Skiing is a popular winter sport that offers a lot of excitement and adventure. However, safety is a critical aspect of skiing, and many debate the importance of wearing a helmet. So, do you need a helmet to ski?
Experts agree that wearing appropriate gear while skiing benefits you, keeping you safe and warm. Skiing is a dangerous and speedy sport that causes everyone to fall. Therefore, protection should be your priority.
There are plenty of benefits and disadvantages to wearing a helmet while skiing. Research every gear before deciding to avoid or get it. Read on to learn more about it.
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Benefits of Wearing A Helmet While Skiing
Skiing requires good gear and clothing for your trip to be comfortable, safe, and fun. Just like you need to wear warm clothes to protect yourself from the harsh mountain weather, you need gear to protect your body from injuries.
One of the essential protective equipment for skiing is the helmet. Here is why you should wear it while sliding down the powdery slope:
Prevents Head Injury
A helmet can help prevent serious head injury or even death if you fall or collide with another skier. In fact, according to studies, 74% of head injuries result when people hit their heads in the snow. In addition, 10% occurs when there is a collision with other skiers and 13% with hitting fixed objects.
Furthermore, helmets can provide additional protection to other parts of your head and face, including your ears, jaw, and temples, in case of any accidents mentioned earlier.
Improves Comfort
Helmets are lightweight and breathable, which means they will not weigh you down or make you feel too hot. They also often have adjustable vents that can help you regulate your temperature and keep you comfortable, even on the coldest days.
Furthermore, wearing a helmet while going down the snowy peak at high speed will keep your mind at ease, as your noggin will stay protected in case of an unfortunate time.
Keeps You Warm
Helmets can help keep you warm by retaining heat and protecting your head from the cold winds on the slopes. As the skiing helmets provide you with ventilation to prevent sweating, they have extra padding inside to keep your head from the harsh cold of the mountain.
If you wear a warm hat and a gaiter with your helmet, you will not feel a single pinching gush of cold when you slide down the mountain.
Also read: Best Ski Helmets With Visors
Why Do Skiers Not Wear Helmets?
Everything that has benefits comes with a long list of disadvantages as well. Helmets are no different. Here are a few cons of wearing a helmet on your skiing trip.
Limits Vision
Some believe helmets can limit their vision, making it harder to see other skiers and obstacles on the slopes. Additionally, a helmet can make your head and neck feel heavier.
However, modern ski helmets are aerodynamic and low-profile, which makes them lightweight.
False Sense Of Security
Wearing a helmet can give skiers a false sense of security, leading them to take more risks on the slopes. The risk compensation theory says people will take more risks when they feel protected.
Helmets can help skiers feel more confident and in control, making them less likely to take unnecessary risks. However, unfortunately, it can have the opposite effect too.
What To Look For When Buying A Ski Helmet?
When choosing a helmet, selecting one that meets industry safety standards and fits you properly is essential. There are several important factors to consider to ensure that you get a helmet that will provide adequate protection and meet your needs. Here is a list of what you should look for:
Certifications
Look for a helmet that meets industry safety standards. Look for helmets certified by ASTM, which tests helmets for safety and provides certification. Make sure that the helmet you choose meets the appropriate safety standards for your level of skiing and the type of skiing you plan to do.
Perfect Fit
A too-loose or too-tight helmet will not provide adequate protection. To ensure a proper fit, measure the circumference of your head using a tape measure and stay one inch above your eyebrows. Look for a helmet that corresponds to your head size. A perfectly fit helmet will not make you feel claustrophobic while not allowing your head any room to move about.
Provides Ventilation
On warm days, you want to ensure adequate ventilation to keep your head cool and prevent overheating. Look for helmets with vents that allow air to circulate and keep you comfortable.
Helmet Design
You can participate in multiple skiing types, each requiring different gear. Therefore, it is best to keep in mind your preferred terrain to get a helmet with specific features for different types of skiing. For example, backcountry skiers may wish for a helmet with additional features, such as more ventilation and a removable liner.
Durable Material
The helmet’s outer shell should be durable and impact-resistant. In addition, the inner liner should have energy-absorbing material, such as expanded polystyrene foam, which helps absorb impact and protect your head in the event of a fall.
Best Ski Helmets For Skiing
Before embarking on your skiing journey, getting proper gear and clothing is best to make your trip comfortable and stress-free. There are plenty of options in the market for helmets that will suit your needs and style of skiing. Here is a list you can check out:
Winder Helmet
The helmet is sleek, lightweight, and suitable for all-mountain and backcountry skiing. It comes in various chic colors that you can choose from to satisfy your fashion cravings. In addition, the helmet has in-molded impact shields, a goggle garage, turn-dial adjustment, and removable earpads for better comfort and protection.
Scott Symbol 2 Plus D
The helmet has a clever dual active ventilation solution that adjusts your noggin’s temperature according to the environment, hot and cold. In addition, it uses three key safety technologies for ultimate protection: D3O technology, MIPS, and 360-degree Pure Sound.
Smith Holt Snow Helmet
The helmet has 14 vents to ensure temperature regulation. It is perfect for snow sports, is lightweight, has removable goggles lock and bombshell earpads, and is compatible with Skullcandy audio systems.
Salomon Pioneer LT Pro
The snow helmet is lightweight, with a PC fused shell and an EPS liner. It has active ventilation, in-mold construction, maximum energy absorption, 3D sound system earpads, and premium helmet adjustment.
Anon Raider 3 MIPS
The helmet is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, with endura shell construction, passive ventilation chambers, and a multi-directional impact protection system. It is also lightweight and has an auto-adjust fit system with an elastic closure.
Final Word
In any case, it is essential to remember that skiing can be a dangerous sport. You should always take appropriate safety precautions, including gear, following safe skiing practices, and skiing within your abilities.
You can have a safe and enjoyable time on the slopes with reasonable precautions and some common sense.
