Photo by POC Sports
Given that falls are a part of learning how to ski or snowboard, a helmet is one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll own. Research conducted by the Micheli Center, an injury-prevention clinic, suggests that head injuries account for more than 22 percent of ski and snowboard accidents in young athletes, and traumatic brain injuries for more than 80 percent of fatalities. According to a 2016 study by the Journal of Pediatric Surgery, those “who do not wear a helmet while skiing or snowboarding sustain a significantly greater burden of injury and more severe head injuries.”
As concussion awareness has spread, helmet technology has evolved to mitigate rotational impacts—the most common, and dangerous, kinds experienced on the mountain.
“The properties of the brain make it sensitive to rotation,” explains Madelen Fahlstedt, a biomechanical specialist with the Swedish company MIPS, whose MIPS technology (which stands for multidirectional impact protection system) is widely used in cycling and snow sports helmet designs. And, she adds, research shows there’s a “higher risk of brain injury with oblique impact.”
Today, almost every ski helmet brand offers rotational impact protection technology, whether it was developed in-house or licensed from a third party like MIPS, which entered the market around 20 years ago. The technology involves a low-friction layer between the liner and the shell that slides freely to absorb rotational forces caused by an angled impact to the head.
Anon uses an advanced safety technology called WaveCel, a lattice-like material that acts like a network of shock absorbers. The material distributes the impact of a crash through the material and away from the head, reducing linear and rotational forces. Koroyd technology works similarly, with a tubular core that crumples on impact. Smith’s Prospect Junior Helmet combines Koroyd with a dual-stage liner so the helmet can grow with the skier.
“Children’s brains are still developing—they need all the protection offered by multi-impact liners, deflector panels, shells to avoid penetration, and rotational protection systems,” explains Adam Pfeiffer, a product manager at POC. POC’s youth line, dubbed POCito, also uses proactive protection. “Highly visible fluorescent colors and reflective details make it easier for others to see young ones, giving them more time to react,” says Pfeiffer.
Just as important as the technology, a helmet needs to fit properly. “Everyone has a unique head shape and fit factors,” explains Fahlstedt. “It’s important to consider everything from sizing to retention systems and straps. A poor fit isn’t just uncomfortable—it can compromise safety.”
Helmets aren’t made to last forever. Even a well cared for helmet deteriorates over time, and while it may appear in good condition, the protection it provides may no longer be optimal. Smith recommends that adults replace their helmet every five years. Kids, on the other hand, because they’re still growing—and are often harder on their equipment—should replace their helmet every other season, or when the lid shows signs of deterioration (cracking, ungluing, deformation, discoloration). If the helmet receives a severe blow, whether from a crash or after it’s dropped from the deck to the driveway, it should be replaced. Helmets are designed to absorb shock by partial destruction of the shell and liner. Even a mild blow can compromise its ability to do its job—protecting your child’s noggin!
Fit tips from the Smith product team:
- Measure the circumference of your child’s head in centimeters by wrapping a flexible tape measure or a string around the widest spot, about one inch above the eyebrows. Use this to determine the size range of the helmet that will fit your child best.
- Choose a helmet in the size range determined by the measurement above. Make sure the front edge sits just above the eyebrows, and the rear is nestled onto the back of the head.
- Fasten the buckle and tighten the chin strap by pulling the loose end. It should be snug, and your child should be able to open their mouth fully. If the helmet you chose has a dial system, tighten it accordingly for just the right fit.