How to Measure Your Head for a Helmet: A Comprehensive Guide

Do you know how to measure your head for a helmet? If not, don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this comprehensive guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about finding the right size and fit for your helmet. Whether you’re a cyclist, motorcyclist, or just someone who wants some added protection while out on the town, it’s important to make sure that your helmet fits properly. Otherwise, it might not do its job in the event of an accident. So let’s get started!

How are helmets sized?

There are a few different ways that manufacturers size helmets. Some use Small, Medium, and Large (S, M, L) like apparel; some use Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large (XS-XL); and some brands use numerical sizes like 52-56cm or 21.65-22.05in. What’s important is that you use the sizing chart for the specific helmet you’re looking at – don’t just assume that all helmets are sized the same way!

What if I’m between sizes?

If you find yourself between sizes on a sizing chart, it’s generally better to go with the smaller size. That’s because a helmet that’s too big might not protect your head properly in the event of an accident, while a helmet that’s slightly too small will likely still be effective.

How do I know if the helmet is too big or small?

There are a few different ways to tell whether a helmet is too big or small. First, try putting the helmet on and fastening the straps. If you can fit two fingers comfortably between your chin and the strap, the helmet is probably too big. On the other hand, if the straps are so tight that they’re digging into your skin or you can’t open your mouth to take a drink, the helmet is probably too small.

Another way to tell is to look in the mirror with the helmet on. If you can see the bottom edge of the helmet above your eyebrows, it’s probably too big. Conversely, if you can see more than about an inch or two of space between the top of your head and the inside of the helmet, it’s probably too small.

Finally, shake your head from side to side and front to back. If the helmet moves around a lot, it’s probably too big. If it doesn’t move at all, it’s probably too small. The goal is to find a helmet that fits snugly without being uncomfortable.

How to measure your Head’s Circumference for a helmet

To find your head circumference, wrap a measuring tape around your head just above your eyebrows. Make sure the tape is level – you don’t want it to be too tight or too loose. Once you have your measurement, consult the sizing chart for the helmet you’re interested in to find the right size.

Helmet Sizing Chart

How to adjust the fit of a helmet

Once you have the helmet on, there are a few things you can do to adjust the fit.

The Straps

The straps on your helmet are just as important as the rest of the helmet when it comes to fit. First, make sure that the straps are fastened so that they’re tight enough that you can’t slide two fingers under them. If they’re too loose, the helmet won’t stay on in the event of an accident.

Next, adjust the straps so that the helmet sits level on your head. The front of the helmet should sit about an inch above your eyebrows, and the back should be level with the base of your skull. If the helmet is tilted back, it might not provide adequate protection in a crash.

Finally, make sure that the straps are fastened in such a way that they won’t come undone while you’re riding. You don’t want the helmet to fall off in the middle of a ride!

The Padding

Most helmets come with removable padding that can be used to adjust the fit. If the helmet is too big, you can add more padding to make it smaller. Conversely, if the helmet is too small, you can remove some of the paddings to make it larger.

Keep in mind that the padding will compress over time, so you might need to add or remove it occasionally to maintain a comfortable fit.

What if I can’t find a helmet that fits?

If you’ve tried all of the above and you still can’t find a helmet that fits, it’s possible that you have an unusually shaped head. In this case, you might want to try a custom-fit helmet. These helmets are made to order based on your head circumference and other measurements.

Custom-fit helmets can be more expensive than off-the-shelf helmets, but they’re worth it if you can’t find a helmet that fits properly.

Does MIPS affect helmet sizing?

MIPS stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, and it’s a feature that can be found in some helmets. MIPS helmets are designed to reduce rotational forces in the event of a crash.

MIPS helmets tend to be a bit larger than non-MIPS helmets, so you might want to size up if you’re considering a MIPS helmet. Alternatively, you can try a MIPS liner, which is a thin layer of material that can be added to a non-MIPS helmet to provide some of the same protection.

Can I have a ponytail or wear a hat with a helmet?

Ponytails and hats can interfere with the fit of a helmet, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. If you must wear a ponytail, try to put it under the back of the helmet. And if you must wear a hat, make sure it’s not too tight and that it doesn’t cover your eyebrows.

How to properly wear a helmet

Once you’ve found a helmet that fits, it’s important to wear it properly. The straps should be fastened so that the helmet is snug but not too tight. The front of the helmet should sit about an inch above your eyebrows, and the back should be level with the base of your skull.

You also want to make sure that the straps are fastened in such a way that they won’t come undone while you’re riding. The last thing you want is for your helmet to fall off in the middle of a ride!

Finally, if you’re wearing a hat or a ponytail, make sure that it’s not too tight and that it doesn’t cover your eyebrows. Otherwise, you might not be getting the full protection that your helmet is designed to provide.

Commonly Asked Questions

What size helmet do I need for a 22-inch head?

There is no definitive answer to this question as head sizes can vary greatly, even within the same brand. As a general rule, you should always err on the side of buying a larger helmet rather than a smaller one. That way, you can be sure that the helmet will fit snugly and provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.

What size bike helmet do I need for a 26-inch head?

Again, there is no definitive answer to this question. However, as a general rule, you should always err on the side of buying a larger helmet rather than a smaller one. That way, you can be sure that the helmet will fit snugly and provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.

What’s the difference between a full-face helmet and a half-face helmet?

A full-face helmet covers your entire head, while a half-face helmet only covers the lower half of your face. Full-face helmets provide more protection in the event of an accident, but they can be hot and claustrophobic in the summer months. Half-face helmets are more ventilated and tend to be more comfortable in warm weather, but they offer less protection overall.

What’s the difference between a road helmet and a mountain bike helmet?

Road helmets are designed for riding on paved surfaces, while mountain bike helmets are designed for off-road riding. Road helmets tend to be lighter and more aerodynamic, while mountain bike helmets tend to be heavier and more durable.

Do I need to wear a helmet when I ride my bike?

In most jurisdictions, it is mandatory to wear a helmet when riding a bike. However, even if it’s not required by law, it’s always a good idea to wear one. That way, you can be sure that you’re protected in the event of an accident.

Wearing a helmet also shows that you’re serious about safety, which can set a good example for other cyclists on the road.

How do you measure your head for a helmet without tape?

If you don’t have a tape measure, you can use a string or a piece of yarn. Wrap the string around your head, making sure that it’s level with the ground all the way around. Once you’ve done that, mark the spot where the string meets and then measure the length of the string with a ruler. That will give you your head circumference. Alternatively, you can wrap the string around your head and then compare it to a ruler to get an approximate measure of your head circumference.

Once you have your head measurement, you can use that to find a helmet that will fit snugly and provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.

How do you measure a child’s head for a helmet?

The best way to measure a child’s head for a helmet is to use a tape measure. Wrap the tape measure around the child’s head, making sure that it’s level with the ground all the way around. Once you’ve done that, mark the spot where the tape measure meets, and then measure the length of the string with a ruler. That will give you the child’s head circumference.

Alternatively, you can wrap the tape measure around the child’s head and then compare it to a ruler to get an approximate measure of the child’s head circumference. Once you have the measurement, you can use that to find a helmet that will fit snugly and provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.

Hopefully, this guide has helped you to understand how to measure your head for a helmet and how to choose the right size. Remember, always err on the side of buying a larger helmet rather than a smaller one. And make sure that the helmet fits snugly and securely before you hit the road. Safe riding!