What's the difference between helmets and how do you find the right fit for you?:
There are two basic types of helmets. Single impact and multi-impact helmets.
Single impact helmets:
Single impact helmets are made for sports where crashing rarely happens such as bicycling. They are good for one major impact. These
helmets are made with expanded polystyrene (also know as EPS). EPS is
lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to manufacture. On the first major
impact the helmet loses its ability to protect because of the fact
that the material has little to no rebound. So while still better
than nothing, if you crashed and hit your head on the exact same spot,
there would be no material to absorb the impact. Single impact
helmets manage a MAJOR crash better than a multi-impact helmet but
then are rendered useless.
Multi-impact helmets:
Multi-impact helmets are longer lasting because they are made with a denser, but “squishy” foam called butyl nitrate. Butyl nitrate is
heavier and provides more rebound so that after an impact the material
springs back close to its original form. These helmets are ideal for
sports where crashing and impact are frequent such as snowboarding and
skateboarding. These multi-impact helmets, while good for multiple crashes don’t manage MAJOR impacts as well as a single impact helmet
would.
Proper fit:
The key to maximum protection and comfort is proper fit. To property
fit a helmet on your head you want it to be comfortably snug but not
tight. The helmet should come in contact with your head all the way around and there should be no room for movement. The helmet shouldsit on your head level and as low as possible as to provide maximum coverage. Some helmets come with adjustable pads that can be moved around to maximize the fit and comfort. The final step in properly fitting a helmet is to adjust the straps.
The Y of the side straps should come together just below the ear. The chinstrap should be snug on the underside of your chin. If it is uncomfortable then it’s too ight. When properly adjusted, if you open your mouth wide you should feel the helmet pull down on your head. Wearing the chinstrap is a must! Without it the helmet wont stay on your head in the event of a violent crash.
to find a helmet for you go to: http://www.allsportprotection.com/
