To measure your head for helmet size, you need a flexible tape measure. Wrap it around the widest part of your head. This is usually about one inch (2.5 cm) above your eyebrows and ears. This measurement gives you your head circumference measurement. Knowing this number helps you find correct helmet size for safety and comfort. Getting the right helmet fit starts with this simple step.
Image Source: www.vegahelmet.com
Why a Good Helmet Fit Matters
Wearing a helmet is key to staying safe. But a helmet only works well if it fits right. A helmet that is too big can move around. It might not protect your head in a crash. A helmet that is too small can be very uncomfortable. It might squeeze your head. This can cause headaches. It can also sit too high, leaving parts of your head exposed. Proper helmet fit guide is important for all riders. This includes bike riders, motorcycle riders, skateboarders, skiers, and more. Measuring for helmet size is the first step.
Getting Ready to Measure
Measuring your head is easy. You only need a few simple things.
* A flexible tape measure. A sewing tape measure works well. If you don’t have one, you can use a string or ribbon. Then measure the string with a ruler or firm tape measure.
* A mirror can help you see what you are doing.
* A pen and paper to write down the number.
Make sure your hair is in its usual state. If you normally wear a specific hairstyle under your helmet, like a ponytail or braids, include that in your measurement. If you are measuring for a helmet for someone else, have them stand still.
Measuring Your Head
This is the most important part. Take your time to get it right.
1. Get your flexible tape measure ready.
2. Find the widest part of your head. This is usually across your forehead. It’s about one inch (2.5 cm) above your eyebrows. It also goes around the back of your head. Find the part that sticks out the most there.
3. Put the zero end of the tape measure in the middle of your forehead.
4. Wrap the tape measure around your head. Keep it level all the way around. Make sure it goes over that widest point at the back.
5. Pull the tape snug. It should not be too tight. It should not be loose either. It should feel comfortable. Like a hat that fits well.
6. Look in the mirror or have someone help you. Read the number where the tape measure meets the zero end.
7. This number is your head circumference measurement. Write it down.
8. Measure a few times. Sometimes the number is slightly different. Use the largest number you get. This helps make sure the helmet isn’t too small.
This measurement gives you a starting point. It tells you which size to look for.
Using a Helmet Size Guide
Every helmet brand is a little different. They make their helmets slightly differently. This means a “Medium” size from one brand might be different from a “Medium” in another brand. This is why using the brand’s specific helmet sizing chart is key.
You can find the helmet sizing chart:
* On the helmet manufacturer’s website.
* On the box the helmet comes in.
* On the product page if you are buying online.
* In the store where helmets are sold.
The chart will list sizes like Small, Medium, Large, etc. Next to each size, it will show a range of head circumference measurements. Your measured number will fall into one of these ranges.
Here is an example of what a helmet sizing chart might look like. Remember, this is just an example. Always check the chart for the specific helmet you want.
Example Helmet Sizing Chart
| Helmet Size | Head Circumference (Inches) | Head Circumference (Centimeters) |
|---|---|---|
| X-Small | 19.5 – 20.5 | 50 – 52 |
| Small | 20.5 – 21.25 | 52 – 54 |
| Medium | 21.25 – 22.0 | 54 – 56 |
| Large | 22.0 – 22.75 | 56 – 58 |
| X-Large | 22.75 – 23.5 | 58 – 60 |
| XX-Large | 23.5 – 24.5 | 60 – 62 |
Look at the chart. Find the range that includes your head circumference measurement. That is the size the brand recommends for you.
Grasping Proper Helmet Fit
Finding the right size on a chart is just the first part. The next part is trying the helmet on. This is very important. A helmet might match your measurement but still not feel right. The goal is a proper helmet fit guide where the helmet is snug and stable.
Here are steps to check the fit once you have a helmet based on your measurement:
Putting the Helmet On
- Make sure any padding inside is smooth.
- Put the helmet on your head. Pull it down so it sits level. The front edge should be about one or two finger widths above your eyebrows. It should not be pushed back on your head. It should not block your sight.
Checking Snugness
The helmet should feel snug all around your head.
* It should touch your head evenly everywhere.
* There should be no large gaps between the padding and your head.
* It should not feel too tight. It should not pinch or press on any one spot.
Checking Stability
Test how much the helmet moves.
1. With the chin strap unbuckled, move the helmet side to side. It should make your skin move with it. It should not slide around easily.
2. Move the helmet front to back. Again, your skin should move with it. It should not tip forward into your eyes or backward, leaving your forehead open.
If the helmet slides a lot, it is too big. If it feels very tight or is hard to get on, it might be too small.
Adjusting Straps
Most helmets have straps.
1. Adjust the sliders on the side straps. They should form a “Y” shape. This “Y” should meet just below your earlobe.
2. The chin strap should buckle easily.
3. Tighten the chin strap until it is snug. You should be able to fit one or maybe two fingers between the strap and your chin. Any more than that, and it’s too loose.
4. Open your mouth wide. The chin strap should feel snug against your chin and jaw. If it doesn’t, it’s too loose.
Checking for Pressure Points
Wear the helmet for a few minutes. Are there any spots that hurt? Does it press too hard anywhere? This might mean the helmet shape doesn’t match your head shape well. Some brands or helmet models fit different head shapes (more round or more oval).
The “Shake Test”
Once the straps are adjusted, shake your head gently. Look up, down, and side to side. The helmet should stay in place. It should not wobble or slip.
Deciphering Helmet Types
The steps for measuring are the same for most helmets. But the fit checks can feel different.
How to Size a Bicycle Helmet
Bike helmets need to be light and have good airflow.
* Fit is crucial. It sits on top of your head. It must stay level.
* Padding inside is often minimal but spread out.
* The strap system (often with a dial at the back) helps get a snug fit around the head. Adjust this dial until it feels firm but not painful.
* Follow the “two fingers above eyebrows” and “Y” strap guidelines.
* Check the stability carefully. Bike helmets are lighter, so they might feel less “locked on” than a motorcycle helmet initially, but they should still not shift easily.
How to Size a Motorcycle Helmet
Motorcycle helmets are heavier and cover more of the head.
* Measure your head circumference measurement the same way.
* Use the brand’s motorcycle helmet sizing chart.
* When trying one on, it might feel very snug at first. It should be hard to pull down over your head.
* Cheek pads are important. They should press firmly against your cheeks. This keeps the helmet from moving side to side. They will break in a little over time.
* There should be no gap between your forehead and the helmet padding.
* Perform the stability checks. Motorcycle helmets should not move around at all if they fit right.
* With the helmet on and strapped, try to roll it forward off your head. If you can roll it off, it is too big.
Measuring head for helmet size for a motorcycle helmet is very important. It is a piece of safety equipment that must work perfectly.
Sizing for Children’s Helmets
Getting the right fit for a child’s helmet is extra important. Children’s heads are still growing. But you should not buy a helmet that is too big for them to grow into. A helmet that is too big is not safe now.
- Measure the child’s head circumference measurement carefully.
- Use a child-specific helmet sizing chart.
- Follow the same fitting steps: level on the head, two fingers above eyebrows, “Y” straps, snug chin strap.
- Check the stability many times. Kids move around a lot. The helmet must stay in place.
- Re-check the fit often as the child grows.
Choosing the right helmet size for a child gives you peace of mind.
What If You Are Between Sizes?
Sometimes your measurement falls between two sizes on the helmet sizing chart. What should you do?
* Most experts say to try the smaller size first. Helmets often have padding that breaks in a little. A slightly snug helmet that becomes comfortable is better than a slightly loose helmet that stays loose.
* However, the smaller size should not be painful right away. It should not cause major pressure points.
* If the smaller size feels too tight or painful immediately, try the larger size.
* If you try the larger size, make sure it passes the stability tests. Can you easily slide it around? If yes, it is too big.
* Some helmets come with extra padding of different thicknesses. This allows for some fine-tuning of the fit. Check if the helmet you are looking at offers this.
* If you are truly between sizes and neither feels right, you might need to try a different brand. Remember, different brands fit different head shapes.
Measuring for helmet size gives you the best starting point. But trying it on makes sure you find correct helmet size for your specific head shape.
Recognizing a Bad Helmet Fit
Knowing what a bad fit feels like is as important as knowing a good fit.
Signs a Helmet is Too Big:
- It moves easily side to side or front to back.
- You can tilt it back so your forehead is exposed.
- It sits too low, blocking your sight.
- There are large gaps between the padding and your head.
- It feels loose even with the straps tightened.
- It might feel heavy or unstable.
Signs a Helmet is Too Small:
- It sits too high on your head, leaving the bottom of your head unprotected.
- It is very hard to pull down onto your head.
- It causes strong pressure points or pain.
- It feels like it is pinching or squeezing your head.
- The chin strap is hard to buckle or feels very tight even when adjusted.
- It feels uncomfortable to wear for more than a few minutes.
A poorly fitting helmet reduces your safety. If your helmet doesn’t fit right after using the proper helmet fit guide steps, do not use it. Find a helmet that fits you well.
Final Steps Before You Ride
You have measured your head circumference measurement. You have used the helmet sizing chart. You have tried the helmet on. You have checked the fit carefully using the proper helmet fit guide. You feel confident it is the right size and fit.
Before every ride, quickly check your helmet fit:
1. Put the helmet on level.
2. Check that the front edge is one to two fingers above your eyebrows.
3. Check the side strap “Y” is below your ears.
4. Buckle the chin strap and check that it is snug (one to two fingers underneath).
5. Give your head a little shake. The helmet should stay put.
Taking these few seconds ensures your helmet is ready to protect you. Choosing the right helmet size and checking its fit is a key safety habit.
Interpreting Head Shapes
While measuring head for helmet size by circumference is standard, head shape also plays a role. Most helmet companies design for shapes that are generally “intermediate oval.” This is the most common shape. However, some people have heads that are more round or more long oval.
- Round Oval: The head is more equally wide from side to side as it is long from front to back.
- Long Oval: The head is longer from front to back than it is wide from side to side.
If you measure correctly but find a helmet causes pressure points only on the front and back, it might be too round for your long oval head. If it causes pressure points only on the sides, it might be too long oval for your round head.
Some helmet brands are known to fit more round or more long oval shapes. If you have trouble getting a comfortable fit even after trying different sizes based on your head circumference measurement, you might need to research brands known for different head shapes. This is part of the process of using a proper helmet fit guide.
Don’t give up on finding a helmet that fits well. Safety depends on it.
Maintaining Your Helmet’s Fit Over Time
Once you find a helmet with a proper helmet fit, it’s good to know how to keep it that way.
* Inspect Padding: The internal padding can compress or wear out over time. This can make a helmet feel looser. Many helmets have removable, washable padding. Check its condition. Some brands sell replacement padding. Replacing old padding can refresh the fit.
* Check Adjustment Systems: For bike helmets, the rear dial or internal cage system can sometimes loosen. Make sure it still tightens smoothly and holds its position.
* Strap Condition: Check that the straps are not frayed or damaged. Ensure the buckle snaps firmly into place.
* Cleanliness: Keeping your helmet clean, including the straps and padding, can help maintain its condition and fit. Sweat and dirt can affect materials.
Using a helmet sizing chart and getting the initial fit right is crucial. Maintaining that fit over the helmet’s life is also important for continued safety. Remember that helmets have a lifespan, often recommended to be replaced every 5-7 years or after any crash, regardless of visible damage.
Composing Your Helmet Purchase
Armed with your head circumference measurement and knowledge of how to check fit, you are ready to shop.
When looking at different helmets:
* Check the Size Chart: Always look at the specific helmet model’s sizing chart. Do not assume your size in one model is the same in another, even within the same brand.
* Consider the Type: Make sure the helmet is certified for the activity you will do (bicycle, motorcycle, ski, etc.). Different activities have different safety standards.
* Read Reviews: See what other buyers say about the fit. Do many people mention it runs small or large? Does it fit round or long heads well?
* Try Before You Buy (If Possible): If shopping in person, try on the helmet after using the helmet size guide to pick the size. Spend a few minutes in it. Follow the proper helmet fit guide steps in the store.
* Buying Online: If buying online, double-check the return policy. Make sure you can return or exchange it if the fit isn’t right, even if the measurement suggested it would be. You might need to try more than one size or even more than one brand.
Choosing the right helmet size is an important step. But don’t stop there. Make sure the helmet feels snug, stable, and comfortable before you rely on it for protection. Measuring for helmet size is the start. Ensuring a proper fit is the goal.
Mastering the Measurement Technique
Let’s quickly review the steps for head circumference measurement again. Getting this step right makes the whole process easier.
- Grab your flexible tape measure.
- Stand up straight. Keep your head level. Look straight ahead.
- Place the start of the tape measure (the ‘zero’) on your forehead. Put it about one inch (2.5 cm) above your eyebrows.
- Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your head. This means going over the bump at the back of your head. Keep the tape measure level all the way around.
- Make sure the tape is snug against your head. It should not be loose. It should not be so tight that it leaves a mark.
- Read the number where the tape crosses the starting point. Note this number.
- Repeat the measurement two or three times. Use the largest number you get. This helps account for any slight differences in how you wrap the tape.
This careful measuring for helmet size using a tape measure sets you up for success in finding your size on the helmet sizing chart. It’s the critical first move in how to size a bicycle helmet, how to size a motorcycle helmet, or any other type of helmet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask about measuring for helmet size and fit.
Q: Can I use a string instead of a tape measure?
A: Yes, you can. If you don’t have a flexible tape measure, use a non-stretchy string or ribbon. Wrap it around your head just like the tape measure. Mark where the string meets. Then lay the string flat and measure its length with a ruler or firm tape measure.
Q: Where exactly is the widest part of the back of my head?
A: Feel the back of your head. You’ll likely feel a part that sticks out the most. The tape measure should go over this part. It’s usually in line with or slightly above your ears.
Q: Should the helmet feel tight when I first try it on?
A: It should feel snug, but not painful or overly tight. A little snugness is okay, especially with motorcycle helmets where cheek pads might be stiff. It should not cause sharp pressure points. If it hurts or is difficult to get on, it might be too small or the wrong shape.
Q: My measurement is exactly on the line between two sizes. Which one should I pick?
A: Generally, try the smaller size first. Helmets often break in slightly. A snug fit that becomes comfortable is safer than a loose fit. But if the smaller size is clearly too tight or causes pain, go with the larger one and make sure it passes the stability tests.
Q: Do helmet sizes mean the same thing for different types of helmets?
A: Not always. While the measuring for helmet size method is the same, the fit feel can differ (e.g., bike vs. motorcycle). Also, a size ‘Medium’ in a bike helmet might cover a different head circumference range than a size ‘Medium’ in a ski helmet from the same brand. Always check the specific helmet sizing chart for the exact helmet model and type you want.
Q: How can I check if a helmet is too big if I can’t try it on (like buying online)?
A: Use your head circumference measurement and the helmet sizing chart provided by the seller. When it arrives, try it on immediately. Follow the proper helmet fit guide steps carefully, especially the stability test (moving it side to side, front to back, opening your mouth). If it moves too much, it’s too big. Be ready to return it if the fit isn’t right.
Q: What is the most important thing about helmet fit?
A: Stability. The helmet must stay in place on your head during a crash. It should not slide forward, backward, or sideways. It must cover the areas it is designed to protect. Measuring your head and using the size guide helps you find the right size to achieve this stability.
Conclusion
Finding the right helmet size is the first critical step in making sure your helmet can do its job. Start with an accurate head circumference measurement using a tape measure. Compare this number to the specific helmet sizing chart for the brand and model you want.
Once you have a helmet, use the proper helmet fit guide steps to try it on and check for snugness, stability, and comfort. Remember that how to size a bicycle helmet might feel different from how to size a motorcycle helmet, but the principles of a secure, stable fit remain the same.
Taking the time to measure your head for helmet size and ensure a proper fit is an investment in your safety. Don’t guess your size. Measure it. Your head protection depends on choosing the right helmet size. Stay safe out there!