Ski helmet: Size & fit

The most important reason why you should buy a ski helmet is quite simple: Safety. Studies have shown that ski helmets reduce the risk of head injuries by around 30 to 60 per cent. The right size is crucial for optimum protection. A too large model can slip in the event of a fall and then does not offer the full protective effect. If it is too small, it can pinch and cause headaches. Only a perfect fit can distribute the forces of an impact and protect you in the best possible way.

There are also a number of other reasons to wear suitable ski helmets on the slopes:

• Helmets keep your head warm.
• They ensure that the ski goggles do not slip.
• They keep the snow away from your eyes.
• You can express your personality with stickers or motifs.

The ideal fit is not only important for safety – It also contributes to wearing comfort. A model that fits perfectly should feel neither too loose nor too tight. With the perfect fit, you'll even forget you're wearing a helmet after a short time. This not only makes your day of skiing safer, but also much more comfortable.

If you don't have a tape measure at hand, you can use a piece of string or thread:

1. Wrap the string around your head as described above for the tape measure method.
2. Mark the point where the thread crosses.
3. Measure the length of the thread between the marks using a ruler.

Once you have determined it, simply refer to the size chart below to find the correct fit for you.

If you have measured your head circumference, the following table will help you find an overview of the right size. The sizes are graded by circumference in centimetres and labelled with the common designations from XXS to XXL.

Important to know: Sizes may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model. It is therefore best to try on helmets from different brands before you buy or get advice from our experts.

Our tip: Is your measurement result between two sizes of the chart? Then it's best to try out both. Helmets that are too big do not offer optimum protection, while too small helmets can be uncomfortably tight. At INTERSPORT Rent you can test different models and sizes until you find your perfect one.

Helmets that fit perfectly are the basic requirement for maximum protection on the slopes. Follow these simple steps to find out whether your gear fits properly:

It should feel comfortable and not too tight. However, if you can still move it back and forth, it is too loose. Adjust the sizing system so that it does not slip!

• Basic test without straps: Put the helmet on with the chin strap and tensioning system open. It should already sit comfortably and not pinch. Shake your head gently - the helmet should not wobble.
• Adjust the straps: Adjust the chin strap so that one finger fits between the strap and the chin. Breathing and swallowing should be possible without any problems. Adjust the sizing system to your individual head shape.
• Fine-tuning: The adjustment system should be in the middle of the adjustment range - neither fully tightened nor fully loosened. The gear must not rest on the forehead or neck.

Our tip: Perfectly fitting accessories feel so natural after a short time that you hardly notice them.

Children's helmets differ from adult models in important aspects. The special requirements for children's models result from the still ongoing physical development and the specific skiing behaviour of young skiers. In particular, the weaker neck muscles and the more frequent falls when learning require an adapted design.

Measuring the circumference is particularly important for children, as their heads are still growing. Re-measure the circumference regularly and check the fit before each ski season. Use the same measuring method as for adults - one centimetre above the eyebrows, horizontally around the head.

You can find more information on choosing children's ski helmets in our blog post!

Our tip: At INTERSPORT Rent you can rent children's ski helmets in various sizes. Not only will you save money, but you will also have the perfect model for your child every season for new adventures in the snow.

Helmet fit is equally important for all winter sports, whether skiing, snowboarding or ski touring. The measurement of the head circumference and the charts above are identical for all disciplines. However, the helmets differ in their specific characteristics:

• ... Skiing in ski resorts: are versatile and have various functions (adjustable ventilation, audio system, etc.)
• ... Ski touring: are ultra-light and well ventilated, some of them comply with the standard for climbing and mountaineering (EN 12492)
• ... Freeriders: are lightweight and well ventilated
• ... Snowboarding: are stylish and specially reinforced
• ... Downhill Racing: are aerodynamic and hardwearing

• Inner shell made of polystyrene with an outer layer of ABS plastic
• Robust and scratch-resistant
• usually heavier than in-mould ski helmets
• Very good protection in all sizes at a moderate price

• Thin plastic outer shell bonded directly to EPS inner shell
• Lighter and stronger than other types
• Technically advanced construction with precise size adjustment
• Relatively expensive

• Two thick foam layers with different densities
• withstands several light impacts thanks to excellent cushioning properties
• slightly heavier, but even weight distribution in all sizes

For safety reasons, a ski helmet should be replaced after five years at the latest - even if it shows no external damage. The material can wear out over time and lose its protective effect.

 INTERSPORT Rent offers you a clever alternative to buying: With us, you can not only test different ski helmet sizes and models, but also benefit from the latest equipment in perfect condition. This means you have perfectly fitted helmets with full protection every season – at attractive rental prices.

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It should fit snugly but not too tightly. As a rule of thumb, your model should not move when you shake your head. At the same time, you shouldn't feel any uncomfortable pressure points. The chin strap should be adjusted so that you can fit a finger between the strap and your chin.

Proper care of your accessories is important for its protective effect and service life. After every day of skiing, you should allow the ski helmet to dry inside and out - but never on a radiator or other heat source! The high temperatures can damage the material and impair the protective effect.

How to look after your helmet properly:

• Only clean the outer shell with warm water without aggressive cleaning agents.
• Remove the inner lining if possible and wash it by hand.
• Regularly check all straps and fasteners for damage.
• Store it dry and at room temperature.
• Avoid direct sunlight during storage.

The right size is the most important factor when buying a new model, but there are other crucial aspects too. Be sure to look for the CE marking in accordance with EN 1077, which confirms the safety. A good model should also have effective ventilation options and harmonise perfectly with your ski goggles or sunglasses.

Our tip: Don't save money at the wrong end - high-quality helmets are an investment in your safety.

It's not just a question of aesthetics that it also matches your ski goggles – it's about your safety! Only if your helmet and ski goggles fit together perfectly, they can really protect you in the event of a fall.

Therefore, always make sure that your ski goggles fit well and that the strap fits over your helmet. There should be no gap between the edge of the goggles and your helmet! Also try it with your sunglasses too to check the perfect fit.