Tips
- Choose the right kind of helmet for the specific sport or transportation activity
- Don't wear a hat, bandana, hair clip, or ponytail under a helmet
- A thin fleece toque under a hockey or ski helmet is ok
- Store helmets away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place
- Don’t use a second-hand helmet
- Never use a bike helmet that has been in a crash, even if you can’t see any damage
- Replace a helmet at least every five years after the manufacturing date or if you see any damage like cracks, worn or torn straps
- When you shake your head, your helmet should stay put and feel comfortably snug.
Finding a helmet that fits
All helmets fit differently. Below are tips for making sure your helmet fits right.
Bicycle Helmets |
Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following:Two fingers distance from helmet to eyebrow V-shape straps around each ear One finger between chin and fastened strap
|
Hockey helmets |
Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following:One finger between the chinstrap and chin
One finger distance from helmet to eyebrow
Helmet does not move
|
Recommended helmets for different activities |
|||
Activity |
Recommended Helmet |
Type of Protection |
Certification
|
|
Bicycling & |
Bicycle helmet |
Single impact |
CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell |
|
In-line or roller skating |
Bicycle / in-line skating or |
Mostly single impact |
CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell |
|
BMX cycling |
BMX helmet |
Single/ Multi impact |
ASTM or CPSC |
|
Skateboarding |
Skateboard or bicycle helmet |
Single/Multi impact |
ASTM, Snell, CEN, |
|
Ice hockey/ skating |
Hockey helmet |
Multi impact |
CSA |
|
Skiing & Snowboarding |
Ski helmet |
Single impact |
Snell, ASTM, or CSA |
|
Sledding/tobogganing |
Hockey or ski helmet |
Single / Multi impact |
CSA, CPSC or Snell |
The instructions and table above are adapted with permission from Ottawa Public Health. For educational and non-commercial purposes only.