High-velocity sports such as bicycling or skiing offer participants the thrill of speed but often come with risk of injury. Wearing a helmet offers protection to cyclists and skiers and may reduce the risk associated with impact injuries to the head. However, like most sports-specific equipment, helmets are similarly designed: Engineered to protect the wearer from injuries likely to occur while skiing or bicycling.
Function
While bike helmets are not intended for skiers and ski helmets are not intended cyclists, both types of helmets serve the same function: To spread the sudden force across a large surface area to dissipate the energy of the impact. Both types of helmets should also be light, adjustable and include a solid chin strap to hold it in place. The outer surface of the helmet should be smooth to prevent it from catching in a crash.
Shape and Coverage
Bicycle helmets are rounded in the front with the back of the helmet extended slightly beyond the skull. The shape optimizes aerodynamics, or reduces wind resistance. The front of a bicycle helmet should fall halfway down your forehead and the back of the helmet should line up with the base of the skull. Ski helmets come in three styles: Full shell, ¾ shell and full face, or competition helmets. Full shell helmets provide coverage to the ear and shield the rider from wind and weather. Three-quarter shell helmets are less constrictive than full shell, include soft removable ear flaps and offer comparable safety protection.
Fit
Bike and ski helmets should fit snugly against the whole circumference of the head. This will prevent the helmets from shifting forward, affecting sight or backward exposing the forehead. The chin strap is intended to hold the helmet in place by forming a "Y" shape below the ears. If fitted properly, your helmet should not move while shaking your head.
Venting
Ventilation is important in a helmet regardless of use. Vents promote air flow to keep the head cool during activity. Bicycle helmets typically have more vents than ski helmets. Some ski helmets allow the user to open and close the vents allowing the skier to protect against extreme temperatures and weather.
Ratings
All bike helmets sold in the U.S. must be approved by the Consumer Products Safety Commission. Ski helmets standards are governed by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
Considerations
Whether you are choosing a bike helmet or a ski helmet, you should pick a helmet that is comfortable and fits the shape of your head. While color and style are not important when it comes to safety, purchasing a helmet in a color and style you like will ensure you wear it while enjoying your sport of choice.
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