You can do without a lot of accessories when cycling. But if there's one thing you have to take with you, definitely choose a helmet.
Although the law in the Czech Republic only makes it compulsory to wear a helmet until you're 18, don't let that age limit you. It's often the helmet that can save your life. Sometimes all it takes is a slippery root, a bump in the road or a tram track to send you flying to the ground. Regardless of your experience, just wear a helmet on every ride.
How to choose the right one? First of all, it depends on what bike you're riding and where you're riding it. Here at Force you'll find the following types of helmets:
- road helmets: either aerodynamic or with air vents for better airflow
- MTB helmets: they have a visor, reinforced construction for increased fall protection and also plenty of ventilation holes
- downhill helmets: they are sturdy and have an integrated chin guard and built-in visor, reminiscent of motocross helmets, they are also called integral helmets
- BMX helmets: have a more robust construction, rounder shape, not as many vents and provide better protection for more extreme riding styles and jumps
- time trial helmets - designed to minimize wind resistance and integrated covers for vents
- urban helmets: universal helmets that have a simple design and are often more enclosed
- children's helmets - they are smaller in size and have a cheerful design, they can also be specially cut out for extra protection in sensitive areas such as temples
If you want to increase your safety even further, get a helmet with the MIPS system, which minimises the rotational energy generated when you fall on your head by using a resiliently attached shell inside the helmet to increase your level of protection. But be careful when choosing a size for helmets with MIPS. Because of the system implemented, the helmet size will shrink slightly, so if you are on the edge in size, you need to try the helmet on.
When it comes to choosing a size, it's better to try the helmet on in person. Although there are different size charts to help you choose, you may find that the helmet is too narrow or too wide for you. The helmet must fit perfectly to protect you. The helmet is most often adjusted on your head in two steps: the tightening wheel and the straps. The helmet shouldn't move when the wheel is tightened, and it shouldn't pinch you anywhere, and the straps shouldn't be too tight.
Get a new helmet after every major fall. It may be compromised on the inside and may not be visible to the naked eye. But what if you've never had a fall or you've had your helmet for 15 years and it still feels like new? Watch out! A helmet has a lifespan of about 5 years, after all, even the material ages and can become brittle, and this wear and tear may not be visible at first glance. Also, sweat and UV rays affect the helmet and lead to degradation.
And how to adjust the helmet properly? Watch the video where Zdenek shows you how to do it:
