Going along with the other biking accessories I have been talking about the past few posts, I would like to talk for a bit about helmets. Helmets are one of the most often overlooked pieces of equipment for many cyclists. Working with people almost daily and selling them bikes and biking accessories, it almost comes as an afterthought for many them. "Oh, I don't need to get a helmet today" or "I've got an old one that still kind of fits." These types of excuses to not upgrade or just get one in general drive me crazy.
First of all, helmet technology has come a long way in many forms. Whether it be how light they are, how protective they are, how aerodynamic they are, or how breathable they are. There are so many factors that make the upgrade in your helmet a worthwhile investment.
One of the best things in my opinion about splurging a bit on a nice helmet is to feel like you're not even wearing one. Helmets have become so lightweight while still retaining their protective qualities, it almost seems like there is nothing on your head at all. And to compare a $60 helemt to a $160 helmet, it's nearly night and day when it comes to weight. However, some customers like to try and tell me they feel no difference between the two, hand me both helmets, and have to honestly keep myself from laughing at the weight difference and their lack of noticing the weight difference.
I know a helmet on your head isn't exactly the same type of a contact point as your pedals, shoes and saddle, but it is a contact point nonetheless. Having something comfortable is vital. It can mean the difference between enjoying your ride and having a splitting headache when you're done. I am in the process of upgrading myself from my Specialized to either a Bontrager Oracle, Giro Aeon or Atmos. All of which will be lighter, more breathable and much more comfortable than my Specialized.
Another key feature of spending a bit more on a helmet is it's venting options. Now, more vents doesn't necessarily mean better. It comes down to location, induction and exhaust. Where does the air flow in, collect and exhaust in the helmet? If the air doesn't have a good place to enter, there's no way for the heat from your head to get exhausted and replaced by fresh, cooler air. Also, if the exhaust area of the helmet isn't properly positioned, air may just collect inside the helmet and leave you sweating in a humid mess.
Last but not least, colors. Yea, not a huge deal, but it is at the same time. Whether you plan to match to your gear or your bike is up to you. But having a handful of options is key for getting a helmet as well. First off, you don't want the same colors as everyone else. But also, you want to look like you at least tried to match something with your neon green kit. Right?
-Dave
Comments