How Long Do Bicycle Helmets Last? Do They Expire?

Bike helmets are one of the key pieces of equipment that you’ll need if you plan on riding a bicycle. However, there isn’t a specific expiration date for bike helmets. Instead, you should replace your helmet every three to five years, depending on its level of performance and frequency of usage.

A bike helmet is made up of several layers. These include the outer shell, liner, padding, inner lining, and foam. Each layer serves a different function.

1. The outer shell protects your head from impact, while the padding cushions your head from hard impacts.
2. The foam inside helps keep your head cool during hot weather conditions.
3. The inner lining prevents dirt and debris from getting inside your helmet.

These layers serve different functions. The outer shell protects the wearer’s head from impact. Padding cushions the wearer’s head from hard impacts. Foam insulates the wearer’s head from heat. Inner liners prevent dirt and debris from entering the helmet.

When Should You Buy A New Helmet?

You should buy a new helmet every year if you ride your bike frequently. Why? Because your old helmet may not be able to provide adequate protection against injuries in case of an accident, especially if you ride your bike in bad weather conditions.

Your old motorcycle helmet may become worn out after years of regular use. It might lose its ability to protect you from collisions and crashes. Therefore, bike helmet replacement is recommended annually.

A new helmet will cost less than buying a new pair of shoes. However, it is still worth investing in a quality helmet. Investing in a high-quality helmet will save you money in the long run.

You Dropped It On A Concrete Floor

A bike helmet is meant to protect your head from injury during a fall. However, there are times when you might accidentally drop your helmet onto a concrete floor. Even though you think nothing happened, you still need to replace your helmet.

Your helmet can weaken if you dropped it on a hard surface, especially if you hit your head against the ground. Cracks and damage can occur inside the helmet, making it less effective in protecting your head.

Even if you don’t see any cracks or damage on the outside of your helmet, you should still consider replacing it. The helmet foam layer can be cracked underneath the protective thin shell. This means that you could end up getting injured without knowing it.

Ask the helmet manufacturer for a replacement at a minimum fee. Don’t risk your safety by using a broken helmet.

After A Crash

A bike helmet is only good for one ride. Once it’s damaged, it needs to be replaced.

Even though it may look fine, after a crash, the foam liner of your helmet can become weakened. As a result, it won’t provide the optimal protection like an uncrashed helmet, you need in the future.

You should replace your helmet immediately after any kind of collision. It doesn’t matter how minor or heavy the impact was. You can still end up with a cracked helmet.

Make sure you keep track of your helmet’s condition. If it starts showing signs of damage, replace it right away. Don’t wait until it breaks down completely.

If It Doesn’t Fulfil The Safety Standards

There are several factors that determine whether a helmet meets the standards set by your country. These include its shape, the material used, and the number of layers. Some countries require helmets to be made out of certain materials, such as polycarbonate plastic. Other countries only require helmets to be made of foam.

You should look for a reliable helmet conforming to the safety standards set by your government. An approval sticker indicates that the helmet passed a stringent quality screening process.

Your helmet should fit snugly against your head without slipping off. If it does not, you may experience discomfort and headaches. Also, if the strap is loose, it can cause neck pain.

Make sure that your helmet fits properly before riding. If it doesn’t, you risk injuring yourself.

Old Helmet

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to buy a new helmet. One factor is the bike helmet age. Old helmets tend to show signs of wear and tear sooner than newer models. Another factor is the helmet style.

Some styles are easier to keep helmets clean and maintain than others. And finally, there are certain types of injuries that require immediate medical attention.

So, when should you buy a new helmet? It depends on the individual needs of your cycling activities. If you plan to bike frequently, then it might be worth buying a new helmet every year or two to keep your head safe.

On the other hand, if you only ride occasionally, then you probably won’t notice any significant differences between old and new helmets. So, it’s up to you to decide when it’s time to buy a new helmet!

Tips To Choose The Right Helmet

Safety

You should always look for a quality bike helmet that meets certain safety standards. Most road helmets come with a sticker indicating whether they meet those standards. However, if you don’t see a sticker, you can still find out by checking online reviews.

Some helmet models include a multi-directional head protection system. This means that it can reduce the rotary force and energy directed to your head in case of a fall or crash. As a result, your head will receive less damage.

Other brands like Bell offer progressive layering for better protection against intense impacts. These helmets have two layers of EPS foam in differing densities to tackle different levels of impact and energy during a fall or accident. You can see models with a tool-free removable chin bar design that converts from a helmet into a face guard.

Ventilation systems on helmets can help reduce the contact of your helmet with your head. Ventilation systems can also help cool down your head during hot weather conditions.

Helmets with bright color designs can improve your visibility while riding. It reduces the chances that you’ll be struck by another vehicle.

A well-ventilated helmet can keep your head cooler during warm weather conditions. It helps maintain your comfort level while riding.

Material

Bicycle helmet shells come in two main types: hardshell and softshell. Hardshells are typically made of ABS plastic, whereas softshells are made of EPS plastic. Both materials provide adequate protection against impact in accidents.

However, if you ride frequently, you may want to consider getting a bike helmet with additional safety features. These include SPIN or internal shear pads, which help protect your head from impact and rotational energy.

You’ll find that most helmets today are equipped with EPS plastic liners. This material is lightweight and provides excellent comfort. You won’t feel any pressure points or discomfort after wearing the helmet for long periods of time.

Some helmets have honeycomb liners that can absorb impact forces. Honeycomb liners are great for absorbing shock and rotational energy. However, they are not recommended for children under 12 years old due to the risk of suffocation.

Choose a high-quality bicycle helmet that offers the right level of protection for your needs. Choose a comfortable helmet that fits well. Also, look for a helmet that comes with a warranty. This ensures that you receive proper service and support if there are problems down the road.”

Size

A standard bike helmet should be big enough to protect your head without feeling uncomfortable. However, there isn’t really any industry standard sizing for helmets. Some manufacturers recommend getting a larger helmet if you have a large head, while others suggest getting a smaller one if you have a small head.

Make sure to get the right-sized helmet to be comfortable while riding. The size can range from 51cm to 63cm, depending on the measurement of your head. You can find a helmet that fits your head perfectly by checking online reviews and reading product descriptions.

You can also opt for a one size fits all helmet with an adjustable fit system. These types of helmets tend to be less expensive and easier to adjust.

Last Updated on March 15, 2023 by Sammy