I'm not really sure how much money my dad wants to spend on one. Probably no more than $50, but I'm not sure.
I tried on an adult helmet that we already had, (I'm guessing a men's one) but it was too big!
I think it'd be nice to get a helmet that has a little hole for a pony-tail, but it's not the end of the world if it doesn't have one.
I live in Omaha, NE, so we have quite a few bike shops, as well as a bunch of sporting goods stores.
I know we don't want to buy one off the internet. Should I go to a bike or sporting goods store, or just go to target or wal-mart?
Is there really a big difference between $25 helmets and $50 helmets?
OH and if an adult helmet was too big, should I get a youth size? Or a women's size? Or what?
I don't want it to be super ugly either. I'm a 16 year old girl so if it looks really ugly I probably won't have any motivation to wear it.
OH and I ride about 6 miles on a paved trail each time I ride, and I go about 4-5 days a week.
2007-09-12 09:48:40 · 12 answers · asked by jamie68117 3 in Sports ➔ Cycling
Any helmet you like and fits will work. They are all tested and approved meeting govt. standards. At 16 you will need an adult helmet. Some models offer universal fit, 1 size fits all. I don't like those. Find a model you like with s,m,l sizing. An exact fit is achieved by using the extra pads that come with most helmets. You should be able to find quite a few under $50.
2007-09-12 23:40:11 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Maybe it's different where I live, but I find helmets that are expensive.
I go into my local bike dealer and see the helmets on the rack (they're sweet helmets, though), and they're all over 100$ a pop. Sure, some are DH helmets, but the skullcap helmets are still up there.
When I go to the cheapy kind of stores like Canadian Tire (eh?), I find the helmets a little more affordable. Are they stylish? Well... no, but they do the job. I'm a guy and the fashion statement thing isn't as big a deal as it would be for a lady. Go for a helmet with a visor. They're more practical and look "cooler" than the rounded dorky helmet style.
When you're looking for a helmet, look for one that has one of those adjustable screwy things at the back. Why? You can adjust the lateral size of the helmet on the go. Why is this good? Well, pretty much, one size fits all with a few exceptions. They don't break either (I've had my helmet for 3 years now). So, go for one of those. They're not uncommon, but just don't get a set-size helmet.
For the ponytail, don't worry about it. Yeah, I'm a guy, but I have long hair and go pony-tail when it's hot out. The trick is go for a normal pony tail and then shimmy the elastic down an inch or so. You'll still have the tail, but the helmet will fit on nicely. Don't worry about it.
Have fun!
2007-09-12 14:40:32 · answer #2 · answered by theVisionary 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
All the major brand helmets (Giro, Bell, Ascent) are certified to the same standard by the DOT. The difference between a $25 and $50 helmet is mainly how it looks, and maybe a couple features such as more vents, a visor or more lightweight construction. I would definitely recommend a visor on your helmet, it is functional for blocking the sun late in the day and makes all helmets a little less dorky.
I like the Giro Encinal, which according to REI is "ponytail compatible" and comes in several colors from Nashbar.com for $35 (see link below). It has an adjustable band inside for a "universal fit" which I was skeptical of, but have been really happy with for 2 years now. The outer helmet is smaller and lighter weight than my old Giro helmet, which makes it more comfortable. It is also well-vented to keep you cool.
Nashbar also has the Bell "Bella" women's helmet for $25. I don't have experience with that one, but it is also a universal fit.
If you're not comfortable buying one online, I think any helmet you would be happy wearing (and is certified) would be fine, from Wal-Mart, or a bike shop.
Matt
2007-09-12 10:44:17 · answer #3 · answered by matt_10710 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
There are different sized helmets, so is just a question to finding the right one.
I think that the difference between a 25, 50 and 100 buck helmet is just style, weight and how many vents it has.
The most important thing is that it fits you right! I think you can use a pony tail on most helments if you make it on the back of your head, if you want to start your pony tail on the top of your head, probably no no..... ;)
Giro has some very good helmets, Bell, Specialized and Trek as well, and probably there should be others.
2007-09-12 11:31:12 · answer #4 · answered by Roberto 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
I've been successful buying inexpensive on sale helmets from either nashbar or performance. I know others that have had problems with comfort and fit, and it can be an advantage to actually see, hold, and try on the item. Suspensions and straps and overall helmet design have greatly improved over the years. Protection is mandated and all sold meet standards. Cost is a lot about cosmetics, weight, and the shop. I like the bill, visor on off road helmets. Ducking deflects bushes and branches off the face and eyes. They're often on sale for less than $20 online.
2016-05-18 00:03:49 · answer #5 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
first of all riding with out a helmet whether it looks good are not should never be a consideration. I have a cousin that did and she is blind and has epilepsy from a brain injury stained wail riding with out a helmet. so vanity mite be your undoing. secondly fit is the most important point in a helmet. If it doesn't fit it cant protect in a fall. Secondly no helmets sold in the US can be sold with out a US Dot approval number. this is important lets the consumer know that the helmet meets or exceeds US safety standers. You mite also look for SEi certification and US CPSC safety Standards for children over age 5 and above. Sins in all likely hood You will have to buy a youth helmet in order to get the right size. I recommend going to a quality bike shop with good sales people. Lastly a visor is total optional sins no one should ever ride with out carbon fiber glasses on there face. Small rocks and wind blown sand can hit your eyes. trust me on that been there dun that. I know at 16 looking cool is what its about but id like to see every one riding for life. Do the right thing and buy smart! so target or bike shop doesn't mater. Cheap is just as good with all the certifications that helmets have to go throw.
2007-09-16 03:29:15 · answer #6 · answered by damaclese2 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
giro or bell
you can put the ponytail out the back
good to see another person riding thats young
im only 16 and i dont know any girls that ride at all
weaklings :D
the more expensive helmets have more air vents and are generally lighter
they all protect the same if there all approved and those are just more comfertable
2007-09-12 10:37:21 · answer #7 · answered by Chris W 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Haha ok fair enough. Look up Giro helmets they are affordable and stylish. Most do not look ugly.
2007-09-12 09:55:37 · answer #8 · answered by Blue_Falcon 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
here is a really great site for bicycle gear and bikes. they have quality items and really great prices. they seriously have everything you would need
http://2wheelbikes.com/
2013-12-12 05:47:42 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
go and try them on at a bike shop
2007-09-12 09:55:49 · answer #10 · answered by rich2481 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋