Bicycle Helmets: Complete Guide to the Ideal Choice
Bicycle Helmets: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right One
A helmet is the most important accessory for cyclists. It's not just a matter of law, but of personal safety: a good helmet can save your life in the event of a fall or accident.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain everything you need to know to choose the perfect helmet: from regulations to types, from technical features to practical advice.
Why a Helmet is Essential
Safety Numbers
According to international studies, wearing a helmet reduces the risk of serious head injuries in the event of an accident by 70%. Despite this, many cyclists still don't use them regularly.
Although not mandatory for adults for recreational use, wearing a helmet is always the right choice.
Regulations and Certifications: How to Recognize a Safe Helmet
CE EN 1078 Certification
All helmets sold in Europe must comply with the EN 1078 standard, which guarantees:
Impact resistance
Effectiveness of the retention system (strap)
Adequate field of vision
Absence of dangerous edges
How to check: Look for the CE label inside the helmet with the reference to the EN 1078 standard.
Other Important Certifications
CPSC (USA): Very strict American standard
ASTM F1952 (USA): For BMX and downhill helmets
Snell B-95: Even more stringent voluntary certification
Expert tip: A helmet with more certifications offers greater safety guarantees.
Types of Bicycle Helmets
1. City Bike / Urban Helmet
Features:
Elegant and discreet design
Light weight (250-350g)
Good ventilation
Often with integrated visor
Neutral or bright colors
Ideal for:
Daily city commute
Commuting to work or school
Recreational use on bike paths
Average price: €30-€80
Recommended models
2. MTB / Mountain Bike Helmet
Features:
Extended neck protection
Adjustable or removable visor
Optimized ventilation
Light weight (280-400g)
Eyeglass compatibility
Adjustable retention system
Ideal for:
Trail and dirt trails
Cross country
Enduro (specific models)
Sports use
Average price: €40-€150
Advanced technologies:
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System): reduces rotational forces in the event of an oblique impact
In-mold construction: outer shell fused with polystyrene for greater strength
3. Road Bike Helmet
Features:
Aerodynamic and lightweight (200-280g)
Maximum ventilation
Racing design
No visor
Close fit
Ideal for:
Road cycling
Long training sessions
Granfondo and competitions
Expert cyclists
Average price: €50-€300+
Average price: €50-€300+
4. Children's Helme
Features:
Extensive protection (including side protection)
Bright colors and fun designs
Easy adjustment system
Very light weight
Comfortable padding
Ideal for:
Children aged 2 to 14
First time on a bike
Everyday use
Average price: €20-€60
Important: Children grow quickly! Check regularly that their helmet still fits properly.
Discover our children's helmets: [Product links]
5. Full-Face Helmet
Features:
Complete head and face protection
Fixed chin guard
Heavy weight (800-1200g)
Reduced ventilation
Maximum safety
Ideal for:
Downhill
Bike park
Freeride
Gravity disciplines
Average price: €100-€400
How to Choose the Right Size
Measure Head Circumference
Take a measuring tape
Place it 2 cm above your eyebrows
Place the tape measure over your ears
Close the tape measure at the back of your head
Read the measurement in centimeters
Standard Size Chart
Size Circumference Approximate Age
XS 47-51 cm Children 2-5 years
S 51-55 cm Children 6-10 years / Adults XS
M 55-59 cm Adults (most common size)
L 59-63 cm Adults with large heads
XL 63-65 cm Adults with very large heads
Note: Sizes may vary between manufacturers. Always check the specific size chart for each model.
Technical Features to Consider
1. Adjustment System
Rear dial: Allows you to tighten or loosen the helmet for a perfect fit. The best systems are:
Dial fit system: micrometric adjustment with a dial
Ratchet system: click-and-go adjustment
Boa system: precise adjustment with a steel cable
2. Ventilation
More vents = greater ventilation = more comfort in summer
Number of vents:
Urban helmets: 8-15 vents
MTB helmets: 15-25 vents
Road helmets: 20-30+ vents
Internal channels: Guide the airflow to cool the head.
3. Weight
A lightweight helmet reduces neck strain:
Urban: 250-350g
MTB: 280-400g
Road: 200-280g
Children: 180-250g
4. Visor
Advantages:
Protects from sun, rain, and branches
Improves aerodynamics (MTB)
Can be adjustable or removable
Disadvantages:
May limit field of vision
Not always compatible with glasses
5. MIPS system
What it is: An inner layer that slides independently of the outer shell, reducing rotational forces in the event of an oblique impact.
Is it worth it? Yes, if your budget allows. It increases safety by 10-15%, according to independent studies.
Additional cost: €20-40 more than the standard version
How to Wear a Helmet Correctly
Positioning
Height: The helmet should be 2 fingers above your eyebrows
Tilt: It should be horizontal, not tilted forward or backward
Side straps: They form a "V" under the ear
Chin strap: It should be tight but comfortable (1-2 fingers wide)
Verification Test
Shock test: Move your head forward/backward and left/right. The helmet should move with your head, not slip.
Mouth test: Open your mouth. The helmet should fit slightly on your head.
Strap Test: It should be tight enough not to go over the chin.
Helmet Maintenance and Lifespan
When to Replace Your Helmet
Replace immediately if:
✅ You have suffered an impact or fall (even if there is no visible damage)
✅ There are cracks or breaks in the shell
✅ The retention system is damaged
✅ The padding is deteriorated
Replace after:
⏰ 3-5 years from purchase (even without falls)
⏰ Prolonged exposure to sun, heat, or chemicals
Why: Materials degrade over time, reducing performance
Cleaning and Care
Weekly:
Clean the padding with a damp cloth
Remove insects and dirt from the shell
Monthly:
Wash the removable padding (if present) by hand with neutral soap
Check straps and buckles
Never:
❌ Use solvents or harsh detergents
❌ Leave the helmet in the car in the sun
❌ Hang the helmet on the handlebars (it may fall)
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place
Avoid extreme temperatures
Do not leave in direct sunlight for hours
Use a protective carrying bag
Useful Helmet Accessories
1. Integrated or Clip-on LED Lights
Increase visibility in the evening and at night. Many modern helmets have housings for rear lights.
2. Rain Cover
Protects from rain and keeps your head dry. Useful for commuters.
3. Technical Balaclava
For winter: retains heat
For summer: absorbs sweat
4. Sun Visor
Clip-on or magnetic, protects from the sun without glasses.
5. Action Cam Mount
GoPro Mount
Helmets for Every Need: Our Recommendations
For Urban Commuters
Ideal Features:
Subtle Style
Good Ventilation
Integrated Visor
Rear Light
Affordable Price
Budget: €30-€60
For Sport Cyclists (MTB/Road)
Ideal Features:
Lightweight
Maximum Ventilation
MIPS System
Precise Adjustment
Aerodynamic Design
Budget: €60-€150
For Children
Ideal Features:
Extended Protection
Bright Colors
Easy to Wear
EN 1078 Certification
Budget: €20-€50
For E-Bikes
Ideal Features:
Enhanced Protection
Visor
Integrated Light
Durability
Budget: €30-€60
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does a helmet expire?
Yes, even if unused. The materials degrade within 3-5 years. Check the production date printed inside.
Can I use a helmet after a fall?
No, even if it appears intact. The internal structures can be damaged. Always replace it after an impact.
How much should a good helmet cost?
A safe and certified helmet starts at €25-30. For sports use, invest €60-100. Top-of-the-line models (€150+) offer lightweight construction and advanced technology.
Should the helmet be tight?
It should fit perfectly without being too tight. It shouldn't move when you shake your head, but it shouldn't cause headaches.
Can I customize my helmet?
Yes, with stickers. Avoid paints or solvents that can damage the materials. Never puncture the helmet.
Are skate helmets suitable for cycling?
No, they have different certifications (EN 1078 vs. EN 1384). Always use a cycling helmet.
How do I choose the color?
Light and bright colors (red, yellow, orange) increase visibility. For sports use, choose based on the type of helmet.
Recommendations for Adults
Although not mandatory, the Highway Code strongly recommends the use of a helmet for all cyclists.
E-Bike
E-bike (25 km/h): helmet not mandatory but recommended
Final Buying Tips
✅ Dos
Always try on a helmet before buying it
Check the CE EN 1078 certification
Choose the correct size by measuring your head
Consider the type of use (city, mountain bike, road)
Invest in a good helmet: it's your safety
Check that straps and buckles work properly
❌ Don'ts
Don't buy helmets without certification
Don't choose a size that's too large or too small
Don't use old or damaged helmets
Don't skimp on safety
Don't buy online without knowing the size
Come and Try on Sergio Bianchi Cycling Helmets
Choosing a helmet is a personal choice and should be done by trying out different models. In our store in Florence you'll find:
✅ Wide selection of helmets for every need
✅ Expert staff for personalized advice
✅ Try before you buy
✅ Competitive prices and guaranteed quality
✅ After-sales service
Visit Our Store
📍 Address: Via San Gallo 42r Florence
📞 Phone: 055 499385
🕐 Hours: Monday to Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
🌐 Email: info@ciclisergiobianchi.it
Conclusion: Safety First
A helmet is the most important investment for your cycling safety. It's not just a legal requirement for young people, but a responsible choice for everyone.
Remember:
A helmet can save your life.
It must be certified and the right size.
It should be replaced after every fall.
Safety is priceless.
Ride safely, ride with a helmet! 🚴🪖