When should you replace your ski helmet?

Wearing a ski or snowboard helmet is highly recommended – in fact, it’s an essential element for enjoying yourself fully and with complete peace of mind both on the slopes as well as out of bounds. But ski helmets don’t last forever, and after several years of use or following a violent shock they provide less protection. That’s why it’s so important to know when to replace it.

REPLACE YOUR HELMET EVERY FIVE YEARS

Actually, there is no legal requirement to replace your ski helmet after X number of years. However both helmet manufacturers and retailers recommend changing your helmet every five years or so, based on your skill level and how often you use it. If you ski or snowboard regularly, your helmet will wear out faster. The inside of your helmet is made from EPS foam that is designed to absorb shock in case of an impact. The way you use and store your helmet during its lifespan, as well as small, everyday shocks, can change the fundamental characteristics of the EPS, which means your helmet will no longer provide the optimal protection it’s intended for.

Kids’ helmets need to be replaced more often because their craniums continue to grow until they’re around 16 years old, and to ensure the best protection it’s essential the helmet fits the child’s head correctly.

REPLACE YOUR HELMET IN CASE OF A FALL OR COLLISION

All ski helmets must be replaced after a fall or a collision that results in a significant impact to the head, even if the outer shell looks as though it’s not broken. After an impact, the EPS foam protects you by deforming, or even breaking, to absorb the energy that’s transmitted to your head. This deformation is irreparable and afterwards the helmet will no longer provide the same level of protection if your head takes another hit.

HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR HELMET IS STILL FUNCTIONAL

To find out if you need to replace your ski helmet, ask yourself the following questions. If you answer “yes” to any of the questions, you know it’s time to change your ski or snowboard helmet.

• Is the outside shell of your helmet cracked, or does it have bumps or scratches?
• Are there cracks or signs of wear on the inside of the helmet? (To find out, remove the fabric liner from the inside of the helmet.
• Do the buckles and straps work properly?
• Is it difficult to tighten or loosen the size adjustment system?

REMEMBER: a ski helmet is a very personal piece of protection and it’s not always easy to know whether it’s been damaged or not. It’s therefore strongly advised to never buy a used ski helmet, or to resell or give away a used helmet, even to a relative. In addition to providing protection, helmets are now more comfortable, lighter, and are better than ever at shielding you from cold or bad weather. So to make sure your head stays filled with nothing but great memories of your ski and snowboard days… take care of your equipment!