Yes, you should be buying a helmet as part of your skateboarding outfit!
Skateboarding is an amazing sport to get into, one that millions of people around the world enjoy every day. However, as with all sports, it also carries a certain level of risk. Skateboarding accidents can result in serious head injuries, and wearing a helmet is one of the most effective ways of reducing the risk of such injuries.
Skateboarding helmets are designed to protect the head from impact, with the aim of minimising the risk of brain injury. They’re generally made of a hard outer shell, and a layer of foam padding on the inside that absorbs impact. The helmets cover the top, sides, and back of the head, providing maximum protection to the skull and brain.
Wearing a helmet while skateboarding is not just crucial for personal safety, it’s also a mandatory requirement in a lot of skateparks. In some places, it’s even illegal to ride without a helmet.
Even if you’re not so concerned about your own safety, wearing a helmet can also serve as a good example to others, especially younger people who are just starting to learn to skate. As a responsible skateboarder, wearing a helmet shows that you value your personal safety, and encourages others to do the same.
Picking the right helmet can be a bit of a pain, with so many options to choose from – read on for some easy inspiration from our top 15 skateboarding helmets.
The 15 Best Skateboarding Helmets (tested based on sturdiness & value for money)
1. Triple Eight Sweatsaver Liner Skateboarding Helmet
First up, we’ve got a classic skate helmet from Triple Eight, with an ABS outer shell and a moisture-wicking Sweatsaver liner. The Sweatsaver pads will break in for optimal fit after a couple of hours. Available in five sizes, this helmet comes with an adjustable chin strap and a manufacturer’s 180-day limited warranty.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking Sweatsaver liner
- Adjustable chin strap for a secure fit
- Available in five sizes
Cons
- Not tested under CPSC, ASTM, or CE safety standards
2. JBM Skateboard Helmet
Next up, this skateboard helmet is a great option suitable for various outdoor sports activities. It features an adjustable strap for a customized fit and has a tough PVC and PC outer shell with EPS foam for impact resistance. The helmet comes with multiple vents, and breathable foam to keep you cool and reduce sweating.
Pros
- Suitable for multiple sports activities
- Adjustable strap for a customised fit
- Tough material for impact resistance
- Multiple vents and breathable foam for ventilation
Cons
- No information provided on safety certifications
3. OutdoorMaster Skateboard Cycling Helmet
This durable skateboarding helmet is built for extreme impact resistance, with a reinforced ABS shell and thickened shock-absorbing EPS core. It features an extra removable lining for different head sizes, a great ventilation system, and double adjustment for a customised fit. It’s also suitable for multiple sports, including cycling and scootering.
Pros
- Durable construction for impact resistance
- Removable lining for easy cleaning and customised fit
- Double adjustment for a comfortable, secure fit
Cons
- Some users may prefer a helmet with more padding or ventilation
4. Triple Eight THE Certified Sweatsaver Helmet
An awesome option from Tipple Eight, this dual-certified skateboard helmet offers excellent impact protection with its impact-absorbing EPS foam and dual-density soft inserts. The moisture-wicking Sweatsaver fabric also adds a high level of comfort, and should prevent it from smelling too much. The helmet comes with two sets of removable, washable Sweatsaver liners to ensure a custom fit, while the adjustable helmet strap with a side-release buckle keeps the helmet securely in place.
Pros
- Dual-certified for safety
- Includes two sets of removable, washable liners for a custom fit
- Meets both bicycle and skate safety standards
Cons
- None to mention
5. Flybar Bike Helmet
This helmet by Flybar is a versatile option for a variety of sports, including skateboarding, rollerblading, BMX, and more. Its durable construction features high-quality materials and shock-absorbing foam for added protection, all at an affordable price.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Shock-absorbing foam for lots of protection
- Adjustable spin dial for a secure fit
- Aerodynamic ventilation for comfort
- Removable and washable pads for easy cleaning
Cons
- May not be as specialised as sport-specific helmets
6. Outdoor Master Skateboard Premium Helmet
This skateboard helmet is designed for both comfort and impact resistance with a reinforced ABS shell and optimised shock-absorbing EPS core. It features two removable liners for different head sizes, making it easy to wash away sweat after every use. The double adjustment feature allows for a perfect fit with an adjustment dial and skin-friendly adjustable chin strap.
Pros
- Durable design
- Extra removable lining for different head sizes and easy washing
- Double adjustment feature for a perfect fit
Cons
- Not as high quality as more expensive options
7. JBM Skateboard Helmet
The dial adjuster on the back of this helmet allows for a customised fit, and the skin-friendly adjustable chin strap with padded cushion ensures maximum comfort. The solid ABS outer shell and 0.8 inches of EPP core make it impact-resistant, and, you’ll be pleased to hear, environmentally friendly. Multiple vents and a special aerodynamic design keep the rider cool and reduce sweating during intense activities, even on hot sunny days.
Pros
- Customised fit with dial adjuster and adjustable chin strap
- Impact-resistant and environmentally friendly material
- Ventilation system keeps the rider cool
Cons
- Size options may not fit all head shapes and sizes
8. Pro-Tec Skate-and-Skateboarding-Helmet
This skateboard helmet features a high-impact shell with a certified EPS liner for maximum protection from multiple impacts based on ASTM F1492. The compression-moulded liner pads provide added comfort, while the 11 vents help to keep the rider cool while skating hard. The adjustable length straps with a secure locking buckle allow for a customised fit.
Pros
- Compression-moulded liner pads for added comfort
- Adjustable length straps with secure locking buckle
- 45 years of experience making helmets
Cons
- 11 vents may not provide enough airflow for some skaters
9. Vihir Adult Water Sports Helmet with Ears
The Vihir outdoor water sports helmet is a great helmet that’s suitable for a variety of outdoor activities – including skateboarding. The helmet is equipped with an adjustable sizing system and removable ears, ensuring that every user can achieve a perfect fit.
Pros
- Adjustable sizing and removable ears for a comfortable fit
- Ventilation system to stop you from getting too hot
- Rust-resistant and strong stainless steel rivets
Cons
- The ears may not suit everyone
10. GLAMVILLA Skateboard Helmet
The Glamvilla helmet provides certified safety, with a reinforced PC shell and specialised EPS core. Its lightweight design, at only 220-300g, makes it easy to wear while providing maximum protection. This multi-sport piece of kit is suitable for activities like cycling, skateboarding, and roller skating, and comes in 8 colours and 3 sizes to fit users of different ages and stylistic preferences.
Pros
- Certified safety with reinforced shell and EPS core
- Lightweight design for reduced burden
- Triple adjustment for a comfortable and customisable fit
- Multi-sporting gear for various outdoor activities
Cons
- No significant cons!
11. Retrospec Remi Kids’ Helmet
This kids’ skateboard helmet offers both comfort and safety with breathable materials and 11 air vents for a cool, comfortable fit. The built-in visor provides better visibility, while the helmet’s easy-adjust nylon straps and ErgoKnob dial ensure a perfect fit.
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable with 11 air vents
- Built-in visor provides better visibility
- Easy-adjust nylon straps and ErgoKnob dial for a perfect fit
- Removable and washable interior padding for easy cleaning
Cons
- No specific information provided about impact protection or certification beyond CPSC standard
12. Kids Skateboard Helmet – GIEMIT
For the younger skaters out there, this is a great affordable option. The helmet features 12 air vents to keep the head cool, while the rugged ABS outer shell and EPS foam inner shell provide impact resistance to reduce the risk of injury.
Pros
- Adjustable size for a perfect fit
- Comfortable and breathable with 12 air vents
- Suitable for multiple outdoor sports
- Comes with a 1-year support guarantee
Cons
- None at this price
13. Razor V-17 Youth Multi-Sport Helmet
With its side-release buckles, this helmet is easy to adjust and fasten quickly. Its sleek black gloss colour looks great, and the helmet fits head sizes ranging from 21.5 to 23 inches, making it suitable for ages 8 to 14 in most cases.
Pros
- Ergonomic interior padding for comfort
- A massive 17 top and side vents for breathability
- Side-release buckles for easy adjustments
- Complies with CPSC standards
Cons
- Limited range of head sizes (21.5 to 23 inches)
14. Triple Eight Helmet with Visor
This dual-certified helmet is specifically designed for roller derby and meets U.S. CPSC and ASTM F-1492 safety standards. It comes with a CE-certified impact-resistant polycarbonate visor with anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings. The helmet has two sets of removable, washable terrycloth Sweatsaver liners for a customised fit, and an adjustable strap with a side-release buckle.
Pros
- Dual-certified for roller derby and bike/skate safety standards
- Comes with a durable and protective visor
- Customizable fit with two sets of liners and adjustable strap
Cons
- The visor won’t suit everyone
15. TSG – Pass Pro Full-face Helmet w/Two Visors
To round things off, we’ve got something a little different – a full-face helmet for those looking to go incredibly fast. The Pass Pro skateboard helmet offers outstanding peripheral vision with no fogging, and features two spherical visors, scratch-proof and with anti-fog coating, and an exhalation-fogging-blocker to ensure optimal vision.
Pros
- Outstanding peripheral vision and no fogging
- Strong and light full-face protection
- Shock-absorbing EPS inner shell
- Well-ventilated for added comfort
Cons
- Sizing tends to run small
What beginners need to know about choosing the best skateboarding helmet for their requirements
If those options listed above have only got you more confused, then let’s take a look at some of the specifics to consider when buying a skateboard helmet. When choosing a helmet, there are several things you need to think about, including size, fit, safety ratings, and material. The helmet must be the correct size and fit securely on your head, in order to provide the necessary protection in case of a fall. The style of the helmet and the level of protection can also vary, depending on what kind of skateboarding you’re into.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the essential factors to consider when choosing a skateboard helmet. With this information, you should be ready to find the perfect option that can keep you safe and confident while out riding, no matter where you are.
Size and fit
Choosing the right size of helmet is crucial for your safety while skateboarding. A helmet that’s too small won’t provide adequate protection to the back and sides of your head, while a helmet that’s too large can shift and fail to protect you during a fall.
To determine the correct size, measure the circumference of your head with a soft tape measure or string. The tape measure should rest just above your eyebrows and ears. Once you have your measurement, consult the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer to find the appropriate size for your head circumference. Keep in mind that different brands may have different sizing charts, so be sure to double-check before purchasing.
If you find that your head circumference measurement falls between sizes, it’s generally recommended to go with the larger size. Some helmets also come with additional foam wedges that can be installed into the removable cheek pads to adjust the thickness for a perfect fit. Remember, a properly fitting helmet is essential for your safety while skateboarding, so take the time to find the right size and return an option if it doesn’t fit.
Safety rating
When it comes to choosing a helmet for skateboarding, safety ratings are of the utmost importance. The most common safety standards for skateboarding helmets are the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) certifications. These certifications ensure that the helmet meets strict safety guidelines, and that it’s effective at reducing the amount of force transferred to the head during impact.
It’s important to note that not all helmets are created equal, and some may not meet these safety standards. It’s always best to choose a helmet that has been tested and certified to ensure maximum protection.
Materials
The materials used in a helmet can have a significant impact on its safety and performance. As a result, you’ll want to get a helmet that’s made using only the best, to ensure your ongoing safety.
The outer shell of the helmet is usually made of plastic, or in some cases even carbon fibre – these materials are chosen for their durability, light weight, and ability to absorb impact. The inner liner is typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is designed to absorb the force of a hit and protect the head from injury.
In addition to the materials used in the helmet’s construction, it’s important to think about any additional features that may affect its safety and performance. Helmets with anti-fog coatings on visors or ventilation systems can also improve safety, by ensuring clear vision when skating at high speed and preventing overheating.
Visors
Finally, consider whether or not you want to choose a helmet that includes a visor. A visor can offer additional protection for the face, particularly during high-speed falls, which can be potentially useful if you’re racing or doing downhill skating. It can also provide better visibility by reducing glare and protecting the eyes from the wind.
When choosing a helmet with a visor, it’s important to think about the type of visor you want. Some visors are made of impact-resistant materials, which provides better protection against impact. Others may be made of less durable plastics that are more prone to scratches or cracking.
Conclusion
Clearly, there’s a lot of thought that can go into choosing a skateboarding helmet. Armed with your newfound knowledge, it should now be a lot easier to choose the right helmet, one that’s perfect for your specific needs and will protect you for years to come.
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