BADCC Hints and Tips
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Now we are in the middle of the winter white water season, it is a good time to check whether your helmet is still effective. So go and dig it out and take a good look at it.
- Is it showing any signs of wear of damage, such as compression or aging of the foam inside the shell or any damage to the outer shell?
- Is the chin strap securely fixed and in good condition?
If it fails a simple visual inspection then I recommend that you cut it into two pieces so that it cannot be used and then put it in the dustbin.
Now find a mirror and try on the helmet but do not fasten the chin strap.
- Does it come low enough to protect your forehead and temples?
- Does it provide adequate protection to the back of your head without compromising your ability to look up?
If the helmet does not cover your head properly then it is time to buy a replacement.
If the helmet is in good condition and provides adequate cover then it is time to check the fit, with the chin strap still unfastened. Try sliding a finger between the helmet and your head: if you can get a finger in then the helmet does not fit and will need adjusting. Depending on the design, it may be possible to adjust an inner cradle or add more foam paddling to improve the fit. Once you cannot get your finger between your head and helmet, try rocking the helmet backwards and forwards and twisting from side to side. If the helmet fits properly, the skin on your forehead should move with the helmet. If it does not, then you need to spend more time adjusting the fit.
Finally adjust the chin strap so that it holds the helmet snugly in place. If your helmet has a single strap you can only adjust its length, but if it has a two point attachment on each side you can also adjust the relative length of each strap to prevent the helmet rolling back or forward.
Look after your helmet when you are not paddling. Clean it and dry it after use. Store it somewhere cool, dry and away from direct sunlight.
Remember you only have one head. I have recently replaced my helmet and spent in excess of £100 to buy a helmet that I have confidence will provide me protection on grade 3 and 4 white water. I consider that to be money well spent - saving money by buying an inferior helmet is not a risk that I am prepared to take.
Date first published: December 2006 by Peter Mansell
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