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Holding Icon Bike Helmets Buyer's Guide

Bike helmets are one of the most important cycling accessories you can buy. Use this handy guide from Halfords to help you choose the right bike helmet to keep you safe while riding.

There's a massive variety of cycle helmets out there to choose from, with some great-looking designs. However, more important than looks is choosing one that fits, so it can provide the highest level of protection.

Bike Helmets Buyer's Guide

BUYING THE RIGHT SIZE BIKE HELMET

The Highway Code says you should wear a helmet that's the correct size and is securely fastened. It's vitally important that you buy the right size helmet to protect yourself from head injury if you fall off or are involved in an accident. Follow the simple steps below as a guide:

bike helmet guide Measure your head with a measuring tape, placing it about 1cm above your eyebrows
bike helmet guide Match this to the size guide on the helmet's information ticket
bike helmet guide Try the bike helmet on. Check that it sits low on your forehead, just above your eyebrows. Shake your head to check that it doesn't move
bike helmet guide Improve the fit by adjusting straps if needed

Our in-store staff are always on hand to give advice on all our bike accessories, so feel free to pop in and ask them for help if you don't feel confident enough to choose the right helmet.

BUYING BIKE HELMETS ONLINE

When buying online from Halfords.com, check that the helmet size in the product description fits your head measurement. You can opt to reserve and collect in-store, where you'll be able to try it on before purchasing. If choosing home delivery, make sure you try the helmet on and adjust the fit before riding.

If you find that your helmet doesn't fit properly, keep all the packaging intact and call into your local Halfords for further advice.

BIKE HELMET ADDITIONAL FEATURES

For extra comfort look out for a cycle helmet with vents, which will keep your head cool on hot bike rides, and a peak or visor to shield your eyes from the sun.

If you're going to be taking part in more active cycling such as mountain biking or BMXing, you should consider buying a full-face helmet and bike body armour for added protection.




KIDS BIKE HELMETS

It's especially important for children to protect their heads while having fun on their bikes. Halfords sells a huge range of kids bikes helmets- you can follow the same steps as above when choosing a helmet for your child.

Kids helmets usually have fitting pads for extra help getting the best fit. As always, our in-store staff are there to help.





HALFORDS BIKE HELMET SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS

Halfords recommends that you replace your bike helmet every three years - and always replace it if it has been involved in a crash or has taken any impact. Also, never borrow someone else's helmet unless you're absolutely sure it's a perfect fit.

If you're ever in doubt, don't take a risk - call into one of our stores for expert advice.

FAQs Bike Parts & Accessories FAQs

  • Because of the vital protection they provide, it's very important to get the right bike helmet.

    Measure your head and check the size of the bike helmet you're looking to buy and it's a good idea to try the bike helmet for size - it should sit low on your forehead, just above your eyebrows and should not move when you shake your head. Adjust to fit using the adjustable fit system on the bike helmet to improve fit if necessary.

    Extra features to look for:

    » More vents provide better air circulation to keep your head cool
    » Peaks and visors reduce glare and shield your eyes from the sun

    We recommend you replace your helmet every 3 years. Remember: Every helmet subjected to an impact should always be replaced.

  • Quite simply, yes.

    Riding a bike, whether on the road or recreationally presents a risk of head injury and therefore requires head protection. Though the overall numbers and risk are not high, about 75% of all cyclist deaths each year result from head injuries.

    The simple precaution of wearing a bike helmet may prevent severe injury or save your life. Other benefits include the fact that most bike helmets are brightly coloured, making you more visible to other motorists and they also offer protection from weather, including sun, rain and hailstones.

  • Quite simply, yes.

    Riding a bike, whether on the road or recreationally presents a risk of head injury and therefore requires head protection. Though the overall numbers and risk are not high, about 75% of all cyclist deaths each year result from head injuries. The simple precaution of wearing a bike helmet may prevent severe injury or save your child's life. Other benefits include the fact that most bike helmets are brightly coloured, making your child more visible to others and they also offer protection from weather, including sun, rain and hailstones.

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