How do I choose a ski or snowboard helmet?
When skiing or snowboarding, wearing a helmet is essential for your safety. It is even more important that the helmet fits properly to be effective even during the most spectacular falls. This comprehensive Speck-Sports guide will help you choose the right size helmet.
A closer look at the criteria for choosing a ski or snowboard helmet
Choosing your alpine ski helmet is not a trivial matter, and every factor must be taken into account. In order to be protected while wearing a comfortable helmet, it is essential that it fits properly. Here are the six key criteria for choosing your ski or snowboard helmet:
- Quality and material: the outer shell of the helmet must be of good quality to ensure durability. The choice of inner foam is also important. There are two main types of foam: EPS foam, which absorbs shocks while being lightweight but deforms slightly, and EPP foam, which does not deform.
- Applicable standards: when buying a ski or snowboard helmet, make sure it complies with European standard NF ( or CE) EN 1077.
-Your head size: You need to know your head circumference to choose your helmet. Also remember to check the edges of the helmet. The front should reach the middle of your forehead and the back should not interfere with your neck.
- Ventilation: often overlooked, a ventilation system is essential for your comfort. There are several types of ventilation, from the lightest to the most effective, to regulate the temperature and circulate air inside your helmet.
- Weight: in addition to different ventilation systems, not all helmets are manufactured in the same way. The lighter the helmet, the more comfortable it will be to wear all day long. The weight of the helmet will also depend on its construction.
- Options: all kinds of technologies ranging from safety to comfort are available. From integrated visors for a panoramic view to built-in audio systems.
Note: it is essential to wear ski goggles to avoid being blinded by the brightness on the slopes. Also, check that your goggles are compatible with your helmet before purchasing the latter.
Size guide for choosing your ski helmet
The right size ski helmet is essential to ensure your safety. A helmet that is too loose will not be effective, while one that is too tight will be uncomfortable. To choose the right size ski helmet, you will need to know one thing: your head circumference.
Men's and women's ski helmets
Adult ski helmet sizes are divided into 5 categories, from XS to XL, depending on your head circumference. However, please note that these sizes may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer. Be sure to check the size guides for each brand.
| Helmet size | Head circumference (cm) |
| XS | <52 |
| S | 52 - 56 |
| M | 56-59 |
| L | 59-62 |
| XL | 62-64 |
Discover our men's helmets Discover our women's helmets
How to choose for juniors?
As with adults, choosing the size of a ski helmet for juniors is based on head circumference. However, sizes vary depending on the brand. Below is a table of junior ski helmet sizes.
| Helmet size | Head circumference (cm) |
| XS | 46-48 |
| S | 48-53 |
| M | 53-56 |
How to measure your head size
It is essential to measure your head circumference correctly to ensure a good fit. You can find the tools you need to do this in one of our stores. Alternatively, you can do it yourself at home with a tape measure. Place the tape measure above your eyebrows and wrap it around your head, keeping it horizontal and passing it over your ears.
Ski helmet adjustments
There are three adjustment systems for your ski or snowboard helmet. From basic to advanced, there's something for everyone.
First and foremost: the adjustment strap
While there are several adjustment systems at the back of the helmet, they all come with an adjustment strap below your chin. This allows the helmet to be clipped in place. It is present and adjustable on all models.
The adjustment wheel
Most ski helmets have an adjustment knob. This is located on the back of the helmet, and can be adjusted simply by turning the knob. Simple and practical, it ensures that the helmet fits snugly around your neck. What's more, there are several types of knob, some of which go all the way round the head, while the classic ones remain on a rear adjustment. This system is very practical and easy to use.
Discovering Custom air
Custom air is a highly specific system designed exclusively by Salomon. It adjusts the helmet by means of a small pump at the back of the helmet. This pump tightens the helmet by adding air. This system allows you to adjust the helmet with precision and great comfort! The air cushion ensures a secure fit without pressure points.
New technology: automatic adjustment
Automatic adjustment means you don't have to worry about adjusting the helmet every time you put it on. This system is built with elastics all around that adjust to your head. This provides an ideal fit that adjusts and adapts to your every move.
The different ventilation modes for your ski or snowboard helmet
Fixed ventilation
Almost all models feature a ventilation system. Fixed ventilation ensures constant air circulation throughout the day. A minimum of 4 vents is considered an effective ventilation system. The higher the number of vents, the better the ventilation.
Adjustable ventilation
With adjustable ventilation systems, you have the choice of manually opening or closing your system according to your needs and the weather. This way, you're protected from the elements, while still enjoying good air circulation on sunny days. The choice is yours!
Multi-position ventilation
Probably the most advanced system, multi-position ventilation lets you fine-tune the ventilation of your helmet. It often comes with multiple vents for maximum efficiency. Completely closed, open or partially open, this system lets you choose what suits you best! Some models also allow you to adjust the front and back of the helmet independently.
Building your model: what type of ski helmet do you need?
Helmets come in a variety of designs, offering different advantages. But it's importa nt to know that they all have to comply with European NF (or CE) EN 1077 or American ASTM F-2040 standards . These standards determine a basic quality that is essential for your protection.
ABS construction
ABS construction is widely used. It provides maximum protection against impact thanks to an outer shell made of hard ABS (plastic). The inner EPS foam is also highly effective at absorbing and distributing impact. However, this type of foam is still deformable. ABS construction helmets are generally available at low prices. The only drawback to this construction is that it makes the helmet slightly heavier.
In-Mold construction
With their airy construction, In-Mold models are very light. The thin outer shell is moulded directly to an EPS foam to create a compact, lightweight helmet! However, this lightness comes at a price: these helmets are less resistant to impact. So choose a more robust helmet for children. Note that this type of helmet must be changed after a fall, otherwise it will no longer be effective.
Hybrid construction
The Hybrid construction, which combines the strength of ABS models with the lightness of In-Mold models, will have everyone in agreement! Hybrid models feature ABS construction on the upper part of the helmet for shock absorption. The lower part of the helmet is made of In-Mold for added lightness without compromising on strength.
MIPS construction
Designed to protect you from side impacts, MIPS construction absorbs the impact when you fall at an angle. This construction provides great protection for the brain by reducing impact and diffusing it. This reduces the force of rotation very effectively. Lightweight and tough, MIPS construction ticks all the boxes to give you the best protection. This technology is found mainly on top-of-the-range models.
Equipment
Different helmet models go hand in hand with all kinds of different equipment. These combine the useful with the pleasurable, and also give you better protection!
The essential ski mask
Skiing without a mask is unthinkable! That's why we offer a wide selection of ski masks. But which type to choose? The first criterion is compatibility with your helmet, so as not to leave marks on your face. Remember to choose a padded, ventilated mask for greater comfort. Important to know: masks with photochromic filters adapt to light conditions to give you the best visibility, whatever the conditions.
Take the integrated visor plunge!
If you're fed up with your mask flying backwards as soon as you lift it, then maybe the integrated visor is for you! As the name suggests, the visor is an integral part of your helmet, in an all-in-1 system. The visor gives you panoramic vision, and eliminates the need to choose a mask that fits perfectly over your helmet. Some models feature photochromic visors. Others offer two interchangeable visors, one for sunny days and the other for overcast skies. The integrated visor is revolutionary for spectacle wearers! It's also practical for children who tend to misplace or lose their ski goggles.
Protection: what are rigid ears?
Category A helmets with rigid ears offer greater protection and support. Rigid ears are simply an extension of the helmet's outer shell to cover your ears. Often intended for competitors, this type of helmet provides complete protection that you don't necessarily need if your use is purely recreational.
Innovation: integrated headphones
You can now listen to your music even on the slopes, thanks to helmets with integrated audio! Several systems are available with different sound qualities, so check directly with each product. If you don't specifically want to buy headphones with built-in audio, you can buy both separately. Simply check the compatibility of your headphones with an audio system before you buy.
Now you've got all the keys you need to choose the perfect helmet and make your day on the slopes - safely!
If you're looking for a specific helmet or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our team for more information!
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