The helmet worn by bicycle commuters as well as recreational riders is essential, not only for safety, but for the rider’s well-being. If the helmet is uncomfortable, the rider won’t wear it.
I can personally attest to the absolute necessity of wearing a helmet while riding. On December 29, 2006 I was hit by a delivery truck on my way to work. I survived my head being slammed against the pavement because I wore my helmet. It did its job.
Helmets are made for a single impact. After that, they need to be replaced. The foam cells do not re-expand afterwards.
Here is a list of the top three women’s bicycle helmets:
1. The Giro Skyla Bike Helmet is available at Rei.com. This affordable helmet has no less than 20 vents to allow airflow to the scalp, meaning your head won’t fry while you’re riding. The chin and anchor straps are adjustable with one hand while you’re riding with the other. That’s a huge plus on or off-road.
2. Specialized S-Works Women’s Bike Helmet can be found at AJ Sporting Goods.com. This is the lightest certified safety helmet in the world for bicyclists. Worn my many racing teams, it can also be worn by bicycle commuters. With patented double density EPS (Extruded Polystyrene) shells, the rider is well protected in a fall.
3. Find the Bell Metro Helmet at Nashbar.com. This helmet is specifically designed for safety, and blend in with your clothing style. Attach one or more blinkie lights to the helmet’s soft shell bottom wrap for visibility to drivers and other riders. There is an optional winter kit available for this helmet for riding in cold weather. Few, if any, other helmets offer this option.
Any of these helmets can be worn on or off-road. Price ranges vary with manufacturer and merchant. Helmets are also available at big box stores as well as specialized bicycle shops.
Proper fit is essential to surviving a crash with the helmet. The strap under the chin should just touch the skin, not hang below it. Sales associates in bicycle shops are happy to help you adjust the helmet for a perfect fit.
