Q.
How can I extend the life of my bike helmet?
A.
Clean off any dust or mud with a damp cloth. Do not use any cleaners or
solvents, as these may degrade the outer shell or inner foam layer. Store
your helmet indoors away from extreme heat or cold.
Q.
How do I select the correct size of helmet?
A.
Some helmets are "one size fits most" while others come in
Small, Medium, Large, etc. The sizes have a recommended range based on
the circumference of your head, as measured just above your ears and
eyebrows, but these ranges vary from one brand to another. The best way
to find the correct fit is to try them on in person in our stores and see
what feels best for you!
Q.
Do more expensive helmets provide better protection?
A.
In general, no. Bike helmets sold in the United States must all meet the
same standard of protection as tested by the Consumer Product Safety
Commission. What you get when you pay more is lighter weight, better
ventilation, better fit, more features, and better style (and of course,
style is all a matter of preference).
Q.
What's the difference between a road bike helmet and a mountain bike
helmet?
A.
Most road bike helmets do not have the sun visor, as it tends to block
your view somewhat when riding in the more aggressive position of a road
bike. Helmets with a sun visor provide some shade when riding in the more
upright position of a mountain bike or hybrid bike. Mountain bike
specific helmets extend lower on the back of your head, to provide more
protection for this area, as it tends to be impacted more in mountain
biking crashes. For extreme mountain biking, you can get helmets with
full face protection. Generally, though, road and mountain biking helmet
styles are a matter of tradition, and you can wear whatever helmet you
want for either type of riding. Any protection is better than none!
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