Bicycle Helmet Vs Skateboard Helmet

‍I always assumed that any helmet would do the job of protecting my head. But after some research, I learned that there are some key differences to be aware of.

Bicycle helmets are designed to protect against one major impact, while skateboard helmets are designed to withstand multiple impacts. This is because skateboarders are more likely to fall and hit their head multiple times in one session, whereas a cyclist is more likely to have one major accident.

As someone who values safety, it's important to choose the right helmet for the activity. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why in this article, I'll be breaking down the differences between skate and bike helmets, as well as providing some factors to consider when choosing the right helmet for you. So, let's dive in!

‍Bicycle Helmet: Overview

As a cyclist, safety is my top priority. That's why I always wear a bicycle helmet when I'm out on the road. A bicycle helmet is designed to protect my head from serious injury in the event of an accident.

Material & Design

Bicycle helmets typically have a hard outer shell made of plastic or fiberglass. Inside the shell, there is a layer of foam that helps absorb the impact of a crash.

The foam is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS), which is a lightweight material that can compress and absorb energy.

Fit

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a bicycle helmet is the fit. A helmet that doesn't fit properly won't provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.

It's important to measure your head and choose a helmet that fits snugly without being too tight. Most helmets come with adjustable straps that allow you to customize the fit.

Ventilation

Another important feature to consider is ventilation. A well-ventilated helmet will keep you cool and comfortable on hot days. Look for helmets with plenty of vents that allow air to circulate around your head.

Safety

It's also important to choose a helmet that meets safety standards. In the United States, all bicycle helmets must meet the standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for a sticker inside the helmet that indicates that it meets CPSC standards.

Overall, a bicycle helmet is an essential piece of safety equipment for any cyclist. With the right fit, ventilation, and safety standards, a bike helmet can help protect your head in the event of an accident.

Skateboard Helmet: Overview

As a skateboarder, I know that wearing a helmet is essential for safety. A skateboarding helmet  is designed to protect your head from multiple impacts.

Material & Design

They are made with a hard outer shell and a foam liner that absorbs shock. Skateboard helmets have a round shape and cover the back of your head, making them suitable for the type of falls that skateboarders usually take.

Fit

When choosing a skateboard helmet, it is essential to make sure that it fits correctly. A helmet that is too loose or too tight can be dangerous. It should fit snugly on your head, with the foam liner touching your head all the way around.

Ventilation

They also have fewer vents than bike helmets, which can be beneficial during cold weather. However, the lack of ventilation may not be as favorable in hot conditions.

Safety

It is important to note that skateboard helmets are not suitable for high-speed activities like cycling. They are not designed to withstand the impact of a single high-speed crash, which is why they are not recommended for cycling.

In conclusion, if you are a skateboarder, wearing a helmet is a must. A skateboard helmet is designed to protect your head from multiple impacts, and it should fit correctly for maximum protection. Remember, safety should always come first.

Key Differences Between Bicycle and Skateboard Helmets

As a cyclist and skateboarder, I have come to understand that helmets are essential for both activities.

However, not all helmets are created equal, and there are some key differences between bicycle and skateboard helmets that you should know about.

Material Differences

Bicycle helmets are typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is designed to absorb a single impact.

In contrast, skateboard helmets are made of a harder shell, usually made of ABS plastic, which is designed to withstand multiple impacts. Skateboard helmets also have a thicker outer shell that protects the back of the head better than bicycle helmets.

Design Differences

Bicycle helmets offer more coverage than skateboard helmets, as they are designed to protect the entire head, including the forehead and temples.

Skateboard helmets, on the other hand, are designed to protect the back of the head and the sides, but not the front. Skateboarding helmets also have a more rounded shape that allows for more movement and better visibility.

Safety Standards

Bicycle helmets must comply with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standard, which ensures that they can withstand a single impact.

Skateboard helmets, on the other hand, must comply with the ASTM F1492 standard, which ensures that they can withstand multiple impacts. It is important to note that while skateboard helmets can withstand multiple impacts, they are still designed to be replaced after a significant impact.

Choosing the Right Helmet: Factors to Consider

When it comes to choosing a helmet, there are several factors to consider. As a rider, my safety is my top priority, so I need to ensure that I choose the right helmet.

Here are the factors that I consider when choosing a helmet.

Fit and Comfort

The first factor to consider when choosing a helmet is the fit and comfort. A helmet that doesn't fit correctly can be dangerous, as it can move around and not provide the necessary protection.

I always ensure that I measure my head and choose a helmet size that fits me correctly. Additionally, I look for helmets that have adjustable straps and padding to ensure a comfortable fit.

Ventilation

Another factor to consider when choosing a helmet is ventilation. Riding can be hot and sweaty, so I need a helmet that has adequate ventilation to keep me cool and comfortable.

I look for helmets that have vents that allow air to flow through the helmet, keeping my head cool and dry.  Road bike helmets are particularly good for this feature. However, most mountain bike helmets also have great ventilation.

Weight

The weight of the helmet is also a factor to consider. I don't want a helmet that's too heavy, as it can cause neck strain and fatigue.

I look for helmets that are lightweight but still provide the necessary protection.

Overall, when choosing a helmet, I consider the fit and comfort, ventilation, and weight. By taking these factors into account, I can ensure that I choose a helmet that provides the necessary protection while also being comfortable to wear.

State & Regional Laws on Wearing Appropriate Helmets

Out of 20 states in the US that have mandatory helmet laws for children, helmet use rates were significantly higher in these states compared to states without mandatory helmet laws. Helmet laws are associated with a reduction in head injury rates among children.

However, the impact of helmet laws on the use of skate style helmets is less clear. According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, only a few states in the US have laws requiring skateboard helmets, and these laws are often limited to specific age groups or locations. The report notes that while helmet laws can be an effective way to promote helmet use, they may also face opposition from those who view them as an infringement on personal freedom.

Overall, while helmet laws can be an important factor in promoting helmet use and reducing the risk of head injuries, their impact on the use of bicycle helmets vs skateboard helmets may differ depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of the law.

Common Misconceptions About Helmets

As someone who has been riding bikes and skateboarding for years, I've heard a lot of myths and misconceptions about helmets.

Here are a couple of the most common ones that I've come across:

One Size Fits All

One of the biggest misconceptions about helmets is that they come in a one-size-fits-all design. This is simply not true. Helmets come in a range of sizes, and it's important to find one that fits your head properly.

Wearing a helmet that is too big or too small can be dangerous, as it won't provide the proper protection in the event of a fall.

When shopping for a helmet, make sure to measure your head and choose a size that fits snugly. Most helmets come with adjustable straps to help you get the perfect fit. Don't just assume that any helmet will do – take the time to find one that fits you properly.

All Helmets Provide Same Protection

Another common misconception when deciding between a bicycle helmet vs skateboard helmet is that all helmets provide the same level of protection. While all helmets are designed to protect your head, there are differences in the level of protection they provide.

Bicycle helmets are designed to protect against a single impact, such as a fall from a bike. A skate helmet, on the other hand, is designed to protect against multiple impacts, as skateboarders are more likely to fall and hit their heads repeatedly.

It's important to choose the proper helmet for the activity you're doing. A skateboard helmet may not provide enough protection if you're riding a bike, and vice versa. Make sure to choose a helmet that is designed for the activity you'll be doing.