A helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment for any cyclist. In Australia, wearing an approved helmet is not just sensible but legally required for riders of all ages. Yet many cyclists wear helmets that don't fit properly, are outdated, or aren't suited to their riding style. This guide will help you choose a helmet that provides genuine protection while being comfortable enough that you'll actually wear it.
Australian Law
Bicycle helmets are mandatory for all cyclists in Australia. Helmets must comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 2063. Failing to wear an approved helmet can result in fines ranging from $100 to over $300 depending on the state or territory.
Why Helmets Matter
Head injuries are the leading cause of death and serious disability in cycling accidents. Research consistently shows that properly fitted helmets reduce the risk of head injury by approximately 70% and the risk of severe brain injury by 88%. These statistics aren't abstract; they represent real protection in the moments that matter most.
Modern helmets work by absorbing and distributing impact energy that would otherwise be transferred directly to your skull and brain. The foam liner compresses on impact, extending the duration of the impact force and reducing its peak intensity. The hard outer shell prevents penetration and helps spread the force over a larger area.
Types of Cycling Helmets
Different riding styles benefit from different helmet designs. Understanding the options helps you choose the best match for your needs.
Standard Road and Recreational Helmets
These half-shell helmets are the most common type, suitable for general cycling, commuting, and recreational riding. They feature extensive ventilation, lightweight construction, and a visor-free design. Road helmets prioritise airflow and low weight, making them comfortable for extended rides in warm conditions.
BMX and Skate-Style Helmets
BMX helmets provide more coverage around the back and sides of the head, reflecting the increased risk of multi-directional impacts in trick riding. They typically have fewer vents and a rounder profile. Some BMX helmets meet both bicycle and skateboard safety standards, making them versatile for multiple action sports.
Full-Face Helmets
Full-face helmets extend coverage to include the chin and face, essential for downhill mountain biking and aggressive BMX riding where face-first impacts are possible. These helmets are heavier and hotter but provide maximum protection. Many modern designs feature removable chin bars for versatility.
Kids' Helmets
Children's helmets are scaled-down versions designed for smaller heads. They must meet the same safety standards as adult helmets. Many feature fun designs to encourage wear, but don't let aesthetics override proper fit and certification. Child-specific features often include simpler adjustment mechanisms that small hands can operate.
Helmet Types at a Glance
- Road/Recreational: Best for commuting, fitness, casual riding
- BMX/Skate: Best for skate parks, trick riding, wheelies
- Full-Face: Best for downhill, aggressive BMX, maximum protection
- Kids: Sized for smaller heads with easier adjustments
Getting the Right Fit
A helmet that doesn't fit properly won't protect you effectively. An overly loose helmet can shift or come off during a crash, while an overly tight helmet causes discomfort and headaches. Here's how to achieve proper fit:
Measure Your Head
Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head about 2.5cm above your eyebrows. This measurement corresponds to helmet sizing, typically expressed in centimetres or as small, medium, large. If you're between sizes, try both and choose the one that feels most secure.
Position
The helmet should sit level on your head, not tilted back or forward. The front edge should be approximately two finger-widths above your eyebrows. This position protects your forehead without obstructing vision.
Side Straps
The side straps should form a "V" shape directly under each ear. Adjust the slider mechanism until the V sits comfortably below the earlobe without pressing on the ear itself.
Chin Strap
The chin strap should be snug but not tight. You should be able to fit one finger between the strap and your chin. When you open your mouth wide, you should feel the helmet pull down slightly on your head. If the strap is too loose, the helmet can come off in a crash.
The Shake Test
Once adjusted, shake your head vigorously from side to side and up and down. The helmet should move with your head, not independently. If it wobbles or shifts, readjust or try a different size.
Safety Certifications
In Australia, bicycle helmets must meet the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 2063. Look for this certification label inside the helmet. Helmets sold in Australia should comply automatically, but if you're importing a helmet from overseas, verify it meets Australian standards.
Some helmets carry additional certifications:
- CPSC: US Consumer Product Safety Commission standard
- CE EN 1078: European safety standard
- Snell B: A more stringent voluntary standard from the Snell Memorial Foundation
While international standards are generally rigorous, AS/NZS 2063 compliance is legally required for riding in Australia.
MIPS and Rotational Impact Protection
Traditional helmet testing focuses on direct linear impacts, but research shows that rotational forces during angled impacts can cause serious brain injuries. Several technologies address this:
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System)
MIPS helmets feature a low-friction liner that allows the helmet to rotate slightly relative to your head during an angled impact. This rotation absorbs rotational energy that would otherwise be transferred to your brain. MIPS-equipped helmets are recognisable by their distinctive yellow liner.
Other Anti-Rotation Technologies
Several manufacturers have developed alternative rotational protection systems, including WaveCel (Bontrager), SPIN (POC), and Koroyd. Each uses different mechanisms to achieve similar goals. While the jury is still out on which technology is most effective, helmets with some form of rotational protection offer an additional safety margin.
Is MIPS Worth It?
MIPS and similar technologies add $20-50 to a helmet's price but provide protection against a significant injury mechanism. For riders engaging in higher-risk activities like BMX tricks or aggressive riding, the additional investment is worth considering.
Ventilation
Ventilation affects comfort, especially in Australia's warm climate. More vents typically mean better airflow but can slightly reduce protection coverage. For casual riding and commuting in hot weather, prioritise ventilation. For BMX and trick riding where more coverage is beneficial, accept reduced airflow in exchange for increased protection.
Weight
Helmet weights typically range from 200g to 450g. Lighter helmets reduce neck fatigue during long rides but often cost more due to advanced materials. For BMX riders focused on tricks rather than endurance, weight matters less than protection and fit.
When to Replace Your Helmet
Helmets don't last forever. Replace your helmet in these circumstances:
- After any impact: Even if there's no visible damage, the foam may be compressed and unable to protect in a subsequent crash
- Visible damage: Cracks, dents, or frayed straps indicate compromised integrity
- Age: Most manufacturers recommend replacement every 3-5 years as materials degrade over time
- Poor fit: If you've outgrown your helmet or it no longer adjusts to fit properly
The foam and materials in helmets degrade with exposure to UV light, sweat, and environmental factors. Even a helmet that looks perfect may have reduced protective capacity after several years of use.
Helmet Care and Storage
Proper care extends your helmet's lifespan:
- Clean with mild soap and water, avoiding solvents that can damage the foam
- Dry thoroughly before storage to prevent mould and odour
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Don't leave helmets in hot cars, as heat can degrade foam
- Replace worn padding to maintain proper fit
Teaching Kids About Helmet Safety
Establishing helmet habits early creates lifelong safety behaviours. Involve children in choosing their helmet to increase buy-in. Demonstrate proper fitting and let them practice putting it on themselves. Make helmet use non-negotiable: no helmet, no ride. Lead by example by always wearing your own helmet.
For very young children on balance bikes, ensure their neck muscles are strong enough to support the helmet's weight comfortably. Some toddlers may need lightweight, minimal helmets until they develop sufficient strength.
Final Thoughts
A properly fitted, certified helmet is a non-negotiable piece of cycling equipment. Whether you're commuting to work, teaching your toddler to ride a balance bike, or practicing wheelies in the park, helmet protection should always be part of the ride. Invest in quality, ensure proper fit, and replace when necessary. Your brain is irreplaceable; your helmet is not.