Far from being just an accessory, the ski helmet is an essential and an integral part of skiers’ equipment. It provides protection against falls or blows, which is more than just game-winning, over its mere theoretical drawbacks: sweat and discomfort.
Although it is not mandatory in the peninsula stations, except in duly marked freestyle and free ride areas, it is highly recommended to use a helmet. Not surprisingly, the helmet can prevent serious injury in the vast majority of cases of collisions and falls.
So, whether you are a beginner or mastering the slopes, it is essential to have the right-sized helmet. This article brings you information on how to measure head for ski helmet.
How to Choose the Right Ski Helmet Size
The size of a ski helmet is expressed either in centimeters (cm) or in letters (S, M, L, XL). Correspondence tables are then used to convert centimeters into letters. However, the sizes in letters are much less precise than the sizes expressed in cm. So, depending on the model or the brand, there may be some variations. Therefore, the easiest way to know your ski helmet size is to go to the store to try them on directly.
On the other hand, some models also have an adjustment system with a dial, allowing you to adjust the size of the ski helmet to your head. By turning the dial clockwise, you decrease the head circumference. Then, in the opposite direction, you increase it. This allows you to adjust and gain precision for a helmet in your size. But if your helmet is too big or too small, it won’t be enough.
The helmet needs to fit well on the head. A too large helmet does not protect enough, while a helmet that is too small causes a headache.
The best way to fit the case to the head is to measure the circumference of the head. To do this, take a tape measure, measure the circumference just above your eyebrows and compare the result with a ski helmet size chart.
How to Take the Head Size for a Ski Helmet?
It is essential to measure the circumference of your head to determine the correct size for your ski helmet. To do this, measure your head circumference just above the eyebrows to the back of the head. To be more precise, to measure your head size in centimeters, place a measuring tape at the forehead above the eyebrows. Don’t be too loose or too tight. You will get a value between 52 and 62 cm. It will allow you to know precisely your head circumference to choose the size of your ski helmet.
Correct placement of the tape on your head is of utmost importance. Otherwise, you will not be able to take the exact dimensions. Thus, it is advisable to take the measurements above the ears.
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Even when you have measured your ski helmet size, it must fit your head. Helmet sizes and shapes are not universal, so one helmet will do better than the other.
For this reason, we recommend putting on a helmet and fastening the chin strap. Then, shake your head as if you are saying “yes” and again as if you are saying “no.” And finally, jump. The helmet adjusts when it remains firmly on the head during all these movements.
What are the Different Size Adjustment Systems for a Ski Helmet?
Most ski helmets are adjustable. However, the degree of adjustability is limited. Each helmet has a size tag where you can also read the range of the helmet, which usually varies between 0 and 5 centimeters. There are different systems to configure the correct size of the ski helmet:
Adjustment wheel
It is the most widely used adjustment system on the ski helmet market. From one brand and from one range to another, the designs can vary, offering more or less precision and comfort. Some adjust the back of the helmet, others act 360°, but the principle is always the same: a linkage system inserted inside the helmet. These systems work well and are easy to use.
The most common adjustment system is through a rotating wheel located on the back of the helmet. The advantage of the adjustability via a swivel wheel is that you can accurately adjust it on the track or the lift.
Custom Air
Some brands’ helmets are equipped with an air adjustment system. An air cushion is positioned on the back of the skull, which a small manual pump inflates until it has the optimal fit. The system consists of small air cushions inside the helmet. A pump at the bottom of the hull can pump the cushions. Usually, there is also a device at the bottom to let the air out of the cushions. A purge button is also present to decrease the air pressure if you have overinflated; a system that offers a perfect fit and great comfort, with zero pressure points.
Automatic adjustment
Finally, some brands offer self-adjusting helmets. They act via a complex elastic bands system, which allows the helmet to adapt immediately to your head circumference. It follows the movements of the skier’s head for a comfortable fit, light and ultra-practical system since it does not require the skier to do anything.
The elastic band can regulate the size. With a padded ski helmet, there are liners of different thicknesses. It makes the helmet suitable for the fit. This form of tuning is reflected in the cheaper variants and, in particular, in the children’s segment.
3D system
The 3D system works the same as the system with a rotating wheel. The big difference is that now you can adjust the circumference of the helmet and the position of the helmet in relation to your face. It prevents a gap between your ski goggles and your helmet. Because this system also works with a swivel wheel, you can adjust the helmet when you put on your goggles or when you switch between goggles and sunglasses.
Size Chart for a Ski Helmet
After you measure your head circumference (just above the eyebrows and ears) in cm, you need to check your size in the size tables of each brand. Depending on the manufacturer, you will get one measure or another, but in general, the dimensions are usually the following:
| Size | XS | S | M | L | XL |
| Unisex | 53 – 55cm | 55 – 57cm | 57 – 59cm | 59 – 61cm | 61 – 63cm |
| Kids | – | 49 – 51cm | 51 – 53cm | 53 – 55cm | 55- 57cm |
If the helmet is too tight on your head, you will need to take a larger helmet size. Likewise, if it feels loose on your head, opt for a smaller size.
Our Final Thoughts
With the information provided above, now you can measure your head to get the right-sized helmet. We recommend that you choose the correct size good quality helmet that you can reuse over time instead of renting, since with use and falls, the helmet tends to get worse faster.
