Snowboard helmets - How to choose snowboard helmets

Some even allow you to connect your iPod to it such that you can skate to some really awesome tunes. How cool is that! It is important that you choose the right type of snowboarding helmet. There are a couple of factors that you should consider when it comes to choosing one. The price, type, design, fit and certification are all some of the significant factors that you should consider.

Components of snowboard helmets

Snowboard helmets are constructed in such a way that they can handle the roughest and the toughest of obstacles. Be it ice, trees or rocks your head is guaranteed maximum protection.

The outer layer of the helmet is known as the shell. It is rigid thanks to its high impact plastic nature. The main function of the shell is to protect the head from injuries. It is also useful in spreading the impact energy over a larger surface in the case of a fall. Through this one is less likely to get badly hurt. The inner part of the helmet composed of expanded polystyrene material.

This material absorbs all the impact and in the process reduces the chances of brain damages. Helmets are built to last generally for upto 3years. In the event of a hard fall you should replace it immediately. Make sure you constantly check it for abrasions and dents.

Types of snowboarding helmets

The type of helmet to get depends on the kind of snowboarding you intend to do. If you are all about recreational and all-mountain snowboarding then you should get the three-quarter shell helmet. This specific type will protect top part, sides and the back of your head. This type normally coms in a bucket-shaped shell which is either made up of ABS plastic, polycarbonate plastic, carbon fiber or fiberglass composite.

For those who are into the more serious high speed kind of snowboarding, then for the sake of your skull get a full face snowboarding helmet. This type has a chin bar that will protect parts of your face such as the chin jaw and the cheeks. It is also equipped with a visor to shield your eyes from the sun and tree branches. The full face snowboard helmets are made up of a thin, hard exterior shell which may be made from polycarbonate plastic, fiberglass composite or carbon fiber.

Types of construction

There are normally two types of snowboarding helmet constructions:
1. Hardshell ABS construction
2. In-mold construction

Hard-shell ABS Construction

Many lower and mid-priced helmets have this type of construction. They tend to be a bit heavier and are made up of a tough ABS shell. They are cheaper and have less venting abilities.

In-mold construction

Features to consider

Vents

Audio

Hard storage case

This feature is sold separately from the helmet. Its main purpose is to keep your helmet looking new and shiny. It provides protection from scratches and abrasiveness.

Liners

The main purpose of the liners is to allow you to adjust the level of warmth that you need. The removable ones can be washed.

Goggle compatibility

Safety requirements

All snowboarding helmets are supposed to meet a certain safety specification. This is from the American Society for Testing and Materials and the European Committee for Standardization. The ASTM is the most popular certification. It covers recreational snowboarding helmets. The CE EN is a European certification covering alpine skiing and snowboarding helmets.

Getting the right fit

When buying a snowboarding helmet you should try fitting it at the store. Find one that is comfortable and fits just right. You can bring your goggles and try fitting with them so as to have a better understanding of how it really fits.
One way of finding a helmet your size is by measuring your head with a tape measure. Use it to measure the largest part of your head so as to be able to know your head's circumference.

If you want to know whether a helmet is a good fit it should not feel too tight or loose. It should be snug. If it rocks to and from or shifts when you shake your head then it is loose. A fitting helmet should also leave no gap between it and the top part of your goggles. There should also be no gaps whatsoever between the lining of the helmet and your head.

Pricing

The prices of snowboards helmets are based on the features such as the type and number of vents, the type of construction, the fit system and the liner interior. The most expensive ones have many different features with advanced technology while the cheaper ones are simple and ideal snowboard helmets for beginners.