#1: Buying a helmet

If you are new to the sport, the options for everything from pedals to helmets can seem endless.  Support new and returning NICA families with our Gear Guide. Visit local shops to try on helmets, if possible.  Don’t forget that NICA coaches receive lots of awesome coach benefits including some deals on helmets.  Check out coach benefits by following these steps.

#2: Replacing a helmet

Even if you don’t crash or damage your helmet, it won’t last forever or maintain the same level of protection for your brain over time.  Helmet manufacturers each have their own guidelines. This blog post from NICA partner Trek explains that even an undamaged helmet  should be replaced after 3 years because the materials can degrade over time.  

A helmet subjected to any impact should be replaced right away. Most helmets are designed to take impacts in a way that can alter the structure.   This change in structure, or damage, may not be visible.  Even dropping a helmet on the hard ground can compromise the helmet’s ability to protect your brain from injury.

#3: Wearing a helmet

Helmet fit checks are as important as bike checks at a NICA practice. This video from Trek shows how to choose the proper helmet size, as well as how to ensure a good fit. These three steps cover helmet fit for a prepractice check.

1. Position the helmet so it is level on the head – no more than two finger-widths of forehead should be exposed
2. Adjust the straps so they form a V just below the ear and the chin strap so only one finger can fit snugly between strap and chin
3. Ensure the helmet fits snug by adjusting the tension on the back of the helmet, when applicable

The right helmet, a proper fit, and timely replacements are all key to maintaining brain health, enjoying the sport safely, and creating lifelong cyclists!