Bicycle helmet FIT HOW SHOULD A BICYCLE HELMET FIT?

Only a well-fitting bicycle helmet can save lives. An optimal fit and good seating ensure maximum protection in the event of accidents and also increase wearing comfort, even on longer tours. In our guide, you will learn how to find the right helmet size and what adjustment options are available to optimally adapt your helmet to the shape of your head.

Why fit is important
Find your helmet size: Measure your head circumference
Bicycle helmet: correct adjustment
Important information about children's helmets
Different head shapes & hairstyles
Care & Maintenance

How should a bicycle helmet fit correctly?

A Bicycle helmet can save lives in an emergency, but only if it fits properly. It is therefore important for both adults and children that the bicycle helmet is adjusted to the size of the head, the chin strap is fastened correctly and the helmet is worn properly on the head. Our guide explains how to adjust your helmet correctly and what you should pay attention to when putting it on.

Optimal fit for the bicycle helmet

Finding the right size:

Before purchasing a helmet, you must measure your head circumference to find the right helmet size. If the bicycle helmet is too large or too small, it will not fit properly on your head and therefore cannot provide the best possible protection against injury in the event of a fall.

Finding the right helmet size: How do I measure my head circumference for a bicycle helmet?

1. Apply measuring tape

Place a flexible measuring tape approximately 2.5 cm above your eyebrows and wrap it around your head.

2. Read the value

Then read the measured head circumference in centimetres.

3. Select size

Compare the manufacturer's size specifications. For intermediate sizes, choose the larger size and adjust accordingly.

Consider adjustment options when buying a helmet

When buying a helmet, you should pay attention to various adjustment options:

Adjustment system: A good adjustment system allows for easy adaptation to different head shapes. When buying a helmet, look for models with a finely adjustable knob or dial to ensure the best possible head protection.

Head ring: An adjustable head ring also helps to optimally adjust the helmet to your head. There are helmets with half and full rings, whereby the full ring is often preferred as it allows adjustment across the entire head circumference.

Helmet straps: Adjustable helmet straps or bands ensure a secure fit and prevent the helmet from slipping on your head.

Chin strap: A simple and secure chin strap is essential for putting on and taking off the helmet quickly. This is also particularly important after an impact or collision when first aid needs to be administered.

Helmets for different head shapes

Not all heads are the same, and not every helmet fits every head. Since every head has a unique shape, bicycle helmets are also designed differently. There are helmets that can be adapted particularly well to different head shapes and have individual adjustment systems. These often include removable or adjustable inner padding or flexible head rings that ensure an optimal fit. If, despite all attempts at adjustment, a helmet does not fit properly or causes pressure points, it is advisable to try on helmets from other brands to find the perfect helmet.

Special information about children's helmets

When purchasing a bicycle helmet for children, there are a few additional points to consider to ensure that it fits properly and provides optimum protection. You should also ensure that it is comfortable to wear for long periods of time so that your child is willing to wear it.

Kleines Mädchen mit dem Smiley 2.1 Kinderhelm Strawberry Rose auf Fahrrad.

Growth: Children grow quickly. It is therefore important to check the fit of the helmet regularly during the cycling season and adjust it if necessary.

Design: Children usually like helmets in bright colours and with trendy patterns. If your child likes the helmet, they will be happy to wear it. In addition to greater acceptance, visually striking children's helmets are also more noticeable in traffic – another plus for the safety of little ones.
Weight: Make sure the helmet is lightweight so as not to weigh down your child's head unnecessarily and to relieve strain on their neck.
Flexible adjustment range: A helmet with an adjustment system (e.g. via a dial or knob) can grow with children for some time, provided the size of the helmet allows this.

A brief explanation of helmet types

There are different types of helmets for different needs, and each requires individual adjustment to ensure that the helmet fits properly.

MTB/full-face helmet: For mountain bikers or BMX riders who need extra protection for their face, a full-face helmet or MTB helmet is ideal. This type of helmet covers the entire head, including the chin area, and often has a particularly robust chin guard.

City and touring helmets: These helmets usually offer a good balance of protection, ventilation and comfort and are ideal for everyday use.

Sports and road bike helmets: These helmets are usually lighter and more aerodynamic and have good ventilation systems, making them ideal for sporting activities.

Adjusting your bicycle helmet correctly – step by step

1. Position

Place the helmet horizontally on your head and place your index and middle fingers on one eyebrow. The upper finger should touch the bottom edge of the helmet.

2. Belt guide

Place your index and middle fingers on the side straps to form a V shape. The tip of the V should be at your earlobe.

3. Fine adjustment

There should be no more than two fingers width of space between the fastened strap and your chin.

Care & Maintenance

Maintain optimal fit:

Clean regularly: A bicycle helmet should be checked regularly for damage and kept clean.
Replace after a fall: Replace the helmet after a heavy impact or after five years at the latest, as the material loses its protective effect over time.
Wear and tear: If the straps are worn out after frequent use or if the bicycle helmet no longer fits your head shape perfectly, it will no longer fit properly and therefore will not provide the best possible protection against head injuries in the event of an accident.
Storage: Store the helmet in a dry place away from direct sunlight.

You can find more tips and information on caring for and maintaining your helmet in this guide.

A helmet only protects if it fits properly.

A well-fitting bicycle helmet is an essential part of your safety equipment when cycling. By measuring your head circumference correctly, ensuring you have a good adjustment system and adjusting the helmet correctly, you can ensure that the helmet offers you optimum protection in an emergency. It is particularly important to regularly check and adjust the fit of children's helmets, as their head circumference changes constantly as they grow. A children's helmet with an adjustable size is ideal for this, as it grows with the child, so to speak. With these tips, you are well equipped to stay safe and protected on the road during the cycling season.

Always remember: safety comes first, and a well-fitting helmet can make all the difference in an emergency.

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