Ski Helmets Buying Guide, Stores, and Prices
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Ski Helmets - Put a lid on it!

Congratulations, you've decided to protect your noggin against the perils of the ski slope! Helmets  are an invaluable part of your ski outfit--take it from someone who has hit a tree more than once, you'll be glad you've got it on, especially if you like to venture off the beaten path into the woods (accidentally or intentionally).

No matter how tempting, don't dedicate a helmet from another sport as your ski helmet . Your bicycle helmet will not keep you warm on the slopes and safe on the snow.

Ski Helmet Styles

Take a look at these styles to help you find which one works best for your needs. 

Ear Flaps 

  • Some helmets have separate soft ear flaps. Keeps your ears toasty.
  • Better hearing and more flexibility of fit.
  • Adequate for most users.

Solid Ear-Covering Helmet 

  • Covers the ear with an extension of the helmet. Sometimes has a mouth guard as well.
  • Perfect for the more gutsy skier.

Full-Head Helmet 

  • Usually only used by professional racers.
  • Bulky for the average user.
  • Complete coverage, including a face shield.

Safety

  • Clearly, safety is on your mind--otherwise, why buy a helmet?
  • Look for helmets with CE, ASTM, or Snell RS-98 certification.
  • Every season brings helmets that are lighter, stronger, and more comfortable as material technology continues to advance.

Fit

Following the safety advice, it's extremely important to find a helmet that fits or else you're risking a danger to your noggin if you accidentally pitch yourself off the slope. Additionally, a loose- or tight-fitting head piece will only distract you from the pleasures of the sport.

  • You want your helmet to fit snugly, but not too tight or too loose.
  • Check for gaps--you don't want cold air to sneak in.
  • If you usually wear a helmet liner, be sure to try the head piece while wearing the liner, just as you would try a shoe with a sock.
  • Make sure your goggles will fit over the helmet and closely to your face. Not all helmets and goggles  are compatible.
  • The ABC of Snowboarding gives us an article about buying helmets for skiing or snowboarding, with detailed instructions about measuring your head and finding your helmet size.

Features

  • Air Vents
    • Narrow slits in your helmet top, but still insulated from the wind.
    • Keep your head from overheating.
    • A helmet liner will keep your skull warm when it's particularly cold.
  • Goggle Loop
    • Small snap-able plastic loop at the back of the helmet.
    • Fastens the goggle strap in place so that your goggles can't come off your helmet.
  • Headphones
    • The latest feature in helmet technology are helmets with built-in headphones.
    • Some models have two jacks--one for your MP3 player and one for your cell phone or walkie-talkie.
    • Ask yourself, though, if you feel confident enough to ski with those kinds of distractions constantly available.

Major Manufacturers

Here are some of the popular manufacturers of Ski Helmets. They are all made according to safety standards so you won't have to feel concerned with any of these brands. 

Women's Ski Helmets

Women's ski helmets are made slightly smaller to fit a woman's head and often come in feminine patterns for a female-specific look. 

RED Hi-Fi Women's Helmet  

The Red Hi-Fi Women's helmet is a popular choice year after year. The 2009 version has a white background with a graphic pink print on the back for a fun and feminine look.

Giro Shiv Snow Helmet 

The Giro Shiv helmet is a funky way to keep safe while on the slopes. There is a wide variety of color palettes available so you can go with a subdued gray if bright blue and yellow is too crazy.

Bern Women's Berkeley Helmet 

This helmet is a nice, basic option for women who don't like the pink colors or girlie patterns on some of the other models.

Men's Ski Helmets

Salomon Patrol Helmet 

The Salomon patrol helmet is not your ordinary old helmet. It's got a cool modern design so you can show off on the slopes.

Giro G9 Helmet 

The G9 helmet has an impact-absorbing liner to keep your head safe from any slips or falls. Its plain design is sleek yet simple.

Smith Sports Holt Helmet 09/10 

The Holt men's helmet is an excellent pairing with goggles. It allows enough airflow to prevent fogging. 

Top Sellers

Lucky Bums Kids Ski and Snowboard Helmet 

Your kids will be safe and snug in this helmet. It has an adjustable strap, an anti-bacterial treated lining, and is made to fit comfortably.

Giro Encore 2 2009 Snow Helmet 

This helmet is sturdy enough to endure even the most treacherous sports day so you can get the most out of your activities and spend less time worrying if it fits right.

Giro Slingshot Snow Helmet 

The Giro Slingshot comes with so many custom designs, including one by Paul Frank. Show off your flair for fashion as well as your mad skills.

Smith Optics Unisex Adult Variant Snow Sports Helmet 

This helmet should balance safety and comfort with ease so you don't have to keep readjusting while you're out on the slopes.

Bern Watts EPS Helmet 

This helmet has a visor to keep the sun out of your eyes, allowing you to avoid any trees that sneak up on you.

Related Guides

For all of our skiing needs, check out these other buying guides to help you with the shopping process.

Poles

Grab some poles before hitting the slope; you'll need them!

Boots

Boots and bindings go hand in hand, so you may want to look for both simultaneously. 

Bindings

Bindings are an important choice in the ski buying process--make sure you get the right pair for your style.

Jackets

Grab a high quality, waterproof jacket to keep from getting too chilly when the temperatures drop.

Goggles

Goggles will help you see during harsh weather or viscous snow making machines. 

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