Did you know that it is mandatory to wear a helmet while cycling on the roads in Singapore? We highly recommend wearing one at all times on a bike. Here's how to choose the most suitable one for yourself!
First off, you should choose a helmet based on two criteria: your usage and your head size.
There are different kinds of helmets depending on the kind of cycling you do: city, countryside, all terrain or road.
Each discipline has its own kind of helmet, but all helmets comply with the same safety requirements to guarantee the same level of protection.
Swipe left to discover the different types of helmets you will need for the bike you own!
City or hybrid bike helmets
May be more suited to being stored in a basket or on your handlebars as it is likely to be made from ABS - a sturdy plastic that means the helmet can be used often.
Certain helmets also have a place for attaching a VIOO Clip - a small light that shows other road users where you are.
Road bike helmets
These will be lighter, well-ventilated, and fitting. The very best helmets are the ones with the best balance of these three criteria (the helmet may be slightly lighter if it doesn't have many options for holding it in place).
The number of vents isn't the only factor to take into account - they also need to be carefully located.
Mountain bike helmets
Has the same characteristics as a road cycling helmet. However, there are a few additional requirements: it needs to cover your whole head in order to protect you from branches and any falls, as the risk of taking a tumble is much greater in this discipline.
Pro-tip: A helmet with a visor helps to protect from mud!
Kids' helmets
Will be suitable for all children up to 9 years old. From ages 10 onwards, an adult helmet will be needed.
Cycling helmets for kids aged 1 - 3 are more compact and shorter at the back, which makes them more suitable for child seats. This type of helmet can also be used by children riding a balance bike.
Kids' helmets from 3 - 9 years resemble adult helmets. It's best to get a helmet with an adjustment wheel at the back so that you can achieve the best possible fit on your child's head.
Your helmet needs to be the right size for both comfort and effectiveness in the event of an accident. It's not rocket science - to do this, you'll need to measure your head size.
But whatever the measurement, you should always try on your helmet before purchase! Everyone's head is different and the type of helmet (longer, rounder, more curved, etc.) will affect how comfortable you feel.
This is why, if it's a better fit, it might be best to get a helmet that isn't necessarily the usual style for the kind of activity you are doing.
Swipe left to discover the three criteria you'll need to consider to choose the best fit for you.
Size
Your cycling shop probably has a measuring device for you to use. If not, measure your head size or your child's at home using a flexible measuring tape.
This measurement will tell you whether you need to look at S, M or L helmets (you'll find size charts in your local store).
Dividers
You should also think about the dividers (found on the straps by your neck). When correctly adjusted, they will stop your helmet from moving about.
Adjustment
Adjusting your helmet correctly will make it more comfortable.
If you want your helmet to be a good fit, use the adjustment wheel at the back of the helmet, if you have one.
The structure of a helmet changes with time, which is why cycling helmets have a limited lifespan.
Remember to change your helmet every 3 to 5 years depending on how much you use it. You should definitely change it if you have a fall.
