The Importance of Protecting Your Brain While BMX Riding
BMX riding is an exhilarating and exciting sport that involves various stunts, tricks, and jumps. However, it can also be a very dangerous activity. According to a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics, BMX biking is one of the most common causes of sports-related head injuries in children and adolescents. that’s why you need BMX Helmets that will offer maximum protection for your noggin.
Injuries sustained from falls can result in long-term effects such as concussions, brain damage or even death. Therefore, it is important to wear proper protective gear when engaging in this activity.
The most critical piece of protective gear for any BMX rider is their helmet. A good quality helmet will help protect your head against injuries if you fall or crash while riding.
The Different Types of BMX Helmets Available
There are two main types of BMX helmets available – full-face helmets and half-shell helmets. Full-face helmets offer the most protection as they cover your entire face and head.
Full-Face helmets are commonly used by downhill racers and freeriders who require maximum protection from impacts at high speeds. However, they may not be well-suited for riders who prefer more freedom of movement or those participating in less intense forms of BMX riding.
Half-shell helmets are lightweight and provide partial protection covering only the top part of your head. They are popular among park riders who do not require as much protection against high-speed impacts but still want some level of safety when performing tricks.
Choosing the right type of helmet depends on personal preference, riding style and level of risk. Whatever type of helmet you choose, make sure it meets safety standards and fits properly to provide maximum protection for your head.
Types of BMX Helmets
Full-Face Helmets: Protection at Its Finest
When it comes to protecting your face and chin during intense BMX rides, full-face helmets are the way to go. They offer maximum protection for the entire head, including the jawline and chin.
These helmets have a sturdy chin guard that covers the lower half of the face and provides much-needed protection in case of an accident. Full-face helmets are commonly used by professional BMX riders who perform high-risk stunts.
However, full-face helmets do come with a few disadvantages. They can be heavy and bulky, making them uncomfortable for some riders, especially during hot summer days.
They also tend to be more expensive than other types of BMX helmets due to their added features and superior safety. But if you’re looking for maximum protection during high-risk rides, then a full-face helmet is definitely worth investing in.
Half-Shell Helmets: Lighter Protection Option
Half-shell helmets are another popular option among BMX riders because they provide good protection while still being lightweight. These helmets cover the top and sides of your head but don’t offer any protection for your face or chin.
Half-shell helmets are great for riders who want some protection but don’t necessarily need the full-face or open-face design. The advantages of half-shell helmets include their light weight, affordability compared to other models, and good ventilation due to their open design.
However, they do have some disadvantages – they offer less protection than full-face or open-face models since they don’t protect your face or jawline from injury in case of an accident. So if you’re a professional rider performing high-risk stunts, a half-shell helmet may not provide enough protection for you.
Features to Look for in a BMX Helmet
Safety Certifications (e.g. CPSC, ASTM)
When it comes to protecting your brain while BMX riding, safety certifications are one of the most important features to look for in a helmet. Two common safety certifications that you will often see are CPSC and ASTM. The CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) is a U.S. government agency that sets standards for bicycle helmets and tests them to ensure they meet those standards.
The ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) is an international organization that develops and publishes technical standards for various products, including helmets. When purchasing a BMX helmet, make sure it has at least one of these safety certifications stamped on the inside or outside of the helmet.
This ensures that the helmet has been tested and meets certain safety standards. It’s important not to skimp on this feature as it could mean the difference between a minor bump on the head and a serious brain injury.
Fit and Comfort (e.g. Adjustable Straps, Padding)
A properly fitting helmet is crucial when it comes to protecting your brain while BMX riding. A loose-fitting helmet can shift or come off during an impact, while a tight-fitting helmet can be uncomfortable and cause headaches or pressure points.
Look for helmets with adjustable straps that allow you to customize the fit around your chin and ears. Some helmets also have additional padding inserts that can be added or removed depending on your head shape.
Before purchasing a BMX helmet, try it on in-store if possible or measure your head circumference at home using a tape measure. Refer to manufacturer size charts when purchasing online as sizes may vary between brands.
Ventilation (e.g. Number and Size of Vents)
BMX riding can be physically demanding which means you’ll likely work up a sweat. Ventilation is an important feature to consider as it helps keep your head cool and comfortable during long rides.
Look for BMX helmets with ample ventilation in the form of large vents that allow air to flow through the helmet. Keep in mind that more vents doesn’t always mean better ventilation.
The size and location of the vents can also impact how effective they are at keeping your head cool. Some helmets have strategically placed vents that channel air through the helmet while minimizing wind noise and drag.
Weight
The weight of a BMX helmet can be a crucial factor, especially for those who plan on wearing their helmet for extended periods of time. A heavy helmet can cause neck strain and fatigue, which can be detrimental when performing technical maneuvers or high-speed jumps.
Look for BMX helmets made with lightweight materials such as carbon fiber or polycarbonate. Keep in mind that lighter helmets may come at a higher price point, but investing in a high-quality, lightweight helmet could make all the difference when it comes to comfort and safety.
Visor
A visor is an optional feature found on some BMX helmets. A visor can help shield your eyes from the sun or rain while riding, providing better visibility on bright days or when it’s raining. Some BMX riders prefer not to wear a visor as it can create additional wind resistance and interfere with peripheral vision.
If you choose to purchase a BMX helmet with a visor, look for one that is adjustable or removable so you can customize it based on weather conditions or personal preference. Keep in mind that not all helmets come with this feature so make sure to check before purchasing if this is something you want included in your helmet.
Top-Rated BMX Helmets on the Market
Now that we have discussed the different types of BMX helmets and features to look for, let’s take a look at some of the best BMX helmets available on the market today. We’ve compiled a list of popular brands such as Bell, Fox, Giro, and more.
First up is the Bell Sanction helmet. This full-face helmet is designed for aggressive riding with its lightweight fiberglass shell and MIPS technology for added protection against rotational forces during an impact.
The ventilation system ensures air flows freely through the helmet to keep you cool during those intense sessions at the park or on trails. It also features a removable/washable liner for easy maintenance.
Next on our list is Fox Proframe full-face helmet. This helmet offers excellent protection while still being lightweight and comfortable.
The injection-molded chin guard provides extra coverage without sacrificing breathability thanks to its 24 Big Bore vents strategically placed throughout the helmet. The interior padding also includes an anti-microbial treatment to help prevent odors and bacteria buildup over time.
we have Giro Switchblade MIPS helmet which has multiple certifications including CPSC, ASTM downhill, and ASTM F1952-15 DH MTB with a chin guard that can be removed quickly with no tools required so you can switch between full-face mode or half-shell mode depending on your needs that day. It also comes with POV Plus visor which can be adjusted up or down by 20 degrees to accommodate goggles easily.
We have Bell Stoker MIPS half-shell helmet that provides excellent value for money with its combination of high-end features like Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) technology without breaking your bank account! With 13 strategically placed vents throughout this half-shell design means you’ll stay cool even during hot summer days riding around town or cruising down a dirt trail.
Comparison Chart Highlighting Key Features for Optimal Protection
To make it easier for you to compare these top-rated BMX helmets, we’ve created this handy comparison chart.
All of these helmets are full face and will protect you the most.
| Brand | Type | Safety Certifications | Ventilation | Weight |
| Bell | Sanction | CPSC, ASTM | 15 vents | 850 g |
| Fox | Proframe | CPSC, ASTM | 24 vents | 750 g |
| Giro | Switchblade | CPSC ASTM downhill | 20 vents | 975 g |
| Bell | 3R MIPS | CPSC, CE | 13 vents | 345 g |
As you can see from the chart above, each of these helmets has a different set of features and benefits.
It is important to carefully consider what type of riding you will be doing most often and choose a helmet that best suits your needs. Don’t skimp on safety – invest in the best BMX helmet you can afford to protect your brain while enjoying this thrilling sport!
How to Properly Fit a BMX Helmet
Getting the right fit for your BMX helmet is crucial for ensuring maximum protection. A helmet that’s too loose can easily come off during an impact, while one that’s too tight can cause discomfort and restrict blood flow to your head. Here are some easy steps to help you get the perfect fit for your BMX helmet:
Step-by-step instructions on how to measure your head for helmet size
The first step in getting the right fitting BMX helmet is measuring your head. To do this, you’ll need a soft tape measure.
Place it about an inch above your eyebrows and wrap it around the widest part of your head, which is usually at the level of the temples. Make sure you don’t pull too tightly or leave any slack in the tape measure.
Once you have measured around your head, take note of the measurement and refer to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer of your preferred BMX helmet brand. Different brands have different sizing charts so double check with each brand before purchasing.
Tips on how to adjust straps and padding for a secure fit
Now that you’ve got an idea of what size you need, it’s time to put on your new helmet and make sure it fits securely. Start by placing the front edge of the helmet about 1 inch above your eyebrows then fasten up all chinstraps making sure they are not twisted. Adjusting chinstrap: If there’s too much slack between chinstrap and chin, adjust until there’s no more than one finger space between them when fastened under jaw.
Adjusting side straps: The side straps should form a straight line from just below each earlobe across both sides of jawbone then around ears inletting into buckle so they lay flat against cheekbones without twisting. Adjusting rear band: Gently pull helmet backwards and forwards on your head to find the balance point where it’s level.
Then adjust the rear band so that it fits snugly around the back of your head at about 1 inch above the nape of your neck, ensuring that it’s not too tight or loose. Adjusting padding: Many BMX helmets come with additional padding that can be attached via Velcro.
This is useful for fine-tuning the fit and ensuring there are no pressure points on your head that could cause discomfort during long rides. Add or remove padding as needed until you achieve a comfortable, secure fit.
With these simple steps you’ll be able to properly fit your BMX helmet to ensure maximum protection while riding. Remember that a well-fitted BMX helmet is an essential part of staying safe on two wheels!
Frequently Asked Questions about BMX Helmets
Can I use a skateboarding helmet for BMX riding?
No, you should not use a skateboarding helmet for BMX riding. While both sports involve similar movements and tricks, they have different types of impacts.
Skateboarding helmets are designed to protect against impact from straight falls while BMX helmets are designed to protect against multi-directional impacts that can occur during trick riding. Additionally, skateboarding helmets do not have the same safety certifications as BMX helmets and may not provide adequate protection.
How often should I replace my helmet?
It is recommended that you replace your helmet every 5 years or after any impact, regardless of whether or not there is visible damage. The foam inside the helmet can degrade over time and lose its ability to absorb impact, making it less effective in protecting your head. Even if your helmet has never been in an accident, it is important to replace it after 5 years as a precautionary measure.
Can I customize my helmet with stickers or paint?
Yes! Many riders like to personalize their helmets with stickers or paint to make them stand out on the track. However, it is important to keep in mind that any modifications or alterations made to the helmet could affect its safety performance.
Make sure that any stickers or paint used do not cover up vents or obscure any safety certifications on the helmet. Also, be sure to check with the manufacturer’s guidelines before making any modifications.
Conclusion
Protecting your brain while BMX riding is crucial for staying safe on the track and preventing serious head injuries. Choosing the right type of BMX helmet with proper fit and safety features can greatly reduce your risk of injury during tricks and stunts.
Remember to follow proper care guidelines for your helmet such as replacing it after 5 years or after any impact. And don’t forget to have fun and show off your personal style by customizing your helmet with stickers or paint!
