Bicycle Helmets for younger kids

[RunnerKim]

I'm wondering if there's some better options out there for bicycle helmets so thought I'd ask here.

Putting helmets on is a big chore - mostly it has to do with the buckles. My DS's supposedly has a "pinchguard" buckle (Bell) but I've pinched him on several occaisons. It's tough to buckle (let alone worrying about making sure i'm not pinching skin). Needless to say he's not exactly thrilled about putting his helmet on.

My daughter can now do her own but i've notice that the chin strap has gotten loose and she's just like all the other kids that aren't wearing their helmets properly (i.e., not down on their forehead). It's too hard to buckle a snug buckle!

I was just chatting with another parent who was lamenting about the exact same problem of pinching the under-side of the chin or having the helmet be too loose.

This really seems like a design issue to me and so I'm sure there must be company that has solved this. Buckle then tighten. Anyone know of one?

Kim

[Gumbeaux]

Have you looked at helmets in bicycle stores or just department stores?

[RunnerKim]

I have looked quickly at REI and they only had Bell brand for the toddler age. I didn't talk with anyone though and checking at a bike-only store is a good idea too.

Thanks,
Kim

[Couperine]

I keep peeking at this thread - I wish I had more to contribute. Ethan is just a little over 2 now, and he's been wearing the Bell toddler helmet all spring. It works best when I put my helmet on first for the peer pressure thing, and then I put his on by getting down at his level, popping it on his head, checking to make sure his ears aren't bent or anything else pinched, and then buckling it. After I buckle it, I ask him if it's ok or not, and adjust it some if he asks, and then we get going. He only complains if something is bent or uncomfortable, and giving him that little bit of input in an otherwise non-negotiable habit seems to work for him.

I've never looked for a different brand of helmet, but I just wanted to chime in my .01 cents. My problem is finding a helmet big enough for my husband's head, but that's a whole different issue. :)

[Robyn1007]

I'd definitely go talk to someone at a bike shop, even more than REI. I like REI for a lot of things but cycling equipment is not one of them. I don't know what's available for young children so I can't give specifics there.

[RunnerKim]

In my internet searching, I just read something that said only 4% of kids wear their helmets properly. :eek: I know I see a lot of kids with their helmets too far back (including my own recently) but only 4%!

[paula]

Kim,

We bought Trek helmets for the kids about a year ago at a bicycle shop. They were pricey (about $40/each, I think). I don't think they have any mechanism to prevent pinching, and I have occassionally pinched Alex's neck when he is not standing as still as I would like. However, as long as he is looking upward when clicking the straps, it doesn't tend to be a problem. I can't remember ever pinching Rachel... Also, they have been able to put on their own helmet since we bought them, so it is rare that I am asked to assist.

I haven't used Bell with the kids, so I can't compare the differences in fit - however, the Trek usually stay in place. They have a well defined and highly adjustable cage at the base in the back which allows a lot of customization. When I buy a new helmet, I do so at a bike shop where I can try on a couple of different models to compare the fits, and I was dismayed when the bike shop only carried one brand of helmets in a single "children's" size. However, we were able to adjust the Trek's to a point that I felt both kids were getting a good fit (and there haven't been any complaints). We do have a family rule that the helmet must touch your eyebrows, and I have to occassionally remind Alex and Rachel to pull the helmet down in front, but this hasn't really been an issue.


HTH,

Paula