Buying guide: which bike or scooter helmet to choose
A good helmet helps protect you when you need it most
Whether you have just adopted the bicycle or the scooter (electric or not) as a daily means of transport or whether you are an avid cyclist who travels miles every day, the helmet is an essential accessory for your safety
A good model provides optimal head protection in the event of a fall. However, with such a wide choice on the market, it is difficult to know which is best suited to our needs and desires
Note that since 2017, bicycle helmets are compulsory for children under 12, but not (yet) for adults
Whether you are riding a scooter or a bicycle, here is everything you need to take into account when buying a helmet
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Main things to consider when buying a helmet
There are some questions to ask yourself when looking for a helmet. Is it safe enough? Is it the right size? Is it suitable for the activities I plan to do
For guidance, read the rest of this buying guide
Approved helmet
The most important element to consider is the security standard
More specifically, keep an eye on helmets that meet the European standard EN 1078, such as the Mavic Aksium Elite at € 59.90
This rule assesses various parts of the helmet: the manufacture of the outer shell (PVC, polycarbonate, carbon), shock absorption, field of vision, the quality of the retention systems, but also of fasteners and straps, for ensure that it will provide adequate support in the event of a shock
Ventilation
Another essential aspect is ventilation. The idea is that the ventilation holes for heat dissipation and the entry of fresh air. The size of these holes varies
It goes without saying that helmets with more openings are generally lighter and cooler. However, this can also have an impact on the level of protection, so try to find a good balance between freshness and protection
For urban and short journeys, you can opt for a slightly more covering model, like the Bern Brentwood 2.0 or the Kali Saha
Weight
A light helmet is the key to gaining speed, the problem is that you will pay more for a light model than its heavier counterparts
If you pedal in a sporty way then prefer a helmet of less than 300 g
Padding
For comfort, you have to look at the side of the padding that lines the interior. The foams ensure a pleasant wearing, with less pressure on the skull, but also the absorption of perspiration
They are often removable, and some brands provide additional padding for the best possible fit
You need a product sufficiently padded so that you are comfortable and protected
Size and fit
It goes without saying that a good helmet must be properly adjusted to provide the best protection in the event of impact
It is essential that you take the time to properly measure your head (from the middle of the forehead to the occipital hump) and find the right size, because too large or too small will not really protect you
Here's a guide to sizes, but be aware that they vary from manufacturer to manufacturer
S: 46-55cm
M: 56-58cm
L: 59-62cm
XL: 62-65cm
The different types of helmets
In addition to all of the above, you need to consider the type of helmet. There are several suitable for bikes and electric scooters, each with unique advantages depending on your use
Road bike helmet
Road bike helmets like the Giro Angon are generally lightweight with many ventilation holes. They are more aerodynamic and ventilating than the others
Foldable road bike helmet
There are also foldables on the market, like the Overade Plixi Fit (also on Amazon France). It is approved, comfortable, light and easily transportable in a bag
Urban helmet
Urban or recreational helmets, like the Triple 8 Brainsaver or the Abus Scraper 3.0, play on elegance, a light design while offering ventilation without the angular and sporty appearance of road bike models
They are traditionally used for snowboarding and skateboarding, but they are perfect for city trips and available in all kinds of finishes
They are perfect for those who do not need aerodynamic design
MTB helmet
MTB helmets such as the HardnutZ Stealth Hi Vis or the All Mountain are of a more robust design and offer overall protection which can also extend to the neck and ears
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