements and upgrades to what they are today. It’s now very easy to get a helmet that fits properly, is lightweight and offers utmost protection to your head in case of an incident.
Additionally, the best snowboarding helmet is what you need to protect yourself from falls that could cause injury and even brain damage. They also provide you with warmth you’ll appreciate while in the snow. A helmet is not the reserve of extreme racers and snowboarders, but of every snowboarder to stay safe.
Snowboarding helmets are now lightweight and comfortable, meaning you won’t have to worry about reduced performance once you hit the slopes. With the advancements in snowboarding helmets, you’ll also be able to have your
goggles held in place, and you’ll have the ability to communicate easily using audio equipment. There are many more benefits you’ll enjoy when you use a snowboarding helmet.
Helmets are not only meant for men, but also women and kids. Getting the perfect size is easy because snowboarding helmets come in different sizes, with some having the ability to adjust their sizes for a snug and more protective fit. Although you can engage in snowboarding for fun, it also makes a perfect
fitness and sports activity, as long as you have on the right protective gear.
Price
The price of a snowboarding helmet depends on its construction and the features it comes with to enhance your safety. Since not all helmets are made equal, investing in a good one is essential for a safe and long snowboarding experience. Cheap snowboarding helmets available on the market might lack critical features, and most come as single-impact helmets; this means that after they save you from an accident they’re rendered unusable.
Since snowboarding is a risky sport, protecting yourself is of great importance. Therefore, you should avoid poor-quality helmets that either won’t last or might compromise your health if an accident occurs. You’ll find a decent snowboarding helmet of good quality for about $30 to $50. High-end models for use in extreme snowboarding might cost more.
Features
The most important feature to look out for in a certified helmet is size. You should ensure your helmet fits properly on your head so it stays on in any kind of collision. Some helmets come with the ability to customize the fit so it fits snugly and comfortably as required. You also have the option of choosing a color of your liking based on personal preferences and personality. Consider a color that matches your snowboarding outfit for an enhanced appeal.
Here are some features you should look for in your snowboarding helmet:
- Certified standards on the helmet for safety
- The right helmet size to fit your head
- The ability to adjust the helmet size for a comfortable fit
- Enough air vents for proper ventilation
- Goggle straps and clips to hold your goggles in place while in use
- Removable ear pads for added comfort
- Removable liner for easy cleaning
- Breathable interior padding for comfort and air circulation
- Moisture wicking and microbial liner to absorb sweat and keep germs away
- Ability to mount a camera to record your moves
- Materials used to make the helmet for durable use
With the right snowboarding helmet, you can enjoy your favorite sport or hobby without worrying about getting injured in case of a fall.
Construction and Design
Whether you’re a beginning snowboarder or a seasoned one, you need to protect your head from injuries by wearing a good helmet. The following factors will help you pick a good snowboarding helmet for you:
Type – Snowboarding helmets are available on the market in two main types, although there are other rare types. The first common kind of snowboarding helmet is the hard shell helmet. These are made by attaching the inner shock-absorbing material, usually EPS foam, to a hard outer shell, usually made of ABS plastic. These helmets provide durability and good protection from the everyday knocks you’ll be subjected to as a snowboarder.
The second common type of snowboarding helmet is the in-mould helmet. These are made by fusing the shell and the lining foam together. The end product of this infusion is a helmet that’s much lighter. Although these helmets are highly protective, look out for a certification stamp to assure you of its quality.
Interior Pads – The interior padding of a snowboarding helmet is also important because it absorbs shock and keeps it away from your head in case of an impact. The padding should be made of a material that’s forgiving to the head. EPS foam is the most commonly used padding material in snowboarding helmets. The padding also offers comfort, warmth and breathability. It should have a liner that’s flush, removable and washable so your helmet stays fresh and clean always.
Color – While choosing a snowboarding helmet, bright colors are recommended because they make you more visible, even when far away or when visibility is low. Some helmets might have a reflective strip or color to enhance this. Choose a helmet that makes it easy to identify you. Also, you might want a color theme for your snowboards, as snowboarding helmets are available in various colors.
Ventilation – Air vents are also important because they regulate the temperatures inside your helmet. Due to a helmet’s thick padding and lining, it can easily become hot on the inside, making it uncomfortable. Ventilation helps to get rid of the hot air and circulate fresh air inside your helmet. Look for a helmet with enough fixed and adjustable vents that can be used for those moments when you need more air.
Design – The most common design of snowboarding helmets is the half shell design. It’s the most popular among snowboarders because it’s stylish and gives a better experience with the helmet. The half shell helmet comes with removable ear pads you can take off for enhanced hearing. It also allows you to use other listening and audio devices with the helmet because your ears will be free.
Another design of snowboarding helmets is the full shell, a traditional helmet. It comes with a complete shell passing over the ears with the ability to inhibit hearing. This helmet is mostly used by racers in competitions for enhanced safety. The last design is the full face, which is a full shell helmet with a visor and a chin guard so even the face is completely covered by the helmet.
Performance and Ease of Use
You can get maximum protection when snowboarding by getting yourself a perfectly fitting helmet. If it’s too loose, it can be knocked off easily on impact, leaving you exposed. The vents allow air to circulate inside the helmet, keeping you comfortable, while a removable and washable liner keeps you fresh; you’ll want your helmet to have these two features. For enhanced safety, you should go for a helmet built to offer multidirectional protection.
Store your helmet in a storage case if it came in one, and keep the liner clean and dry all the time. Ensure that the chin strap’s clasps and clips are not broken or spoilt so your helmet always stays on your head. Choose a color of your liking to match your outfit for an appealing look.
Before buying a snowboarding helmet, make sure that you know exactly what size you want and set your budget. Also, the color of the helmet will set you apart from the crowd on the slope or mountain, so make sure you pick a color that fits your style. Let's begin with a popular model from Giro!
Remember that snowboarding or skiing without a helmet is very dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. These five helmets have been designed by experts to provide you with utmost protection and safety. They are also quite comfortable too, so get one and you’ll have more peace of mind!
