Cycling helmets take a beating. They absorb impacts during falls, scrape along rough roads, and battle sun, rain, snow and sweat.
While strong, bike helmets don’t last indefinitely. Their protective foams and outer shells can degrade. Straps can fray or buckles weaken.
So check your biking helmet for sale these 5 signs indicating replacement:
Visible cracks
Sun damage
Previous crashes
Expired production date
Failing straps/fit
1. Visible Cracks Or Holes
Your helmet’s hard outer plastic shell helps distribute and minimize impact. But it can develop fractures over years of jostling.
Carefully check ALL sides and angles of your helmet exterior for:
Cracks
Dents
Deep scratches exposing foam
Actual holes!
Any cracks around vents or the rim signify the structure has been compromised. The helmet can no longer disperse energy as effectively upon crashing.
Ditch any helmet exhibiting fractures or holes. Its protective abilities are severely reduced. Don’t gamble your brain on breakable gear!
2. Sun And Weather Damage
Bike helmets aren’t just punctured from crashes. Years baking under the sun also degrades materials substantially.
Scan your helmet for:
Faded, discolored or peeling shell: Sun bleaches plastic over time. But more importantly, UV rays break down protective foam layers. A chalky, cracked exterior means interior materials have weakened.
Warping or malformed shape: On hot days, some helmets can warp slightly if left resting on seats/dashboards. The helmet may no longer offer flush, snug head coverage.
Built up dirt/grime: Helmets worn daily build up sweat residue and clingy particulate inside pads. This decreases comfort and hygiene!
Any of the above indicate aging unfit for safe cruising. The materials have grown porous and may not cushion blows properly.
Spruce up your look with a fresh lid boasting full integrity!
3. Previous Crashes
This one’s easy. Helmets are mainly single-impact devices. Like crumple zones in cars, their foams crush to absorb one hard smash. Additional hits are risky.
After any accident, closely inspect your helmet for:
Cracks in plastic shell or vents
Dents larger than a dime
Visibly compressed/crumbled foam segments
Multiple impacts in the same spot overwhelm these delicate interior lattices. Their protective capacities downgrades severely. Always opt for a new replacement helmet after crashes resulting in head impacts.
Don’t forget - it’s your brain on the line during future falls! What could be more valuable than sparing grey matter?
4. Expired Helmet Age/Production Date
Bicycle helmets should not be used indefinitely. Their materials and adhesives still erode slightly year after year through normal wear and tear.
Most brands stamp production dates inside helmets. Check this during inspections. We recommend swapping out lids older than 5-10 years maximum for optimal security.
If no production date, examine the helmet for anyIndirect signals of aging like:
Faded logos/graphics
Dried out/cracked pads
Brittle/rusted snaps
Upgrade outdated models for the latest engineering innovations and safest, longest-lasting materials on the market. Your helmet should resemble fresh, not left deteriorating in the back of a dusty garage!
5. Faulty Straps/Fit
Other factors degrading helmets? Subpar straps and poor fit interfering with protection.
Scan straps closely for:
Fraying or ripped edges
Severe discoloration from sun/sweat indicating brittleness
Missing plastic end tips necessary for adjusting sizing
Buckles failing to clamp firmly or hold adjustments
Ill-fitting helmets hamper safety by rotating excessively on your head during crashes.
Ensure yours still provides flush contact all around your skull without painful “hot spots” rubbing certain areas.
If your helmet sits awkwardly or feels loose/tight, the interior pads likely compacted over time. This alters shape and critical grip needed when it matters most.
Prioritize a cozy replacement boasting a fresh grip that won’t spin out of place when you spill!
Bonus Tips: Choosing Your Next Helmet
When selecting a new bicycle helmet, keep these key tips in mind:
Match helmet style to riding type: Road racers need super lightweight, ventilated lids. Mountain bikers require more head coverage plus optionally visors. Take your pick!
Ensure proper size match: Helmets come in Small, Medium, Large sizing. Measure your head circumference and compare to brand charts. Proper fit prevents spinning.
Prioritize safety certifications: Look for stickers inside helmets indicating certification by groups like CPSC. This validates rigorous impact testing.
Inspect comfort and adjustments: On trying helmets in store, ensure thick padding with no painful pressure points. Straps should adjust easily for ideal positioning.
Consider helpful bonus features: Some modern helmets add perks like sunglass slits, reflective bits, integrated lights and more! Decide if these suit your night riding needs.
Choose designs you love: Helmets today come in myriad colors, graphics, shapes. Pick options coordinating with your bike/clothing style! Safety meets beauty.
Now go shop the latest biking helmets for sale knowing what technology and traits to seek for maximum security. Then hit the road or trails feeling totally at ease during your adventurous exploits!
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