First Helmet Advice

sam_m

I realise this is probably over-simplifying things, but with a more expensive helmet are you generally paying for added comfort/aerodynamics/styling, or increased protection?

I've only just started riding, and I neither want to shell out a load of money for a lid nor break my head if I should fall off. I was looking at something like the Giro Tranfer as it looks OK and is relatively cheap. At this early stage I don't think I'd see much benefit from spending money on a flashier helmet, but I don't want to skimp where safety is concerned.

Will a cheap helmet offer similar protection to that of a fancy helmet (albeit in a less-pretty package) or are there vast differences in protection? (I realise the answer is probably 'a bit of both', but some general advice would be appreciated).

Thanks in advance.

skyd0g

There's no avoiding trying on helmets - get the one that fits you best as different manufacturers use different 'head-shapes'.

(very) Generally, more expensive = lighter, better vented, more adjustable, wider range of sizes.

cougie

A more expensive helmet doesnt protect you any more than a cheaper one if they both bear the same safety sticker.

Philby

Downsides of cheaper helmets tend to be the lower amount of airflow of the helment rather than the safety, so you may get a hotter and sweatier head. However as stated above forget the cost and buy one that fits as different makes suit different head shapes.

Bunneh

Just as a side note make sure YOU like the look of it. If you don't like the look you're less likely to wear it.

johnnyL

More expensive models aren’t always better. I recently replaced an expensive ‘Specialised’ model with a cheaper ‘Bell’ model. The Bell feels cooler and is a much better fit.

As stated above, models from different manufacturers are suited to certain shaped heads, so make sure you try on as many as you can.

A good-fitting cheap helmet is safer than an bad-fitting expesive model.