Keeping your noggin safe is vital when travelling at speed along rocky trails and car infested streets alike, chances are you're in control of the bike but you can't rule out a crazy dog or jay-walker jumping out in front of you. If your head hits the ground you'll come off worse that's for sure!
Getting a well fitting helmet is the main priority and sizing varies dramatically between manufacturers so try several before buying anything. Cheaper models tend to have a one-size fits all policy with adjustable straps and retention device at the rear.
We find these don't fit all head sizes especially those smaller or larger than average. Petite women will find getting a small enough helmet a problem when considering unisex helmets but by looking at women specific versions the problem is easy to solve. Most of the main helmet manufacturers do at least one female specific option and they aren't all in pink or decorated in flowers either.
Things to look out for
The more expensive the helmet the lighter it will be and the more ventilation there is, which in turn means the less material you get for your money, but higher specc'd helmets have better durability and are available in more size options. All helmets sold in the UK have to meet set of safety requirements, usually BSEN1078 where the "EN" part signifies a European standard. Any helmets that conform to Snell Foundation B90 or higher are even more strictly controlled and of a higher safety standard. Some helmets come with peaks, most are removable and some can be easily put back on too, peaks help keep sun and dust out of the eyes and are especially useful for off-road riding.
Some manufacturers offer a crash replacement policy where you can return broken helmets and pay a smaller fee for a new helmet, beats paying full price!
A comfortable fit
|
A perfect fit
There's no point wearing an ill-fitting helmet, if you want good protection choose a comfortable helmet that fits you properly. You can measure the circumference of your head to find the right sized helmet but each manufacturer makes a slightly different shape so try plenty on before buying.
For the correct fit, sit the helmet firmly on top of your head making sure it's not tilted forwards or backwards, the front should be comfortable over your forehead.
Adjust the rear retention system and tighten gently for a secure fit that isn't too tight, the helmet should ideally stay on if you wiggle your head around even with the chin strap undone.
Next adjust the chin and cheek straps, trying to avoid ears and not too tight under the chin. Most helmets come with spare pads that can be positioned to fine tune the fit once you've found a good fit. Remember to check the tightness of straps regularly as they can loosen with time.
Women specific helmets
Women specific helmets seem to be in the budget to mid price range, with prices rarely overtaking the £50 price mark. Above this price point you will find many unisex helmets with extensive size options to suit all head sizes including smaller and women's sizes.
Trek Interval Sport WSD
|
Budget helmets offer good protection and have plenty of features, making them great value for recreational riders. Removable peaks, good retention devices and decent airflow come as standard so you don't have to splash much cash to get a good buy.
Check out the Met Jacky £25.99 with 11 vents and a 3 year crash replacement warranty, the sizing is 51-57cm ideal for smaller heads.
Specialized Women's Chamonix £29.99 is a one size helmet for female head shapes with a removable visor and 18 vents for great cooling thanks to the huge mouthport vent at the front that channels air through the helmet. Trek's Interval Sport Series WSD £29.99 is the women's version of the popular Interval helmet with 21 generous vents and available in 2 sizes.
Hovering around the mid to high range price bracket the Specialized Aurora Women's helmet at £59.99 is a race designed road helmet with wind channelling air vents and PRO Fit retention system, and comes in 3 sizes for a custom fit.
So whatever price range you have in mind you'll be sure to find a selection of helmets designed specially for women to choose from. There's no excuse not to keep your head safe and sound!
