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How To Fit a Bike Helmet

It's not enough to simply wear one - you need to make sure it fits PROPERLY.

The bike helmet should sit level on the head.

Center the left buckle under the chin. On most helmets the straps can be pulled from the back of the helmet to lengthen or shorten the chin straps. This task is easier if you take the helmet off to make the adjustments.

The side straps should form a "V" shape under and slightly, in front of the ears.

After buckling the helmet, tighten the strap so NO MORE THAN ONE FINGER FITS BETWEEN THE CHIN AND STRAP.
Your helmet should fit evenly on your head between the ears and rests low on your forehead - it should only be about 1 - 2 finger widths above the eyebrows.

Does your helmet fit right?

Open your mouth wide...Big Yawn! The helmet should pull down on the head. If not, tighten the chin strap.

Shake your head "No" really hard. Does your helmet rock back more than two fingers above the eyebrows?

If so, unbuckle, shorten the front strap by moving the slider forward. Also, adjust padding thickness and/or position, especially in back. Buckle, retighten the chin strap, and test again! If this doesn't work, the helmet may be too big.

Shake your head "No" really hard. Does your helmet rock forward into your eyes?

If so, unbuckle, tighten the back strap by moving the slider back toward the ear. Also, adjust padding thickness and/or position, especially in front. Buckle, retighten the chin strap, and test again!

Never wear your helmet tilted!
With a proper fit, the helmet must sit firmly and level on your head. It will not move back and forth or side to side while fastened. And the straps are snug and evenly tensioned.
  • Select a helmet that meets the current safety standards issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), or one of the voluntary bike helmet standards like ASTM, Snell or ANSI. Look for a label or sticker that says the helmet meets the standards.
  • Select a helmet that fits well prior to adjustments. Adjusting pads are usually included to help with the proper fit. Pick a helmet that is comfortable and "cool" so your child always wear it.
  • A HELMET ONLY LASTS ONE CRASH! Replace any helmet that has been in a crash, been dropped repeatedly, or has any noticable damage.
A Good Helmet Fit is as important as wearing one... but it takes time. Allow as much as a half hour to get a proper helmet fit.

If fitting your child, don't try to "rush" it as they are trying to go outside to ride. Do it while they're relaxed and you have plenty of time. Then secure the adjustments so the helmet is ready for the next ride.