Hey there ski lovers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best ski helmets to keep you protected on the slopes this year. Finding the perfect ski helmet is like finding the perfect pair of jeans – fit is essential. While solid construction and protection features are almost standard these days thanks to stringent safety and testing standards, there are still some influences to consider.
So for those of you looking for a good helmet to meet your snow skiing needs, I have had a look around and come up with three decent options below.
Let’s check them out…
My three recommended ski helmets
I will review these in more detail below however if you want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are Snow Skiing Helmets?
As with those used on a motorbike or football game, a ski helmet is a head protection option specifically designed and built for winter sports. They are designed to absorb the impact of a fall or collision and hence protect the head from injury or worse. Even if a skier or snowboarder suffers a head injury, the severity of the injury will be reduced if a helmet protects the head.
The also provide a good base for a sports camera too.
Check out these: Waterproof sports cameras
What should you be looking for?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a good helmet to keep you protected as you ski.
- Fit
- Construction
- Safety certifications
- Liners
- Ventilation
- Goggle compatibility
- Weight and bulk
Fit
Fit is important as it not only determines how comfortable you will be wearing your helmet all day, but also ensures maximum protection as well. Here are some practical steps to determine the right fit for a ski helmet.
Helmet brands provide a variety of sizes as well as head measurements for each size. The first step is to determine what size you require. Using a measuring tape, measure around the crown of your head (in centimeters). It should also sit about an inch above your brows and completely cover the back of your head. It is most likely not adequately fitted if it appears to ride too high on your head.
Furthermore, the helmet may be adjustable via Velcro, a plastic harness or a wheel so on first use loosen all adjustments, including the chin strap then adjust accordingly. If you always wear a beanie, ensure you take that into consideration as well.
Construction
Most skiing and snowboarding helmets are designed to withstand a single significant impact. This means that if you are in an accident and the rigid foam interior of your helmet collapses or cracks, you must replace it because it is no longer safe. Always check the helmet’s interior because not all severe impacts are visible outside.
With that in mind, most ski helmets are constructed as follows:
- In-mold helmets – In-mold helmets have a thin, hard plastic outer shell molded to a softer EPS foam liner to absorb shock. This helmet is lightweight and provides less rebound on impact due to the interior collapsing.
- Hard-shell ABS helmets – ABS helmets have a thick, rugged ABS plastic shell pre-formed and glued onto a pre-molded hard foam interior and liner to provide reasonable protection at an affordable price.
- Soft shell helmets – Because of the use of two foam densities: one against your head and one against the outer shell, soft shell helmets are designed for less intense impacts but can withstand more. These helmets aren’t always certified for single significant impacts, so double-check before purchasing.
Safety certifications
Check to ensure that any ski helmet you buy has been properly certified to meet internationally recognized industry standards. Look for a sticker or other information indicating that a helmet has been certified in CE EN, ASTM, or Snell.
Liners
To increase safety, many snow helmets include protective features in addition to the standard shell and foam combos mentioned above. One of these technologies that has gained traction is the MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) liner. MIPS was developed to reduce brain damage in angled impacts (such as a high-speed skiing fall or a failed landing) by employing a liner that moves independently of the outer shell.
The choice between EPS and EPP foam is another worthy consideration. Most snow helmets are made of EPS foam, which is less expensive than EPP foam but also more brittle.
When subjected to enough impact, EPS will crack, requiring these helmets to be retired after a significant fall. EPP foam, on the other hand, springs back into shape after impact and can withstand multiple hits over its lifetime, making it an excellent choice for those how ski often and aggressively.
Ventilation
The next factor to consider is the total number of vents on the helmet. Although not all vents are created equal, this figure is a good starting point for determining how much ventilation the helmet provides.
To be sure, the number of vents and the helmet’s price are related. One of the best (but most expensive) ski helmets has an abundance of vents, possibly as many as 21, whereas a budget model has six small fixed openings.
Many premium and mid-range helmets have adjustable vents that can be opened and closed to allow the desired air to enter. Adjustable vents are preferred over static vents. Heat is “exhausted” out the top and back, while air is directed through front intakes.
Budget helmets often have fixed openings that cannot be closed, but a well-designed passive system can still effectively regulate your body heat.
Goggles compatibility
The compatibility of your goggles with your helmet is critical because a gap between these two would cause discomfort in cold weather and windy conditions. Many helmet and goggle manufacturers ensure that their products are highly compatible for a perfect fit.
If your goggles and helmet need to fit correctly, you may have to switch helmets or purchase a new pair of goggles. Furthermore, some goggles do not have helmet-compatible straps, so your goggles may be too tight on your face or will not fit. If your goggle frame and helmet are compatible, but the strap is too short, wear them under your helmet.
Check out these: Ski Goggles
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Color variation: This feature lets you choose the color that appeals to your choice or fashion statement.
- Removable earpads: The earpads may be removable if the circumstances require them.
FAQ
Are ski helmets worth it?
Short answer – Absolutely. Whilst they will not guarantee that you won’t suffer a head injury in a ski accident, just like on a motorbike, they will provide greater protection and reduce the risk of serious damage. Look for an option with safety certification and made of solid materials with vents and internal linings for extra comfort as well.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. OutdoorMaster Kelvin Ski Helmet
If you are looking for a budget-friendly ski helmet that is capable of excellently protecting your head, then this product is for you. It comes with impressive construction that provides comfort and safety. You can also choose an option that will complement your get-up thanks to its wide range of colors. See its specifications below:
- Brand: OutdoorMaster
- Construction type: ABS shell
- Safety: ASTN certification and CPSC safety certification
- Dimensions: 10.94 x 8.66 x 7.64 inches
- Weight: 1.08 pounds
Other inclusions:
- 15+ available colors
- Size adjustment dial
- 14 individual vents
- Removable earpads
- Removable fleece lining
Why have I chosen it?
This product has received certifications from ASTN and CPSC to protect your head against unwanted and severe bumps. It is strong and equipped with a size adjustment dial that helps you get the right fit, a crucial aspect of top-quality ski helmets. A great option for intermittent and frequent skiers alike.
2. Giro Ledge Ski Helmet
My second ski helmet is another great option with great construction and safety certifications as required. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Giro
- Construction type: Hard shell construction
- Safety: MIPS technology
- Dimensions: 10 x 11.6 x 9.4 inches
- Weight: 2 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Stack vent technology
- Removable earpads
- Eight vents
- Auto loc 2 fit system
Why have I chosen it?
This ski helmet comes with a tough ABS hardshell, a close and adjustable fit and top-of-the-line MIPS technology -0 the same safety system used by many of the premium competitors.
The earpieces were snug enough to keep you warm but not so tight that they became uncomfortable there are eight vents to help with ventilation on cold days. This model is certainly a good choice if you want a tough, versatile ski helmet.
3. Oakley Snow Sports Helmets
My final product recommendation comes from a reputable brand known for its superb head protection and is the go-to helmet for many ski lovers and professionals alike. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Oakley
- Construction type: Hybrid shell construction
- Safety: ASTM F2040 and CE EN1077 certifications
- Dimensions: 14 x 10 x 10 inches
- Weight: 2.29 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Adjustable ventilation system
- BOA fit system for a perfect fit
- Fidlock magnetic buckle
Why have I chosen it?
The Mod3 helmet is made of a hybrid material with an ABS shell with an EPS foam liner on the front and sides for added protection and durability.
In the back, there are four adjustable vents and two fixed vents. On top of the helmet, the vents form an X to keep your head cool on a hot ski day. The vents can be closed on cooler days or to keep snow out. It also has a magnetic helmet buckle that allows you to buckle and unbuckle your helmet while wearing gloves or with one hand.
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Conclusion
There you have it, my three best ski helmets to protect your head as you enjoy your skiing sports. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
