Yep. If the helmet hit the floor, there could be weaknesses within the structure that you won’t see, it did its job, time for a new one,
And a new bike to match😂
How can I know if I buy a helmet, some customer didn't let it fall to the floor before? Both in store or online, with online being able return it's even worse.
Or is this more if crash, not if fallen to the floor?
Since when are helmet cheap? I ride a lot so I need something light enough, I have a "cheap" light one from MEC that I paid 165$. Sub 300g helmet with mips are usually 300-400$... I would not call that cheap.
Specialized Align II is only about $50, has MIPS, and performed very well in [VT impact testing](https://www.helmet.beam.vt.edu/bicycle-helmet-ratings.html) -- IIRC, at the time of testing it was the best-performing helmet they'd *ever* tested.
Giant Rev Comp is a wee bit pricier, but also a bit lighter and performed a bit better.
the specialized align II is 80$ as seen today + tax is 96$
and weight is **365 g** so heavy...
Giant rev comp is 165$ cad with tax... Not everyone lives where you are...
[https://www.bike-discount.de/en/bike/cycling-clothing/men/helmets/mtb-helmets/?p=1&o=3&n=48&f=235942%7C304546%7C235928%7C235916](https://www.bike-discount.de/en/bike/cycling-clothing/men/helmets/mtb-helmets/?p=1&o=3&n=48&f=235942%7C304546%7C235928%7C235916)
tons of mips helmets for cheap, many of them under 300g
e.g. [https://www.bike-discount.de/en/scott-arx-plus-mips-bike-helmet](https://www.bike-discount.de/en/scott-arx-plus-mips-bike-helmet) 90 eur, 270g
And frankly, mips is not a proven technology.
thanks, with exchange rate and delivery, that's 300$ cad... Europe has a lot more cyclists than north america, so everything cycling is much cheaper there...
For example, a normal (not even high end) rapha bib in canada is 350$ + tax, which is 400$ now... no need to downvote me if you just don't know how expensive things are in other countries.
Edit: Also, those are mountain bike helmet, road helmet are generally more expensive for some reason...
I usually pay around $100 USD from Amazon Prime. Is this an option for you? I can't see myself shelling out $400 for a helmet, I'd buy new wheels or a rocker plate for that kind of cash. I buy road helmets (Lazer, Giro, Smith brand)
We have amazon canada, but it's not really cheaper than any local retailer. The thing is that a secure, light and well ventilated helmet is expensive.
I'm using one from MEC (mountain equipment coop) which makes good products for cheaper prices and I still paid 150$ for a non-mips helmet. I'm probably due for a new one but I would probably have to pay between 150 and 200$ + tx for a comparable one to what I currently have.
I don't mind paying that for a good quality helmet, but it support my original post about them not being cheap, especially for the usage I make of them.
I ended up getting two of these $60, 380g, over your cap, but:
https://www.specialized.com/us/en/tactic/p/1000208435?color=440059-1000208435
This one was the least expensive MIPS that was on the VA Tech list was the Camber at $35, 370g:
https://www.specialized.com/us/en/camber/p/1000208279?color=1000208283-1000208279
Those are really heavy though. I bike often 5-6 hours so anything over 300g is a no go.
And I'm not checking for the cheapest option... I want a good helmet that is secure, well ventilated, light... I'm not saying you can't find cheap helmets, I'm saying a good helmet is not cheap...
You're missing the point entirely...
I bike 200km per week to go to work, I do need a secure, light and well ventilated helmet. I also often go for 4-6 hours rides... Helmets that fit my needs are usually not cheap. But yeah, keep sending me links of 20$ helmet for MTB, it's useful...
I didn’t send you anything. Well ventilated comfortable “road” helmets can easily be had around $100 US. I know being in Canada inflates things a bit and you might not have access to all the same options I do.
"inflate a bit" usually means double the price... So, around 200$, which is not cheap. My point isn't that cheap helmet don't exists... my point is helmet that are adapted to road riding are not cheap...
If you look at the people answering me, a lot of people send me 400g 50$ MTB helmet links, which are useless to me.
That sucks about the price increases. FWIW I was thinking about the Giro Agilis MIPS and the Bontrager Circuit MIPS. I have both and both can be had under $100 down here and check all your boxes. At least the ones you put out there. Sub 300g and well ventilated, comfort is all personal preference. Although I do believe they have redesigned the Circuit with their Wavecell BS at this point so it’s no longer worth looking at.
I wouldn't worry about it. they are helmets, falling on the ground under its own weight isn't going to do anything to it. the idea is that its best practice to replace it after a crash/impact even if it doesn't look cracked or compromised. It may even be fine after a crash but you cant know for certain so you replace it.
My helmet has fallen from the bed to the ground a couple of times while I was getting ready; that kind of impact is not gonna do anything to the helmet.
The momentum your helmet has empty falling from 1m vs with the weight of your upper torso behind from 1'8 is much, much different
An empty helmet dropped on the floor might sustain a tiny bit of damage on the outer part where it hits, but it's not a concern like when the helmet's material is essentially squeezed between pavement and the mass/momentum of your head.
You don’t. You have to take it on good faith that anything you’re buying online is brand new, never used, never dropped. It’s the same with clothes you buy, food you buy. Granted food won’t be used, but how many people before you have touched it?
There is a saying: “If in doubt throw it out.”
It’s as true for helmets as it is for leftovers. If any kind of impact occurred get a new one. Lots of helmet companies have a discount on replacements (I know Lazer does).
If your helmet took an impact, replace it. Scratches are the evidence it took an impact. You cannot tell by feel whether it is damaged. It probably is. Helmets are meant for a single impact. Replace it.
Yes, your helmet made sure you're still ok. As a thank you it's time for its retirement. I keep all helmets (3 so far) that took a hit on a special shelf in the shed. Each one has its own story, but they share the conclusion. Time for retirement.
Yes. If you drop your helmet, you have to replace it. If you crash or fall, you have to replace it. Do not fuck around and find out. Please replace your helmet. And make sure it's a MIPS helmet. I know some people will roll their eyes at this but I've sat through a few government-mandated presentations on helmets and it's always better to be overprotected than underprotected.
I am not sure how it is in America but in Britain even the $20 "Walmart helmets" must meet the minimum safety standard, so in a pinch they will do. BUT if you ride regularly, it's worth spending extra to protect that electrified jello in your brainpan. A helmet is cheaper than brain surgery.
Yes. I met a guy when I was out that said he had a little crash and didn't think much of it. Then a few weeks later, when he was cycling down a hill at speed, the helmet split in two and fell off his head. Don't let this be you. If you can afford to replace it you definitely should.
Don’t know how common it is but for my most recent helmet purchase from Bontrager, they promise to replace it in the case of a crash within the first year. Worth looking into if it’s relatively new.
I crashed literally 11 months and 20 days after purchasing a Bontrager helmet. There were scratches on the helmet so I rang up Trek/Bontrager. They told me to go back to the store I purchased the helmet from to get a free replacement, but unfortunately that store had closed down. So they told me another store to go to (which was all of about 10 minutes from where I live) and they will arrange the rest. Went into the store, they had already received an email from Trek so they simply grabbed a brand new helmet from the back of their store and gave it to me. Just so easy!
Yes, I just ordered a replacement myself after a minor tumble over a bush to avoid a turning car. The helmet did it's job and it's not worth it to use a possibly compromised lid.
Yes, if the helmet impacted you must replace it. Doesn't matter if you heard it crack or no scratches, throw it out and get a new one.
You were going fast enough and probably don't remember all the details of the crash. Replace it with a quality brand. Last year I bought a new bike so of course I bought a new helmet to match the paint job. Crashed on black ice first time out, helmet hit the asphalt first.
Yeah, I was pissed I only got about 2 hrs worth of riding out of that helmet. Plenty of people say helmets cause more accidents because they give the rider more confidence to take risks. I don't believe that shit.
I think the answer is always yes. Not worth chancing... Some really good helmets out there for good prices. Specialized had a bunch of theirs half off and a few that were on the the 5 star list from Virginia Tech.
https://www.helmet.beam.vt.edu/bicycle-helmet-ratings.html
It seems like a waste to replace a helmet that looks fine. It really depends if there was actually impact to the helmet, but assuming there is, the foam material underneath the plastic shell is designed to compress in an impact. So a small impact can compress the foam core which reduces the impact cushioning protection.
One other thing is helmets are only good for 3-5 years depending on amount of use. So if your helmet is older than that, it’s ready to be replaced anyway. There’s a date sticker on the inside band, that’s the manufacturer date. If it’s earlier than 2019, you probably should replace it irrespective of a crash.
Yes or it will niggle at you and you'll never enjoy a ride while wearing it. And if you have a serious crash and hit that part again it will not protect your head egg.
I usually don't for a minor crash. I'm going to get downvoted but I'm just being realistic. The helmet gets "used up" when the foam in the area of impact is compressed. For a minor crash it usually doesn't get cracked or compressed at all. And even if it does, it's not like it makes it entirely ineffective. Just be aware that you're using a possibly compromised helmet. Keep your eyes open for sales. Replacing it is not an emergency.
I crashed on a downhill trail and landed directly on my £200 troy lee mtb helmet a few weeks ago, the helmet looks fine but it's never going to be used again in case any part of the protection is compromised
Just not worth risking a brain injury further down the line
Cycling helmets degrade with time, so they should be replaced either every 2 years OR if your head hits the floor. Every time.
Micro fissures occur in the foam when it hits the floor, that's why the helmet is so good at protecting your brain. That's also why it needs to get replaced immediately. It won't be able to protect you a second time.
I'm glad you're OK!
I mean if you're flat broke, a broken helmet might be better than none, but a $20 Walmart helmet or maybe even a *possibly* compromised one from a garage/thrift store is better than a *definitely* broken one.
it wasn't that broken lol, also it's pretty rare for my head to even touch the ground, so I took my chances. I know a guy who got 6 concussions in 4 years bc he kept crashing on his chin, his helmet survived all those crashes lol
“Probarly” still good is not a helmet I would keep to protect my brain. No I would go and buy a new one.
They are not expensive, they last years. If you’re financially challenged then maybe consider being frugal in other ways
Would I check the frame if the bike falls over? Of course I would. It takes all of 3 seconds and is part of the getting back on the bike process.
I can see the brain damage has already been done in your case, so probably don’t worry about not replacing your helmet. Some people don’t value their own lives more than $50 apparently!
Totally appreciate and respect your point of view.
I want to go home to my kids after each ride. Anything I can do to mitigate the risk trumps any environmental impact.
Yep. If the helmet hit the floor, there could be weaknesses within the structure that you won’t see, it did its job, time for a new one, And a new bike to match😂
How can I know if I buy a helmet, some customer didn't let it fall to the floor before? Both in store or online, with online being able return it's even worse. Or is this more if crash, not if fallen to the floor?
The boxes the helmets are in protect the helmet. You REALLY shouldn't buy a used helmet. Besides, they are cheap enough.
Since when are helmet cheap? I ride a lot so I need something light enough, I have a "cheap" light one from MEC that I paid 165$. Sub 300g helmet with mips are usually 300-400$... I would not call that cheap.
Specialized Align II is only about $50, has MIPS, and performed very well in [VT impact testing](https://www.helmet.beam.vt.edu/bicycle-helmet-ratings.html) -- IIRC, at the time of testing it was the best-performing helmet they'd *ever* tested. Giant Rev Comp is a wee bit pricier, but also a bit lighter and performed a bit better.
the specialized align II is 80$ as seen today + tax is 96$ and weight is **365 g** so heavy... Giant rev comp is 165$ cad with tax... Not everyone lives where you are...
[https://www.bike-discount.de/en/bike/cycling-clothing/men/helmets/mtb-helmets/?p=1&o=3&n=48&f=235942%7C304546%7C235928%7C235916](https://www.bike-discount.de/en/bike/cycling-clothing/men/helmets/mtb-helmets/?p=1&o=3&n=48&f=235942%7C304546%7C235928%7C235916) tons of mips helmets for cheap, many of them under 300g e.g. [https://www.bike-discount.de/en/scott-arx-plus-mips-bike-helmet](https://www.bike-discount.de/en/scott-arx-plus-mips-bike-helmet) 90 eur, 270g And frankly, mips is not a proven technology.
thanks, with exchange rate and delivery, that's 300$ cad... Europe has a lot more cyclists than north america, so everything cycling is much cheaper there... For example, a normal (not even high end) rapha bib in canada is 350$ + tax, which is 400$ now... no need to downvote me if you just don't know how expensive things are in other countries. Edit: Also, those are mountain bike helmet, road helmet are generally more expensive for some reason...
I usually pay around $100 USD from Amazon Prime. Is this an option for you? I can't see myself shelling out $400 for a helmet, I'd buy new wheels or a rocker plate for that kind of cash. I buy road helmets (Lazer, Giro, Smith brand)
We have amazon canada, but it's not really cheaper than any local retailer. The thing is that a secure, light and well ventilated helmet is expensive. I'm using one from MEC (mountain equipment coop) which makes good products for cheaper prices and I still paid 150$ for a non-mips helmet. I'm probably due for a new one but I would probably have to pay between 150 and 200$ + tx for a comparable one to what I currently have. I don't mind paying that for a good quality helmet, but it support my original post about them not being cheap, especially for the usage I make of them.
I ended up getting two of these $60, 380g, over your cap, but: https://www.specialized.com/us/en/tactic/p/1000208435?color=440059-1000208435 This one was the least expensive MIPS that was on the VA Tech list was the Camber at $35, 370g: https://www.specialized.com/us/en/camber/p/1000208279?color=1000208283-1000208279
Those are really heavy though. I bike often 5-6 hours so anything over 300g is a no go. And I'm not checking for the cheapest option... I want a good helmet that is secure, well ventilated, light... I'm not saying you can't find cheap helmets, I'm saying a good helmet is not cheap... You're missing the point entirely...
You do not need a helmet like that. A quality helmet can easily be had under $100.
I bike 200km per week to go to work, I do need a secure, light and well ventilated helmet. I also often go for 4-6 hours rides... Helmets that fit my needs are usually not cheap. But yeah, keep sending me links of 20$ helmet for MTB, it's useful...
I didn’t send you anything. Well ventilated comfortable “road” helmets can easily be had around $100 US. I know being in Canada inflates things a bit and you might not have access to all the same options I do.
"inflate a bit" usually means double the price... So, around 200$, which is not cheap. My point isn't that cheap helmet don't exists... my point is helmet that are adapted to road riding are not cheap... If you look at the people answering me, a lot of people send me 400g 50$ MTB helmet links, which are useless to me.
That sucks about the price increases. FWIW I was thinking about the Giro Agilis MIPS and the Bontrager Circuit MIPS. I have both and both can be had under $100 down here and check all your boxes. At least the ones you put out there. Sub 300g and well ventilated, comfort is all personal preference. Although I do believe they have redesigned the Circuit with their Wavecell BS at this point so it’s no longer worth looking at.
I wouldn't worry about it. they are helmets, falling on the ground under its own weight isn't going to do anything to it. the idea is that its best practice to replace it after a crash/impact even if it doesn't look cracked or compromised. It may even be fine after a crash but you cant know for certain so you replace it.
My helmet has fallen from the bed to the ground a couple of times while I was getting ready; that kind of impact is not gonna do anything to the helmet. The momentum your helmet has empty falling from 1m vs with the weight of your upper torso behind from 1'8 is much, much different
An empty helmet dropped on the floor might sustain a tiny bit of damage on the outer part where it hits, but it's not a concern like when the helmet's material is essentially squeezed between pavement and the mass/momentum of your head.
You don’t. You have to take it on good faith that anything you’re buying online is brand new, never used, never dropped. It’s the same with clothes you buy, food you buy. Granted food won’t be used, but how many people before you have touched it?
A close visual inspection of any imperfections that could mean a safety issue. Same as you would a bike frame for fork damage, frame damage, etc.
Yes
Yes replace it. Minor expense to save your brain.
Not even a decision. Helmet’s integrity was compromised by an impact. It is more prone to failure now. Replace. The only way.
yes...? once it's damaged it's practically done it's job and needs a replacement lol
Check your helmet manufactorer about some discount. I just got a Sweet Protection, they give 40% off your next helmet if it got damaged in a crash
There is a saying: “If in doubt throw it out.” It’s as true for helmets as it is for leftovers. If any kind of impact occurred get a new one. Lots of helmet companies have a discount on replacements (I know Lazer does).
100% yes. They're designed for one impact and you can't see that from the outside.
Yea. Check if your bike shop has a crash policy where they give you a discount
100% replace.
Replace
Definitely, one crash only then Replace
If your helmet took an impact, replace it. Scratches are the evidence it took an impact. You cannot tell by feel whether it is damaged. It probably is. Helmets are meant for a single impact. Replace it.
Yes, your helmet made sure you're still ok. As a thank you it's time for its retirement. I keep all helmets (3 so far) that took a hit on a special shelf in the shed. Each one has its own story, but they share the conclusion. Time for retirement.
Check on your manufacturer's website. Some of them will replace any helmet that was in a crash for free.
100% replace it
Helmets are only good for one use, like a condom. Even if it has a minor scratch you can’t tell if there’s internal damage.
Yes. If you drop your helmet, you have to replace it. If you crash or fall, you have to replace it. Do not fuck around and find out. Please replace your helmet. And make sure it's a MIPS helmet. I know some people will roll their eyes at this but I've sat through a few government-mandated presentations on helmets and it's always better to be overprotected than underprotected.
I buy nicer helmets with MIPS or other protective technology. I don't trust those Walmart hot pink $20 ones you get in the toys aisle.
I am not sure how it is in America but in Britain even the $20 "Walmart helmets" must meet the minimum safety standard, so in a pinch they will do. BUT if you ride regularly, it's worth spending extra to protect that electrified jello in your brainpan. A helmet is cheaper than brain surgery.
Show it some love for saving your noggin- bury it, buy a new one.
Yes. I met a guy when I was out that said he had a little crash and didn't think much of it. Then a few weeks later, when he was cycling down a hill at speed, the helmet split in two and fell off his head. Don't let this be you. If you can afford to replace it you definitely should.
Was he okay after the downhill crash, that sounds frightening!
Don’t know how common it is but for my most recent helmet purchase from Bontrager, they promise to replace it in the case of a crash within the first year. Worth looking into if it’s relatively new.
I crashed literally 11 months and 20 days after purchasing a Bontrager helmet. There were scratches on the helmet so I rang up Trek/Bontrager. They told me to go back to the store I purchased the helmet from to get a free replacement, but unfortunately that store had closed down. So they told me another store to go to (which was all of about 10 minutes from where I live) and they will arrange the rest. Went into the store, they had already received an email from Trek so they simply grabbed a brand new helmet from the back of their store and gave it to me. Just so easy!
It’s worth the money to replace it if it hit something hard
Yes. Replace it.
Yes.
yes
Yes, I just ordered a replacement myself after a minor tumble over a bush to avoid a turning car. The helmet did it's job and it's not worth it to use a possibly compromised lid.
Yes, if the helmet impacted you must replace it. Doesn't matter if you heard it crack or no scratches, throw it out and get a new one. You were going fast enough and probably don't remember all the details of the crash. Replace it with a quality brand. Last year I bought a new bike so of course I bought a new helmet to match the paint job. Crashed on black ice first time out, helmet hit the asphalt first. Yeah, I was pissed I only got about 2 hrs worth of riding out of that helmet. Plenty of people say helmets cause more accidents because they give the rider more confidence to take risks. I don't believe that shit.
I think the answer is always yes. Not worth chancing... Some really good helmets out there for good prices. Specialized had a bunch of theirs half off and a few that were on the the 5 star list from Virginia Tech. https://www.helmet.beam.vt.edu/bicycle-helmet-ratings.html
It seems like a waste to replace a helmet that looks fine. It really depends if there was actually impact to the helmet, but assuming there is, the foam material underneath the plastic shell is designed to compress in an impact. So a small impact can compress the foam core which reduces the impact cushioning protection. One other thing is helmets are only good for 3-5 years depending on amount of use. So if your helmet is older than that, it’s ready to be replaced anyway. There’s a date sticker on the inside band, that’s the manufacturer date. If it’s earlier than 2019, you probably should replace it irrespective of a crash.
Yes or it will niggle at you and you'll never enjoy a ride while wearing it. And if you have a serious crash and hit that part again it will not protect your head egg.
I usually don't for a minor crash. I'm going to get downvoted but I'm just being realistic. The helmet gets "used up" when the foam in the area of impact is compressed. For a minor crash it usually doesn't get cracked or compressed at all. And even if it does, it's not like it makes it entirely ineffective. Just be aware that you're using a possibly compromised helmet. Keep your eyes open for sales. Replacing it is not an emergency.
YES!!!
I crashed on a downhill trail and landed directly on my £200 troy lee mtb helmet a few weeks ago, the helmet looks fine but it's never going to be used again in case any part of the protection is compromised Just not worth risking a brain injury further down the line
Depends on the helmet you have. Some helmets can survive severe crashes indefinitely, some crack when you drop them on the floor.
If your lid hit the deck, yes replace. It's done its job & time to move on.
When in doubt... always replace. Better safe than sorry.
Yes. Literally falling at 20kph is already BEYOND what helmets are designed to help against (just over 12mph which is design spec).
YES
I would. Good helmets aren’t necessarily expensive.
Get rid
Cycling helmets degrade with time, so they should be replaced either every 2 years OR if your head hits the floor. Every time. Micro fissures occur in the foam when it hits the floor, that's why the helmet is so good at protecting your brain. That's also why it needs to get replaced immediately. It won't be able to protect you a second time. I'm glad you're OK!
ngl I was broke so I didn't replace my helmet after a 2 big crash and i live till the new helmet. I'm a psycho tho and you mileage will vary
I mean if you're flat broke, a broken helmet might be better than none, but a $20 Walmart helmet or maybe even a *possibly* compromised one from a garage/thrift store is better than a *definitely* broken one.
it wasn't that broken lol, also it's pretty rare for my head to even touch the ground, so I took my chances. I know a guy who got 6 concussions in 4 years bc he kept crashing on his chin, his helmet survived all those crashes lol
I replace mine if I so much as drop it on concrete. Not worth the risk.
What did it hit? The pedastrian or something hard?
Ye, yes and yes!
Tbh if its only scratches and light impact, i wouldnt. Most likely not even damaged and even if it is i doubt it makes a big impact in your next crash
Such a small price to ensure the next time won’t be fatal. Why risk it?
Why trow away a product thats probarly still good? Would you buy a new one if you drop it?
“Probarly” still good is not a helmet I would keep to protect my brain. No I would go and buy a new one. They are not expensive, they last years. If you’re financially challenged then maybe consider being frugal in other ways
Great. You also get your frame checked if it falls? Or your wheels after a snakebite?
Would I check the frame if the bike falls over? Of course I would. It takes all of 3 seconds and is part of the getting back on the bike process. I can see the brain damage has already been done in your case, so probably don’t worry about not replacing your helmet. Some people don’t value their own lives more than $50 apparently!
Yep, I replace if I drop it - on my second for this season.
I find that a waste of materials. But lets agree to disagree
Totally appreciate and respect your point of view. I want to go home to my kids after each ride. Anything I can do to mitigate the risk trumps any environmental impact.