Whether children or adults on the bike – a helmet is part of the basic equipment in everyday life. It prevents serious injuries in a collision and protects as a secure shell between the head and the asphalt. However, the bicycle helmet only achieves this effect if it fits appropriately and is optimally adjusted. We’ll show you how to measure head for helmet and bike helmet size chart. And what to look out for when putting it on in the following guide.
You should never run a bicycle without a helmet. After all, even a slight fall is enough to suffer a concussion or a serious head injury during your daily city ride. You can avoid many such injuries with a bicycle helmet. The prerequisite, of course, is that it is appropriately sized and fits well. Only then does it reduce the forces acting on the head in the event of an impact.
Helmets that are too wide slip easily and no longer sit in the places where protection is needed most. It also serves as a sturdy shell between your scalp and the road surface. In the event of an accident, the bicycle helmet has often been responsible for preventing life-threatening injuries and ensuring that the victims have escaped with their scare. So, anyone who pays attention to crumple zones and airbags in the car should also be aware of the protection a bicycle helmet provides.
In addition to safety, comfort depends on helmet size. Helmets that are too tight quickly cause pressure points and leave headaches. As a result, the bike helmet can only be worn for a short time, and you find it difficult to concentrate while riding. Helmets that are too big usually sit loosely and can be turned away or moved with just one hand movement. The same happens, of course, in the event of a collision. The helmet slips and then no longer protects all areas. It also restricts your vision enormously.
How to measure head for helmet? determine size.
The right size for your new bike helmet is always based on the circumference of your head. This means that you must first measure your head for the helmet before buying. And then compare it with the tables of the individual manufacturers. Basically, there are two possibilities:
- Measure the circumference with a measuring tape: You take a common and flexible measuring tape. Now place it at the back of your head, guide it along with your ears and hold it together about 1 to 2 cm above your eyebrows. It must not fall into the neck or sit too far up on the forehead. This is the only way to measure the widest part. Then read the result comfortably.
- Measure circumference with thread: Alternatively, take a thread and apply it the same way. Then simply read off the measured length on a folding rule or use a ruler. Again, your circumference will be your helmet size.
This video shows you exactly how to measure head for helmet:
Right helmet size according to age
Basically, the circumference can be classified in a certain range depending on the age group. Exceptions confirm the rule, of course. A general classification looks as follows:
| Age | Head Circumference |
| 0-3 years | 44-52cm |
| 2 – 7 years | 46-57 cm |
| 5 – 12 years | 52-60cm |
| 12 – 80+ years | 52-65cm |
This table is only a guideline in which range your measured value should lie. Each range includes several values. In addition, the conditions play an important role. For example, they have a larger circumference than women. The next step is to compare the size chart of the manufacturers for the perfect bike helmet.
Helmet size chart at a glance
Most manufacturers designate their helmet sizes in centimeters and the American units XS to XL. But beware: this classification is not prescribed by law and therefore not uniform. What represents size S for one manufacturer may be size M for the next company.
Therefore, always compare with the size table of the respective manufacturer, what the specifications mean in each case and which range might fit you best. The following helmet size chart is only a guide:
| Size | Circumference of the head |
| XXXS | 49-50 cm |
| XXS | 51-52cm |
| XS | 53-54 cm |
| S | 55-56cm |
| M | 57-58cm |
| L | 59-60 cm |
| XL | 61-62cm |
| XXL | 63-64 cm |
Bike helmet size for Kids
Bike helmets for kids usually have a different size classification. Here, the optimal fit is even more important, as the heads of the little ones are still growing and are particularly sensitive. However, the protective function is only guaranteed if the bicycle helmet sits firmly on the head and can no longer be moved. Although most manufacturers have good adjustment options for the fit inside, this does not compensate for incorrect helmet size.
Here, you can determine the optimal size based on the circumference of your head. The tape measure should be at the widest part of the head, pass over the ears and sit in the middle of the forehead. Also, make sure that it does not fall into the neck but lies firmly on the back of the head. Measuring children can sometimes be more difficult. You can set up a GPS Tracker for Bike and Keep an eye on your bike
Helmet size chart for Kids
Therefore, measure several times and then take the average value. Most manufacturers offer their products according to the following helmet size chart:
| Helmet size | Head circumference | Age |
| XS | 44cm – 49cm | 0-3 years |
| S | 46cm – 51cm | 2 – 7 years |
| S/M | 49cm – 53cm | 3 – 9 years |
| M | 52cm – 58cm | From about 4 years |
Kid’s helmets usually have a different shape than adult models. Babies, in particular, are often taken along on the bicycle seat or take a seat in a bicycle trailer. For this purpose, the helmets are slightly flattened at the back for better wearing comfort. In addition, the shape protects the back of the head even better.
The right fit – not too tight and not too wide
Sizes are not the only determining factor for an optimal fit. Some helmets are designed to be slightly narrower or wider due to their manufacturing process. But not all models can be adjusted to your head shape via the adjustment options inside. You should make sure to find a good fit for your head in addition to the correct size. This is especially important for half-shells or skater helmets, which should fit well the first time you try them on.
In addition, it depends on the adjustment system of the manufacturer. Each brand has its principle and lets the bicycle helmet more or less quickly approach your head shape. Usually, there is a ring made of plastic, which can be tightened and tightened via a small dial on the back of the helmet.
So, you notice how the helmet becomes tighter and tighter with each turn. At best, it now only rests against the padded areas of the helmet shell and provides you with a comfortable fit.
Global Cycling Network provides helpful tips in this video on how to put on a bike helmet properly:
Make your helmet fit perfectly – 7 simple tips
You can tell if your bike helmet fits perfectly by looking at the following criteria:
- The front edge of the bicycle helmet should always be flush with the eyebrows or just above them.
- The helmet must not sit crooked or slip too far down the neck. It must be in a horizontal position.
- The forehead should wrinkle slightly when you move the helmet back and forth. Then it has a tight fit.
- Ideally, only the padded areas in the helmet should touch your scalp. Otherwise, there will be unwanted pressure points.
- It should not be possible to turn the helmet sideways. Also, only about a finger of space between your head and the helmet is recommended.
- The straps should converge finger-width below the ear. The strap itself must have a buckle under the chin and not press against the neck.
- Tighten the straps so that there is hardly any slack in the helmet, and the padding fits snugly against the chin. You should leave about a finger of space between the chin and the padding.
Enjoying this guide on the helmet size chart? You can also read Secure your bike using bicycle theft protection
The right helmet size for eyeglass users
Spectacle wearers can also find suitable bicycle helmet sizes for themselves. The glasses do not have to be taken into account at first when it comes to head circumference and size. Simply measure as described and then try the first helmet. The fit of the model is rather decisive here.
Finally, the glasses should sit usually and rest on the nose, even with a bicycle helmet. For example, if they are pushed upwards, the result is a distorted view of the road. In addition, the glasses frame then leaves unfavorable pressure marks.
The fit of downhill and full-face helmets
Open helmets are usually easier to choose in their fit than downhill and full-face helmets. Here, a fitting is essential, as the models cover the head area and face significantly more. They also have a different adjustment system inside, and the bike size chart is more tightly knit. The fit is often only adjustable by pads, so the size itself must fit you perfectly.
Customer opinions and tips
The helmet size plays a vital role in pleasant wearing comfort. At best, you do not feel the helmet even on longer tours. Especially children should not feel disturbed by the helmet due to the wrong size. If they hardly notice the model, there will be no discussion when riding with a helmet, and your children will have a bit more safety. But especially with children’s helmets, you should check the correct size regularly. Otherwise, you will notice the jump to the next helmet size too late.
Replacement of bicycle helmets is recommended after three to four years. Usually, the materials have worn out after this time and can no longer withstand the stress of an accident. Inside the helmet, you will always find a small plate the size of an inscription. In addition, you should regularly check the date of manufacture of the helmet.
General instructions – wear the bike helmet correctly:
- Place the helmet horizontally on your head. You must cover the back of the head, temples and a large part of the forehead.
- Now tighten the helmet using the adjustment system. Ideally, you will have adjusted it to your exact fit beforehand.
- Check the length of the straps on the right and left sides of the helmet. Move the small clamp on the straps up to under the ear to the cheekbone.
- The helmet should fit tightly even with the buckle open and should not slip or turn sideways.
- Close the chin strap and leave some space up to the chin. Straps that are too long can now be removed or firmly secured to the helmet.
Advantages and disadvantages of the right helmet size
Conclusion of the helmet size chart
Take your time when choosing the right bike helmet size. First, measure the circumference of the head and then compare it with the tables of the manufacturers. You will quickly see that there are big differences here. Once the right size is found, you must check only the fit before buying.
Only a tight-fitting helmet offers you sufficient protection in a fall or accident. However, it should not be too tight or leave headaches while driving. You have found the fitting helmet when you feel comfortable with the model, even after long distances.
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