How to Choose the Safest Bicycle Helmet

Conclusion: Youd be foolish to bike without one.

That said, not all helmets are not the same.

But that doesnt mean every helmet you’re able to buy actually does.

Some helmetssaytheyre CPSC certified, but dont include the information that the CPSC requires.

The name, address and telephone number of the manufacturer or importer.

Making sure your helmet is government-approved is only the first step toward making sure its as safe as possible.

CPSC labeling is mandatory, but theres no governmental agency that inspects helmetsits an honor system.

So look for indication that the helmet is ASTM2, Snell3, or ANSI4 certified too.

These are independent testing companies that verify helmet safety, with stricter standards than the government requires.

Youd have no way of knowing if a previous accident has lessened the structural integrity of a used helmet.

What is a MIPS helmet and is it safer than a regular helmet?

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System.

For what its worth,MIPS-equipped helmets dominate best of lists for helmet safety.

You should get a new helmet if theres been any impact to it.

Bike helmets are basically one-time-use items.

Some say that bike helmets should be replaced periodically even if there is no damage to them.

Different helmet manufacturers have different recommendations for when to replace a helmet.

That said, you should wear the proper headgear for the sport youre engaging in.

Cycle helmets are designed for different kinds of impacts than skateboard helmets.

Equestrian helmets are designed for different impacts than football helmets.

Road helmets are made to be light and aerodynamic.

Commuter helmets tend to be more rounded and designed for versatility and ventilation.

Which is better depends on the kind of cycling youre doing.