Safety Reviews

Dr. Rob’s Tips for Ski Helmets

Ski and snowboard as if you weren't wearing a helmet
All skiers and boarders should ride responsibly and in control at all times. Helmets may help prevent head injuries in the event of certain types of accidents, but if you're out of control, they cannot protect you in high-speed, head-on accidents any more than motorcycle or other helmets can in other sports. That's the reason helmets are called "brain buckets" when cyclists lost control of their bikes.

Use a helmet designed specifically for skiing or snowboarding
Each sport has its own type of impact and accidents. A bike helmet should never be worn for protection in skiing just as a skiing helmet should never be used for protection in biking.

Take time to ensure the helmet fits properly
Get a ski helmet that fits now. Don't plan on growing into it. Work with a knowledgeable salesperson at a reputable store regarding appropriate fit for a helmet and to answer your questions.

Buy a helmet that meets industry standards
There are various helmet standards in place including CEN (the least rigorous standard), ASTM and Snell (far and away the most rigorous and hard-to-meet standard for certification). Be sure to review product literature for the helmet to find out which standard the helmet meets.

Adults should serve as role models for children
This is an easy one. Parents are role model. If you want your children to wear helmets, wear them ourselves.

Establish a firm rule regarding helmet use and skiing/snowboarding.
If a parent decides that helmets should be worn, establish a rule, such as "No helmet equals no skiing or snowboarding." Encourage children to follow the lead of professional athletes, whose academies have rules requiring helmets.

Bring your child's or your goggles in when you buy your helmet
A well-fitting system will provide great protection for the face and forehead from cold wind and snow and still allow adequate ventilation for the goggles.

Keep goggles and helmets attached together
Some parents may find they recoup the cost of the helmet by not having to replace lost goggles (and hats!) as often.

Use stickers and similar decorations to personalize and make helmets cool
Let the kids get into decorating the helmets with stickers and make the helmets personal expressions of their experiences or dreams or just creativity.

Provide incentives for good helmet behavior
Reinforce helmet wearing with posters of famous skier and snowboarders who wear helmets.