Helmets

Tips

• Choose the right kind of helmet for the specific sport or transportation activity
• Don't wear a hat, bandana, hair clip, or ponytail under a helmet
• A thin fleece toque under a hockey or ski helmet is ok
• Store helmets away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place
• Don’t use a second-hand helmet
• Never use a bike helmet that has been in a crash, even if you can’t see any damage
• Replace a helmet at least every five years after the manufacturing date or if you see any damage like cracks, worn or torn straps
• When you shake your head, your helmet should stay put and feel comfortably snug.

Finding a helmet that fits

All helmets fit differently. Below are tips for making sure your helmet fits right.

Bicycle Helmets

Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following: Two fingers distance from helmet to eyebrow   V-shape straps around each ear   One finger between chin and fastened strap

Hockey helmets

Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following: One finger between the chinstrap and chin One finger distance from helmet to eyebrow Helmet does not move

 

Recommended helmets for different activities
Activity	Recommended Helmet	Type of Protection	Certification (Canadian, US, European)
Bicycling & Non-motorized scooters	Bicycle helmet	Single impact	CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell
In-line or roller skating	Bicycle / in-line skating or skateboard helmet	Mostly single impact	CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell
BMX cycling	BMX helmet	Single/ Multi impact	ASTM or CPSC
Skateboarding	Skateboard or bicycle helmet	Single/Multi impact	ASTM, Snell, CEN, CSA, CPSC, or ASTM
Ice hockey/ skating	Hockey helmet	Multi impact	CSA
Skiing & Snowboarding	Ski helmet	Single impact	Snell, ASTM, or CSA
Sledding/tobogganing	Hockey or ski helmet	Single / Multi impact	CSA, CPSC or Snell

The instructions and table above are adapted with permission from Ottawa Public Health. For educational and non-commercial purposes only.