Any bike helmet you consider purchasing for your child should meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission, or CPSC, safety standards, which will be noted on the label. The CPSC standards measure impact absorption. If your child races in BikeMotoCross, or BMX, you should look for a helmet specifically designed for the extreme sport. For the best protection, look for a helmet that has retention-system strength--straps that will resist stretching and will keep the helmet in place. Check the fit of the helmet for front-to-back or side-to-side movement, since it must fit the child's head snugly for the greatest measure of safety. Try on several helmets to get the best fit; bike helmets fit each head differently. Some companies offer a replacement trade-in discount policy if you replace your child's helmet after an accident. A replacement policy may add to the original price of the helmet, but it may save money in the long run, since a helmet that has been crashed should be replaced for utmost protection.
Mongoose BMX Hardshell MG-119
This Mongoose BMX hardshell MG-119 helmet is priced at $17.99 in June 2010. Rated by Consumer Reports, it is styled for "multi-sport," which includes BMX riding. It has good ventilation properties and is lightweight. Available in a universal youth size, your child should try on the Mongoose BMX and you should adjust all straps in the store to make sure it fits properly. This model has no visor or chin/mouth guard.
PRO BMX Junior Bike Helmet
The PRO BMX junior bike helmet was designed to look like the helmets the big riders wear, with reduced weight so a young rider can wear it comfortably without fatigue. It is specially made to fit a child's smaller head, neck and shoulders, with a full face protective molded visor and chin/mouth guard. This helmet has extra padding and extra fit pads, plus extra strong straps and D-ring buckles. As of June 2010, it retails for $54.95.
THE ONE Youth Composite Helmet
For the true youth BMX enthusiast, THE ONE youth composite helmet will protect in comfort and style. This helmet has air tunnels that connect the vents to channel air in the front of the helmet and out the back, keeping the wearer cool. The liner's advanced design gives superior fit and safety, and it has a removable, washable cover. The full face protection includes a visor and chin/mouth guard. The list price in June 2010 is $199.99.
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