Snow Ski Equipment - How to Choose a Snow Helmet
The good news is that thanks to sophisticated ski and binding design, ski injuries have declined in the past decade. The bad news is that 5 to 10 percent of the ski injuries that do occur are head injuries. After the famous Sonny Bono head injury, ski helmet sales experienced a rapid increase. In general, most sever head injuries occur as a result of unplanned encounters with trees, lift poles and other skiers or snowboarders. While skiing safely and in control is the best defense against head or any other type of injury, wearing a ski helmet can provide some extra protection.
Helmet size is determined by the amount of centimeters around your head. To find your helmet size, simply take a tape measure and measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows. It is important to realize that not all helmets fit the same. Head shape should be a factor that you will take into consideration when comparing specific ski helmet brands. For this reason, it is important to try on a number of different helmets before you make your final decision.
When you try on a ski helmet, begin by aligning the front rim of the helmet above your eyebrows. Then, hold on to the straps on both sides and proceed to roll the helmet over the back of your head. Make sure that the helmet pads fit flush against your cheeks and forehead. Also, be sure that the back of your helmet is not touching the nape of your neck.
Now you are ready to take the roll test. Once the chin strap is, fastened your helmet should feel snug and comfortable. Make an attempt to roll your helmet off your head. If the skin on your forehead moves as you do this, you have a good ski helmet fit. There is one other factor that should be considered when choosing a ski helmet. The helmet should be compatible with your ski goggles. In other words, there should be no space between the rim of your helmet and the top of your ski goggles. Most helmets come with an attachment for your goggles. This is a good idea. One last thought: If you ski in relatively warm areas, or if you have a tendency to perspire profusely, make sure to choose a helmet that provides good ventilation.
Avoiding the Horror of Helmet Hair
Although vanity should never, under any circumstances, prevent you from wearing a ski helmet, female skiers who are concerned about looking their best during après ski are often concerned about that annoying phenomenon known as “helmet hair.” Keep in mind that having helmet hair is actually a mark of distinction. It shows that you are a serious skier. However, if you are really concerned about your hair’s appearance, here are some quick fixes.
Choose the Right Type of Helmet: Although a ventilated helmet will not prevent helmet hair, your hair will be less sweaty and smelly when the helmet is removed.
Purchase a Helmet Skull Cap: A helmet skull cap is a thin piece of material that is designed to fit securely underneath your helmet. Although helmet skull caps do not prevent helmet hair, they do keep your hair from looking a bit less messy when your helmet is removed.
Consider a Helmet-Friendly Hair Style: If your life style involves skiing or snowboarding in the winter and cycling in the spring, summer or fall, you might want to think about a hairstyle that is compatible with helmet use. In general, shorter hairstyles will work best. With helmets However, a pony tail or braids work quite well for longer hair.
Hats, Head Bands and Bandanas: A cool-looking hat, head band or bandana is a perfect cover up for helmet hair.
Dry Shampoos, Talcum Powder, Sprays and other Quick Fixes: There are a variety of dry shampoos on the market that can revitalize your hair after a day on the slopes. However, a small container of baby powder costs a whole lot less and serves the same purpose. Creating home made dry shampoo is even more economical. Simply combine half a cup of corn meal with half a cup of almond meal.
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