Like any road user, the cyclist is exposed to certain risks. It is therefore highly recommended to wear a bicycle helmet on every ride, whether short or long, on roads, on trails, for commuting or for sports outings. The question remains how to choose the helmet best suited to your practice and needs.
WHICH HELMET FOR SPORTY CYCLING SESSIONS?
There are as many helmets as there are types of practices. A road bike helmet will be different from a mountain bike helmet, just as an urban helmet is intended for city biking and commuting.
ENDURO
Enduro is the most committed and demanding of the mountain biking disciplines. Whether on trails or in summer resorts, wearing a full-face helmet is essential for optimal protection during descents (DH). Thanks to its chin guard and coverage of the occipital area, it effectively protects the face and head.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Mountain biking helmets cater to a wide audience, with very varied levels of practice. You will therefore find them at all price points. They all have vents and a sporty shape, but some models are lighter and more comfortable to improve performance. Some helmets, like those from Cairn, include insect nets and a visor, two very practical elements.
ROAD
Road bike helmets also have large vents to ventilate the head and limit sweating, which is common in this practice. With their elongated and aerodynamic shape reducing wind resistance, they are very light and made with high-end materials for better performance.
WHICH HELMET FOR LEISURE CYCLING?
CITY
For your urban trips, choose a covering helmet with fewer vents but better protection surface. To pedal safely, you need to see and be seen: opt for a helmet with bright colors, reflective bands, or integrated lights, like the FUSION model equipped with removable LEDs at the back.
ELECTRIC BIKE (E-BIKE)
On an electric bike, the effort is less but the speed is higher, so is the risk. A more covering helmet, even equipped with a visor like the QUARTZ VISOR, is recommended to protect your eyes from wind and insects.
HYBRID BIKE
For hybrid bike (all-terrain bike) enthusiasts, choose a versatile, comfortable, and well-ventilated helmet, like the PRISM model, ideal for mixed road and trail outings.
Tip: Regardless of your level, the choice of helmet directly depends on your practice. It determines its shape, design, materials, and technologies.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT HELMET SIZE FOR OPTIMAL PROTECTION
Choosing the right type of helmet is essential, but it must also fit your size to offer optimal protection.
Measure your head circumference
Using a flexible tape measure, measure around your head: start from the middle of the forehead and pass by the occipital bump.
Convert your size
Sizes are often expressed in centimeters, but some brands use S / M / L:
- S: 52-55 cm
- M: 56-58 cm
- L: 59-62 cm
- XS: children's helmets
- XL: beyond 62 cm
These indications may slightly vary depending on the models.
Adjustments
Most helmets have adjustment systems (dials, foams, straps) to ensure a perfect fit. The helmet should be well adjusted and not move once on the head.
TECHNOLOGIES FOR OPTIMAL PROTECTION
Numerous innovations improve the safety, comfort, and performance of helmets, especially at Cairn.
In-Mold
An inseparable double layer distributes impacts for more lightness and durability.
AFC (Aero Flow Channel)
Direct ventilation in the helmet's EPS for more freshness and lightness.
OPZ (Occipital Protect Zone)
Enhanced neck protection, ideal for mountain biking and young cyclists.
THE CAIRN INNOVATIONS FOR MORE SAFETY
Flash Light Security
Removable lighting on urban helmets, repositionable on different equipment.
Reflective System
Reflective stickers for children and juniors for more visibility.
Magnetic buckle Fidlock
Magnetic closure, practical and secure.
Label Protect System
Cairn safety standards, superior to classic regulations.
Wheel Fit System
Precise adjustment to the nearest millimeter for a perfect fit.
Anti-insect net
Protects against intrusions during forest outings.
CHILDREN'S BIKE HELMETS
Since March 22, 2017, wearing a helmet is mandatory for children under 12 years old. Brands now offer models specially designed for their morphology, combining comfort, protection, and attractive design.
IN SUMMARY: CHOOSING THE RIGHT BIKE HELMET
Thanks to recent innovations, bike helmets are increasingly specialized to adapt to each practice: road, mountain biking, city, e-bike, or leisure. Today, the helmet is becoming more popular and appeals to both passionate cyclists and occasional practitioners.
The helmet is an essential protection element, but it does not replace vigilance and adherence to good practices on the road. Your safety depends as much on your equipment as on your behavior.
