Top 5 Reasons To Replace Your Old Helmet

Dont End Up Like This Guy 

1.The Rule of Thumb and Manufacturer's directions are to replace every 5 years

Over time, the materials that make up the helmet break down, causing the helmet to lose some of it's impact-absorbing ability - putting you at risk!

And it's not so they can sell a bunch of new ones. It's because the materials in a helmet break down over that time causing the helmet to lose some of it's impact-absorbing ability, which means in a crash, you're at risk!

2. Helmets are constantly improving. 

Today's designs are drastically superior (and typically way cooler) to those we were wearing just a few years ago. Helmet manufacturers have engineered features like better cooling vents, feathery weight, and extra protection against concussions, all of which make it worthwhile to upgrade regularly.

3. Significant Accidents or Falls

EPS foam is made to compress upon heavy impact. This disperses the force of the impact sothat the helmet, not your skull, is taking the brunt of the blow. However, EPS foam does not completely regain its shape after a major impact. The bottom line from every source is that, if the helmet has been in an accident, replace it, even if it does not look damaged.

4. The outside is just foam or cloth instead of plastic, or it doesnt have a CPSC, ASTM or Snell sticker inside, or you just can't get it to fit!

Obviously foam and cloth are not protective enough, but there are still some helmets floating around out there that aren't up to the safety code that manufacturers established in the 1990s. And anything that doesn't fit is probably not good for your ride.

 

5. It's not a cycling helmet

It's a good idea to wear a different helmet for each sport you participate in. If you skateboard, or do some activity where you crash regularly, you may not want to wear that helmet for cycling, as it could be less prepared for the types of falls that can occur when riding.



Stay updated on cycling news and more by bookmarking our blog (You can also like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get all the updates as they are released!