Make Sure you're Safe and Secure by Wearing a Helmet

Even though wearing a helmet when cycling isn't compulsory, it does offer substantial protection from head injuries and death. If you're still undecided, what are the major benefits of wearing a helmet? When you're shopping for helmets what should you be looking for?

Why Wear a Helmet?
There are arguments both for and against wearing helmets when out on your bike. However, even if it won't always be enough protection, it still offers more support than no helmet would. A number of studies have shown that cyclists who wore helmets were more likely to survive low impact collisions and avoid unnecessary head injuries. The helmet acts as a shock absorber and protects the head on impact with the ground or other surface. They are most effective when cyclists are involved in minor collisions, especially where children are concerned.

Those cyclists, who don't want to wear cycling helmets, argue that they don't find drivers as careful when they're around riders who wear them. They also feel that many cyclists don't pay as much attention if they're wearing one, as they think they're adequately protected if anything did happen. There is also the consensus that helmets provide very little protection in the event of a major or high speed collision, as the force of the impact would lead to the helmet breaking up. Whichever side of the fence you sit on, you are unlikely to cause yourself any harm by wearing one.

What to Look for When Buying a Helmet?
When they were first designed, cycling helmets were often seen as un-cool and most people preferred to do without. However, with the rising success of professional cyclists, helmets have become much more stylish and wearable. There is now a great range of designs and colors to choose from. You could match your helmet to your bike or cycling clothing or check out the latest style worn by your favorite professional rider. A helmet could also make you more visible to other road users by buying one in a bright color or adding reflective stickers.

Many consumers feel that helmets are too costly and this is prohibitive to their extensive use. However, you don't have to go for the most expensive make and model, as the price has no bearing on the helmet's effectiveness in an impact. Instead you should base your choice more on the fit and comfort, to ensure it provides adequate protection and that you'll want to wear it. When you secure the helmet it shouldn't move either side to side or front to back. It should fit closely, but not so much that it places pressure on the head. This is particularly important when it comes to buying helmets for children and you shouldn't be tempted to buy one that's slightly too big to ensure it lasts longer.

A helmet is there to protect you in the event of an accident, but obviously it is up to you whether you wear one. No matter how you view the arguments, they will prevent the majority of brain and head injuries, as well as reducing the impact of facial and scalp lacerations.

AUTHOR BIO

Christin writes regularly on cycling and bike safety for a range of biking and sporting websites and blogs. She is passionate about getting riders to wear cycling helmets, particularly encouraging young cyclists to get into the habit.