
Buyers guide: Choosing a good helmet (infographic)

Looking for a good ski helmet or snowboard helmet for winter sports? With us, you’ll find a wide range of helmets for skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, and splitboarding. Some helmets are even suitable for climbing sports. But which helmet should you choose with so many options available? We are here to help you make the right choice for you.
In this article, we guide you in measuring your helmet size and determining your head shape. To help you get a properly fitting helmet, we at Snowcountry have identified which head shape fits which makes and models.
Also check out our infographic on how to find a good-fitting helmet.
What helmet size do I need?
A helmet only provides good protection when it fits your head properly. Therefore, it’s important that your helmet isn’t too big or too small. To find the right size ski or snowboard helmet, start by measuring your head circumference.
How to measure your head circumference?
Use a tape measure to measure your head circumference. Wrap the tape measure around your head, just above the ears. Try to keep the tape as horizontal as possible. The number of centimeters is your head circumference. Use your head circumference to determine which helmet size you need.
No tape measure at hand? Use a piece of string or ribbon and measure its length with a ruler. Make sure the string or ribbon doesn’t stretch.
With the measured head circumference, you can determine which helmet size you need. Refer to the chart below. Note that each brand uses its own sizing chart, and some brands, such as Sweet Protection, POC, Oakley, Kask, and TSG, differ significantly. You’ll find the specific brand’s sizing chart in the product description of each helmet. Always refer to the sizing chart in the product description before purchase.
- Size XS: 50 - 52 cm
- Size S: 52 - 56 cm
- Size M: 56 - 59 cm
- Size L: 59 - 63 cm
- Size XL: 63 - 67 cm
Note: Always check the product description to confirm the exact size you need before purchasing a helmet!
Determine your head shape
Now that you know your head size, it’s time to look at your head shape. Each brand fits slightly differently. That’s why we’ve mapped out which brands and models suit different head shapes to help you make a better choice.
How to determine your head shape?
We start with the shape of your head. We distinguish four head shapes: round, round/oval, oval, and long oval. To determine your head shape, take a photo of the top of your head. It’s easiest if someone else takes the photo. Ensure your hair is as flat as possible in the photo. Then, critically analyze the photo to determine your head shape. See the image below as an example.
Once you know your head shape, you can identify which brands and models suit your head shape with the image below.
Adjustability of ski and snowboard helmets
When buying a ski or snowboard helmet, it’s always helpful to consider adjustability. Many helmets today are equipped with a dial, allowing you to make the helmet larger or smaller. However, some helmets lack this feature, while others offer additional adjustability to enhance comfort. For instance, there are now helmets with a 360º fit system, such as a BOA 360 or Sphere Fit. Turning the dial with these systems adjusts not only the circumference but also the entire inner shell of the helmet.
3 types of helmets: in-mold, hardshell, hybrid
Now that you know your helmet size and which brands and models match your head shape, it’s time to look at the type of helmet. It’s essential to know that there are three types of helmets: in-mold, hardshell, and hybrid. The difference lies in construction, impacting weight, comfort, and safety.
In-mold construction
In-mold ski or snowboard helmets are suitable for piste skiers and snowboarders who want protection from falls and collisions. These helmets are lightweight, compact, and typically offer good ventilation. The lightweight nature also makes them ideal for children.
An in-mold helmet consists of an EPS foam layer with a sturdy outer shell. While the outer shell provides good protection, it’s not resistant to hard objects or extreme impacts. This makes these helmets less suitable for off-piste and very experienced skiers and snowboarders descending at very high speeds.
Hardshell construction
Hardshell helmets are commonly used by freeriders and other winter sports enthusiasts who occasionally venture off-piste. These helmets provide protection against falls and impacts from hard objects, such as branches and rocks.
A hardshell consists of a hard, robust outer shell with a foam layer inside. The outer shell of a hardshell is much stronger than that of an in-mold helmet, offering superior protection against heavy objects. However, hardshell helmets are relatively heavy and have fewer ventilation options.
Hybrid construction
A hybrid ski or snowboard helmet combines the qualities of an in-mold and hardshell helmet, making it suitable for almost all on- and off-piste winter sports activities.
Hybrid helmets feature an in-mold construction with a hardshell on the top to protect against heavy objects and significant impacts. The in-mold construction provides comfort and a lighter weight compared to a hardshell. Additionally, these helmets usually offer good ventilation options.
In-mold | Hybrid | Hardshell | |
Weight | Very lightweight | Lightweight | Heavy |
Ventilation options | Many | Good | Few |
Protection | Good | Better | Best |
MIPS technology
Have you heard of MIPS technology in helmets? MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System, a safety mechanism specifically designed to better protect the brain from harmful rotational forces during an angled impact on the helmet. This innovation addresses the fact that impacts on helmets are often not perfectly vertical but at an angle.
MIPS is an extra layer between the outer shell and the foam layer of the helmet. During an angled impact, this layer can shift a few millimeters, reducing the rotational force. MIPS is proven to be effective, and more helmets are now equipped with MIPS technology.
Other MIPS systems
Some brands have developed their own MIPS systems. For example, Anon helmets feature WaveCel technology, while Atomic helmets include AMID technology. These systems function differently but aim to reduce rotational forces upon impact, similar to MIPS technology.
If you want a helmet that offers optimal protection during falls, we recommend purchasing one with MIPS, AMID, or WaveCel technology.
Visor Helmet
Visor helmets are becoming increasingly popular. The visor is part of the helmet, so you don’t need separate goggles. A visor helmet offers a lot of convenience, as it is always within reach when wearing the helmet. Additionally, helmets with a visor are perfect for winter sports enthusiasts who wear glasses. Many visors fit over glasses, making them ideal for those with prescription eyewear. However, there are some disadvantages to visor helmets. A visor generally doesn’t fit as snugly to your face as goggles, leading to more exposure to cold air and allowing powder snow to enter your glasses when skiing off-piste.
As true powder lovers, we at Snowcountry prefer helmets with a separate goggle. For winter sports enthusiasts with prescription glasses, we recommend looking at OTG goggles. OTG goggles are specially designed to fit over glasses.
Multi-Certification
The helmets in the Snowcountry webshop always meet the European safety standards for skiing and snowboarding. Additionally, we offer various helmets with multi-certification. This means the helmet is not only suitable for skiing and snowboarding but also for activities like climbing or cycling. Below is an overview of helmets in our assortment with multi-certification.
Snow Sports | Climbing | Cycling | |
Sweet Protection Ascender MIPS | x | x | |
POC Calyx | x | x | x |
Scott Couloir Tour | x | x | |
Scott Couloir Mountain | x | x | |
Atomic Backland CTD | x | x | x |
Smith Summit MIPS | x | x | |
Salomon MTN Lab | x | x | |
Salomon MTN Patrol | x | x | |
Oakley MOD BC | x | x | |
Mammut Haut Helmet | x | x | x |
K2 Route | x | x |
Features of Ski or Snowboard Helmets
Finally, there are several features to consider when purchasing a helmet, such as weight, ventilation, and closure systems.
Weight
If you want the lightest option, look for an in-mold helmet. However, as mentioned earlier, an in-mold helmet offers less protection against heavy objects. If you’re touring in challenging conditions, consider a hybrid helmet. Although heavier, it provides better protection against branches and rocks.
Ventilation
Some helmets offer more ventilation than others. If you tend to overheat, it’s helpful to choose a helmet with plenty of ventilation options. Generally, in-mold and hybrid helmets have better ventilation. However, if you’re a freerider who ventures into rough terrain with associated risks, consider a hardshell helmet despite its limited ventilation options.
Closure Systems
Many helmets come with a simple buckle closure as a chin strap. The downside is that it’s not easy to fasten or unfasten with gloves on. For this reason, there are helmets with a magnetic buckle (Fidlock). Thanks to the magnet, you can easily open and close the buckle with one hand while wearing gloves.
Tips for Fitting Your Helmet
- Always try your helmet on with your goggles.
- Unfasten the chin strap and shake your head. If the helmet stays securely on your head, it’s a good fit.
Snowcountry Tips for Choosing the Right Size
Unsure between two sizes? Based on our experience, we recommend choosing the larger size.
