The Best BMX Helmets

The Best BMX Helmets
Photo Credit teen in helmet image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com

What To Look For

When buying a helmet for BMX riding, you want to consider fit first. To find your correct helmet size, measure your head's circumference at the largest point using a soft tape measure. Helmets are sized by centimeters. Make sure your helmet has a sticker inside denoting that it meets CPSC standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission, or CPSC, tests helmets for safety before approving them.

Common Pitfalls

It is not uncommon for people to use the wrong style of helmet when riding BMX. BMX helmet are designed differently than other bicycle helmets. They are typically stronger and offer more coverage around the back and sides of your head. They come in two styles--full-face and bowl. Full-face helmets are more appropriate for BMX racing and a bowl helmet is better for tricks.

Where To Buy

BMX helmets are sold online and in departments stores, bike shops and sporting goods stores. Considering the fact that helmets are approved for safety, it is entirely possible to get a safe BMX helmet at a discount department store like Wal-Mart. If you are looking for a higher quality helmet that is designed for both safety and comfort, you are best served going to a sporting goods store like REI.

Cost

A low-end BMX helmet will cost between $15 to $30. A high end BMX helmet can cost anywhere from $30 to $150. The Bell Faction Multi-Sport Helmet is a bowl style that rates well with consumers and cost about $40. The Bell Drop Bike Helmet is a full-face style that rates well and costs about $130.

References

Article reviewed by Steve Wozniak Last updated on: Dec 8, 2010

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