How do you measure your head for a cycle helmet? You wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of your head, just above your eyebrows and ears, to get a number that helps you find the right helmet size. This number, called your head circumference measurement for helmet sizing, is the first big step to picking a helmet that fits well and keeps you safe when you ride your bike.
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Why a Good Fit Matters So Much
Wearing a helmet is very important when you ride a bike. It helps protect your head if you fall. But a helmet can only do its best job if it fits you correctly. A helmet that is too big can move around. It might not be in the right place to protect you. A helmet that is too small can be uncomfortable. It also might not cover all the important parts of your head.
So, finding the right size is not just about being comfy. It is about staying safe. Getting the right head measurement for helmet fit is the start of finding a helmet that feels good and works right.
Getting Ready to Measure Your Head
You do not need many things to measure your head. You likely have what you need at home.
Here is what helps:
- A soft tape measure: This is like the one people use for sewing. It is flexible. It can bend around your head.
- A friend or family member (optional): It can be easier if someone helps you. But you can do it by yourself too.
- A mirror (optional): This can help you see what you are doing if you measure alone.
- Something to write with: A pen or pencil.
- Something to write on: A piece of paper or your phone notes.
Find a place where you can stand or sit up straight. Look straight ahead. Make sure nothing is on your head. No hats. No thick hairbands. If you have long hair, pull it back low. Keep your hair as flat as you can where the tape will go. This helps get a true measure of your head’s size.
How to Measure Head Size for Cycling Helmet: Step-by-Step
Let’s go step by step. This is how you measure your head size for cycling helmet use. It is simple once you know where to put the tape.
Finding the Right Spot on Your Head
This is the most important part. You need to measure the widest part of your head. Think about where a hat sits best.
Here is where to measure head for bike helmet sizing:
- Find the spot just above your eyebrows. This is usually about one finger width above them.
- Find the spot just above your ears. The tape should go over the top part of your ears slightly, or right above them.
- The tape needs to go around the back of your head too. It should stay level with the front. It should wrap around the biggest part of the back of your head.
Imagine a line going around your head. This line goes from above your eyebrows, over your ears, and around the back. This is the path for your tape measure. This path gives you the head circumference measurement for helmet fitting.
Using a Tape Measure for Helmet Size
Now take your soft tape measure.
Here is how to use it right:
- Hold the start of the tape: Put the ‘zero’ end of the tape measure on the spot above one of your eyebrows. Keep it against your head.
- Wrap the tape around: Bring the tape around the side of your head. Take it over the top of your ear. Then wrap it around the back of your head. Make sure it stays on that wide spot you found at the back. Bring it around the other side, over the other ear. Connect it back to the start point above your first eyebrow.
- Keep the tape level: Try to keep the tape straight and level all the way around. Do not let it dip down at the back. Do not let it go up high on your forehead. A mirror or a friend can help you see if the tape is level.
- Make it snug, but not tight: Pull the tape so it is snug against your head. But do not pull it so tight that it squeezes your head. It should feel like a comfortable headband. Not too loose, not too tight. Just resting nicely.
This process is key to getting a proper head measurement for bike helmet fitting. Doing it right means your starting number is correct.
Reading Your Measurement
Now you have the tape wrapped around your head. It is level and snug. Look at the tape. Find where the end with the zero meets the rest of the tape. The number there is your head size.
Tape measures usually have two sets of numbers. They show inches and centimeters.
- Inches: These numbers are often bigger. They are broken into smaller lines like half-inches and quarter-inches.
- Centimeters (cm): These numbers are smaller and closer together. They are broken into millimeters (mm).
You will see Inches vs cm for helmet measurement listed on sizing charts. Helmet companies use both. It is a good idea to write down your size in both inches and cm. This way, you are ready for any size chart you find.
Write down the number you see. Be exact. For example, maybe it is 58 cm. Or maybe it is 22 and a half inches.
Measuring More Than Once
To be really sure, measure your head two or three times.
Here is why:
- It is easy for the tape to move a little.
- You might put the tape in a slightly different spot.
Measure again. See if you get the same number. If you get numbers that are very close (like 58 cm one time, and 58.5 cm the next), use the bigger number. Or use the average number (add them and divide by how many times you measured). If the numbers are very different, try to figure out why. Maybe the tape was not level one time. Or it was too loose or tight. Try again until you get numbers that are almost the same.
This careful step helps make sure your head circumference measurement for helmet choosing is correct.
Why Proper Head Measurement is Crucial
Why do we make such a big deal about this measurement? It is the starting point for everything.
A proper head measurement for bike helmet selection leads to:
- Better Safety: A helmet the right size stays in place during a crash. It covers the parts of your head that need protection most. If it is too big, it can shift. If it is too small, it might not cover enough area.
- More Comfort: A helmet that fits well feels better. It does not pinch. It does not wobble. You are more likely to wear your helmet every time you ride if it feels good.
- Easier Adjustment: Helmets have straps and pads to fine-tune the fit. But these adjustments work best when you start with a size that is already close to your head size.
Think of it like shoes. You measure your foot size first. Then you try shoes on in that size range. You do not just guess your shoe size. Helmets are the same. Measuring your head is like measuring your foot.
Using Your Measurement with a Bike Helmet Sizing Guide
Okay, you have your head measurement. You have it in cm and maybe inches. Now what? Now you use a bike helmet sizing guide.
Helmet companies make helmets in different sizes. They have charts that match head measurements to their helmet sizes.
Here is what a basic guide might look like:
Example Helmet Size Chart Based on Measurement
| Helmet Size | Head Circumference (cm) | Head Circumference (Inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Small | 48 – 52 cm | 19 – 20.5 Inches |
| Small | 52 – 56 cm | 20.5 – 22 Inches |
| Medium | 56 – 60 cm | 22 – 23.5 Inches |
| Large | 60 – 64 cm | 23.5 – 25 Inches |
| Extra Large | 64 cm + | 25 Inches + |
Important Note: This is just an example! Every brand of helmet might have slightly different sizes. A Medium in one brand might be a Small or Large in another. You must look at the specific helmet brand’s sizing chart.
Finding Your Size on the Chart
Look at your head measurement. Let’s say you measured 58 cm. Look at the chart above. Find the range your number falls into.
- 58 cm is between 56 cm and 60 cm.
- On this example chart, that matches the Medium size.
So, based on this example chart, you would start by trying on a Medium helmet. If you measured in inches, say 23 inches, you would look at the inches column. 23 inches is between 22 and 23.5 inches. That also matches the Medium size on this chart. This is how you use your head circumference measurement for helmet shopping.
This step helps you in finding the correct helmet size to start with. It narrows down your choices.
Inches vs Cm for Helmet Measurement: Why Both?
Some helmet brands use centimeters for their charts. Others use inches. Some list both. Knowing your size in both units makes it easy to use any chart you find.
- Centimeters (cm) are often more exact. They are smaller units. Many helmet sizes are given in cm ranges (like 56-60 cm).
- Inches are used a lot in some countries, like the United States.
When you are using a tape measure for helmet size, it is usually easy to read both numbers at the same time. Just make sure you write them down correctly. Write down which number is cm and which is inches. This prevents mistakes later. Using Inches vs cm for helmet measurement helps you when looking at different brand size charts.
More Than Just a Number: Measuring Head for Helmet Fit Beyond Circumference
Your head circumference measurement for helmet sizing is a great start. But heads are not just round. They have different shapes. Some heads are more oval (longer front-to-back). Some are more round (wider side-to-side).
Most helmet size charts use circumference. They assume a general head shape. Sometimes, your measurement might say you are a Medium, but a Medium helmet feels too tight on the sides. Or too loose on the front and back.
This is where measuring head for helmet fit is more than just reading the tape. You might need to try different helmet shapes or brands. Some brands design helmets for more oval heads. Others might fit rounder heads better.
The measurement gives you the size range. Trying on the helmet tells you about the shape fit.
Using Your Measurement to Find the Correct Helmet Size
So, you have your head number. You looked at a size chart for a helmet you like. You found the size the chart suggests for your number. This is how you start finding the correct helmet size.
For example, if your head is 58 cm, and the chart says Medium is 56-60 cm, you should first try a Medium.
What if your number is on the edge of a size range?
- If your head is 56 cm, you are at the big end of Small (52-56 cm) and the small end of Medium (56-60 cm).
- In this case, it is a good idea to try both the Small and the Medium sizes.
- One size will likely feel better than the other.
This shows that while the helmet size chart based on measurement is key, it is not the only step. It guides you to which helmets to put on your head.
The Next Step: Trying the Helmet On
You have your head circumference measurement for helmet buying. You used a bike helmet sizing guide to pick a size. Now you need to try the actual helmet on.
Putting the helmet on tells you if the proper head measurement for bike helmet fitting worked.
Here is how to try on a helmet for fit:
- Put the helmet on your head: Place it level on your head. It should sit about two fingers width above your eyebrows. Not pushed back on your head. Not pulled down low over your eyes.
- Check the feel: How does it feel? Does it touch your head all around? Is there pressure anywhere? Is it loose?
- Adjust the fit system: Most helmets have a dial or straps at the back. This system helps snug the helmet onto your head. Turn the dial or pull the straps until the helmet feels secure.
- Does it move? With the fit system snug, try to move the helmet. Push it up from the front. Pull it down from the back. Try to rock it side to side. The helmet should not move much at all. It should stay in place. Your skin should move with the helmet slightly.
- Check the strap system: The chin strap should form a ‘V’ shape just below your ears. It should be snug under your chin. You should be able to fit one or two fingers between the strap and your chin.
Trying the helmet on is the real test. Your head circumference measurement for helmet shopping gets you started. The try-on makes sure the shape is right and the fit is secure. This complete process helps in finding the correct helmet size and fit.
What If Your Measurement Is Between Sizes?
We talked about this briefly. If your head circumference measurement for helmet purchase falls right on the line between two sizes on a chart, definitely try both.
- For example, if Small is 52-56 cm and Medium is 56-60 cm, and your head is 56 cm:
- Try the Small. Does it feel too tight? Does it put pressure on your head?
- Try the Medium. Does it feel too loose even when tightened? Does it rock around?
Often, one size will clearly feel better and more secure than the other. Sometimes, you might find that one brand’s sizing feels better for you than another brand’s, even if you measure the same size on their charts. This is normal because of different head shapes and helmet designs.
This highlights again why measuring head for helmet fit means measurement and trying on.
Summarizing the Steps
Let’s put it all together simply:
- Get your tools: A soft tape measure is key.
- Find the spot: Measure around the widest part of your head. This is just above your eyebrows and ears, and around the back. This is where to measure head for bike helmet sizing.
- Wrap the tape: Keep it level and snug, but not tight. Use a tape measure for helmet size correctly.
- Read the number: Write it down in both cm and inches. Know your Inches vs cm for helmet measurement.
- Measure again: Do it a few times to be sure. Get your head circumference measurement for helmet sizing right.
- Look at charts: Use your number with a bike helmet sizing guide from the brand you like. This uses the helmet size chart based on measurement.
- Find the starting size: This helps in finding the correct helmet size to try.
- Try the helmet on: This is vital for ensuring a proper head measurement for bike helmet works with the helmet’s shape and fit system.
Following these steps gives you the best chance of finding a comfortable and safe helmet.
Why This Effort Is Worth It
Spending a few minutes to measure your head might seem small. But it makes a big difference.
- A well-fitting helmet is comfortable. You will want to wear it every time you ride.
- A well-fitting helmet protects you better. In case of a fall, you want your helmet right where it needs to be.
Getting your head circumference measurement for helmet use is the smart first step in buying any bike helmet. Do not skip this part. It sets you up for a good fit and safer rides. This simple task is part of being a smart cyclist. It helps you make sure you are getting the right gear.
Looking at Different Types of Helmets
The way you measure your head does not change for different types of bike helmets. Whether you need a helmet for:
- Road cycling
- Mountain biking
- Commuting
- Kids riding
The process is the same. You still measure your head circumference measurement for helmet fitting in the same spot. You still use a bike helmet sizing guide from the specific brand. You still try it on to check the fit.
The size charts might vary slightly between types of helmets even within the same brand. For instance, a road helmet might have a slightly different fit or shape compared to a mountain bike helmet, even if they are both labeled ‘Medium’. That is why using the specific helmet’s chart is key.
But the starting point is always your head measurement. Where to measure head for bike helmet size stays the same. How to use a tape measure for helmet size stays the same. Inches vs cm for helmet measurement matters the same way.
The Role of Helmet Adjustments
Once you pick a helmet based on your head circumference measurement for helmet need and trying it on, you still need to adjust it.
Helmets have parts to help fine-tune the fit:
- The fit system: This is usually a dial or a sliding band at the back of the helmet. It tightens or loosens a band that goes around your head. This is the main way to make the helmet snug after you put it on.
- The chin straps: These adjust how the helmet stays on your head from below. The straps come down from the helmet sides. They meet under your chin with a buckle.
- The side adjusters: On the chin straps, usually just below your ears, there are clips. These clips let you make a ‘V’ shape with the straps right under your earlobes.
- Internal pads: Some helmets come with pads of different thickness. You can swap these out to make the helmet feel more comfortable or slightly change the internal fit.
These adjustments help make a helmet that is the correct size based on your measurement fit perfectly. The proper head measurement for bike helmet is the foundation. The adjustments build the final, comfy, secure fit.
Double Checking Your Fit
After you have measured, used the charts, picked a size, and tried it on, take a moment to check the fit again.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Is the helmet sitting level on your head? (Not tilted back or forward).
- Is it two fingers width above your eyebrows?
- Does it feel snug all around your head when the fit system is tightened?
- Can you move the helmet much? (It should not move more than about an inch).
- Are the side straps forming a ‘V’ under your ears?
- Is the chin strap snug, but not too tight? (Can you fit 1-2 fingers?).
- Are there any major pressure points? (Areas that hurt or feel squeezed).
If you answer yes to the fit questions and no to pressure points, you have likely found a good fit. Your head circumference measurement for helmet search worked well. This is key in finding the correct helmet size and making it work for you.
Why Online vs In-Store Shopping Matters for Fit
Measuring your head at home using a tape measure for helmet size is easy. You can then use a helmet size chart based on measurement to order online. This is convenient.
However, remember that measuring head for helmet fit is about shape too.
- Buying in a store: You can try on many helmets from different brands and models. You can feel how they fit your head shape. This is the best way to ensure a great fit. Staff in bike shops can also help you measure and check the fit.
- Buying online: You rely mostly on your head circumference measurement for helmet choice. You look at the Inches vs cm for helmet measurement on the charts. You pick a size. But you cannot try it first. It might fit great. Or it might not feel right because of head shape differences. Many online stores let you return helmets that do not fit.
Doing your proper head measurement for bike helmet is the first step no matter where you buy. But trying it on is the second, very important step. If you buy online, be ready to return it if the fit is not perfect. Safety and comfort come first. Finding the correct helmet size needs both measurement and trying it on.
The Takeaway: Measure First!
When you need a new bike helmet, start by measuring your head. Do not guess. Do not just buy the same size as your old helmet (sizing can change).
Follow the steps:
- Get a soft tape.
- Wrap it around the widest part of your head, just above eyebrows and ears. This is where to measure head for bike helmet.
- Keep it level and snug. This is using a tape measure for helmet size the right way.
- Read the number in cm and inches. Understand Inches vs cm for helmet measurement.
- Measure twice. Get your head circumference measurement for helmet buying accurate.
- Use a bike helmet sizing guide. Look at the helmet size chart based on measurement for the specific brand.
- Find the size the chart points to. This is finding the correct helmet size starting point.
- Try the helmet on to check the actual fit. This checks the measuring head for helmet fit beyond just the number.
- Adjust the straps and fit system. Ensure proper head measurement for bike helmet leads to a snug, safe fit.
This simple process is your guide to getting a helmet that protects you well and feels good on your rides. Your head size measurement is the key. Do it right, and ride safe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions people ask about measuring their head for a helmet.
h5 What is the best way to measure my head for a bike helmet?
The best way is to use a soft tape measure. Wrap it around the widest part of your head. This is about one finger above your eyebrows and over the top of your ears. Keep the tape level all the way around.
h5 Can I use a regular ruler instead of a tape measure?
No, a regular stiff ruler cannot bend around your head. You need a soft, flexible tape measure. This is important for getting an accurate head circumference measurement for helmet sizing.
h5 Where exactly should the tape measure go?
The tape should go around the fullest part of your head. Start just above your eyebrows. Go over the top part of your ears. Wrap it around the biggest bump at the back of your head. Make sure it stays level. This is where to measure head for bike helmet.
h5 Should the tape be tight or loose?
The tape should be snug against your head. It should not be so tight it causes pressure. It should not be so loose that it slips down. Think of it like a comfy hat band.
h5 Do I need to measure in both inches and centimeters?
Yes, it is a good idea. Helmet size charts often list sizes in cm. Some use inches. Knowing your size in both makes it easy to use any bike helmet sizing guide you find. Understand Inches vs cm for helmet measurement.
h5 My measurement is exactly between two sizes on the chart. What size should I get?
If your head circumference measurement for helmet choice is between sizes, try both sizes. Put both helmets on. Tighten the fit system on each. See which one feels more snug and stable without causing pressure points. That will be the correct helmet size for you.
h5 Does hair affect the measurement?
Yes, thick hair or hairstyles can add size. If you have long or thick hair, pull it back low. Try to make the hair where the tape goes as flat as possible. This helps get a more accurate head circumference measurement for helmet fitting.
h5 Is measuring enough to find the right helmet?
No, measuring is the first step. It helps you find the size range to try. You must try the helmet on. Check how it feels on your head shape. Make sure you can adjust it for a snug, secure fit. Proper head measurement for bike helmet is key, but trying it on is also needed.
h5 Can kids’ heads be measured the same way?
Yes, you measure a child’s head for a helmet the same way. Use a soft tape. Find the widest part above their eyebrows and ears. Get the head circumference measurement for helmet fitting. Use a kids’ bike helmet sizing guide. Kids’ helmets usually cover smaller head ranges.
h5 Do all helmet brands have the same sizing?
No. A helmet size chart based on measurement can vary between brands. A Medium in one brand might fit like a Small or Large in another. Always check the specific brand’s size chart. Use your head circumference measurement for helmet choice with that chart.
h5 How do I know if the helmet fits correctly after I buy it?
Put the helmet on level. It should be two fingers above your eyebrows. Tighten the fit system. It should feel snug all around. It should not move much when you shake your head gently. The straps should make a ‘V’ below your ears and be snug under your chin. If it meets these points and feels comfortable, you have likely found the correct helmet size and fit. This confirms your measuring head for helmet fit process worked.