Bike helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment for cyclists of all ages, but they're especially crucial for kids. In fact, many states have laws mandating that kids under a certain age wear helmets when riding bikes. However, knowing what to look for can be challenging with so many different types of helmets on the market. Here's a guide to everything you need to know about buying a bike helmet for kids.
Ultimate Guide to Youth Helmets
Ultimate Guide to Youth Helmets
Getting the Right Fit for Youth Helmets
One of the most crucial factors to consider when buying a bike helmet for your child is fit. A properly fitting helmet will sit snugly on your child's head, with the chin strap snug against their chin. The helmet should not be able to move around on the head and should not tilt back or forward. To ensure a good fit, measure your child's head circumference and use this measurement to select the appropriate helmet size.
Types of Youth Helmets
Several types of youth helmets are on the market, each designed for a specific activity. For kids, the most common types of helmets are:
Bike helmets: These helmets are lightweight and aerodynamic. They undergo rigorous testing to protect your child in a crash.
Winter sports helmets: These helmets provide extra coverage and protection for winter sports while keeping your head warm.
Multi-sport helmets: These helmets are appropriate for a variety of activities, including biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading.
Safety Standards
When buying a helmet for your child, it's essential to look for one that meets safety standards. The two most common safety standards for bike helmets are the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standard and the European Union standards. Both of these standards ensure that the helmet meets minimum safety requirements.
Various safety standards exist for youth bicycle helmets to ensure adequate protection against head injuries in an accident. The most common standards are:
- CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission): This is the standard mandated by the US government for all helmets sold in the country. CPSC sets the minimum impact resistance requirements for helmets, testing durability, retention system strength, and other criteria.
- European Union: The European Union has its own set of helmet standards, such as EN 1078 and EN 1077B.
When purchasing a youth bicycle helmet, you should ensure that it meets at least one of these safety standards to know it provides adequate protection. Additionally, it would be best to verify that the helmet fits properly, is adjusted correctly, and is used correctly to maximize its effectiveness.
Features
Some bike helmets come with additional features that can enhance safety and comfort, including:
- Ventilation: A well-ventilated helmet can cool your child's head on hot days.
- Visors: Visors can provide extra shade and protect your child's eyes from the sun.
- Light compatibility: The ability to attach a light to the helmet can add visibility.
Cost
Bike helmets can vary widely in price, with some costing as little as $20 and others costing upwards of $200. While buying a cheaper helmet is tempting, it's important to remember that safety should always be a top priority. So look for a helmet that meets safety standards and fits your child correctly, regardless of the cost.
Replacement
Finally, it's important to remember that bike helmets are not designed to last forever. Over time, the materials in the helmet can break down, reducing its ability to protect your child's head. That's why you should replace your child's helmet every five years or immediately after a crash.
Bern's Youth Helmets
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when choosing a bike helmet for your child. Look for a helmet that fits well, meets safety standards, and has any additional features you think your child will need. With the right helmet, your child can enjoy sports all year round, safely and comfortably.
Here are some reasons why Bern's Youth Helmets can be a suitable choice for children:
Safety features
Bern's Youth Helmets meet industry safety standards for cycling and other outdoor activities. They have a hard outer shell and a protective lining that absorbs impact and reduces the risk of head injury in case of accidents. They meet both US and EU safety standards for sports helmets, including:
US CPSC Safety Standard For Bicycle Helmets For Persons Age 1 And Older
This standard tests helmets for the following criteria:
- Impact protection: The helmet must effectively protect against impact forces to the head in case of accidents. It should meet or exceed standards set by testing organizations such as ASTM International or the European Committee for Standardization.
- Fit system: The helmet should have a proper fit system that provides a secure and comfortable fit to the wearer's head. It should be easily adjustable and have a chin strap that fastens securely.
- Coverage: The helmet should cover the head's frontal, temporal, and occipital regions. It should also extend downward to protect the base of the skull.
- Visibility: The helmet should have high visibility features like reflective materials, bright colors, or other signaling devices to increase the wearer's visibility in low-light conditions.
- Ventilation: The helmet should have adequate ventilation to keep the wearer cool and prevent sweating, which can cause discomfort and increase the risk of accidents.
- Weight: The helmet should be lightweight and not cause undue strain on the wearer's neck or shoulders.
- Durability: The helmet should withstand daily wear and tear and provide adequate protection in accidents.
- Age-appropriate: The helmet should be designed and sized appropriately for the age and size of the intended user according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Labeling: The helmet label should contain the manufacturer's name, model number, and size details. It should also carry a certification mark indicating that it meets safety standards set by the CPSC.
- Educational Material: Educational material should be provided in each box containing helmets to help consumers understand the risks and their responsibilities under the safety standards.
EN1078
EN 1078 is a European standard establishing bicycle, skateboard, and roller-skate helmet requirements. Some of the safety criteria outlined in this standard include:
- Shock Absorption: The helmet must absorb the impact of a fall or a collision to protect the wearer's head.
- Retention System: The helmet must stay securely on the wearer's head during a fall or collision.
- Penetration Resistance: The helmet must protect against objects that could penetrate the helmet, such as sharp rocks or branches.
- Coverage: The helmet must cover an appropriate area of the wearer's head to provide adequate protection.
- Durability: The helmet must withstand the wear and tear of regular use without losing its protective properties.
- Labeling: The helmet label must include information about its size, weight, and other features.
- Additional standards, such as EN 1077B, apply to Bern’s winter sports helmets.
Bottom line: kids are more likely to wear a bike helmet if it looks cool and fits well. Bern's youth helmets come in various sizes and have an adjustable fitting system that ensures a snug and comfortable fit for different head sizes. If you’re looking for a high-quality kids helmet that blends style, comfort, and protection, look no further than the Bern youth line!
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