Ski and snowboard helmet guide: fit, goggles and ASTM F2040
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- ASTM F2040 kids ski helmet. Best for: Children and teens skiing or snowboarding. See options on Amazon
- ASTM F2040 adult ski and snowboard helmet. Best for: Adult skiers and snowboarders. See options on Amazon
- Ski goggles that fit under a helmet. Best for: Closing the gap between helmet and goggles. See options on Amazon
Fit checklist for the slopes
| Check | What a good fit looks like | Sign of a problem |
|---|---|---|
| Snugness | No spaces between foam or padding and head | Helmet moves front to back or side to side |
| Front | About 1 inch above the eyebrows | Forehead exposed, or helmet pushes on goggles |
| Back | Does not touch the top of the neck | Rides down onto the neck |
| Chin strap | Centered; one or two fingers fit underneath | Helmet does not pull down on a big yawn |
From the CDC HEADS UP ski and snowboard helmet fact sheets, which give the same fit guidance for both sports.
Sizing before you buy
- Bring the skier or rider. The CDC suggests bringing your child or teen when buying, so you can check fit. The CPSC gives the same advice.
- Measure. Wrap a soft tape around the head just above the eyebrows and ears, level front to back. A string measured against a ruler works too.
- Use the brand's chart. Sizes vary from brand to brand.
- Ask how it feels. Snug, but not so tight it causes headaches.
- Hairstyle. Try it with the hairstyle worn on the mountain.
- Adjust. Some ski and snowboard helmets have removable padding you can change for a better fit.
Helmet and goggles together
The CDC says to try the helmet on with the goggles that will be worn on the slopes. The helmet should sit snugly on top of the goggles with no gap between helmet and goggle frame, but it should not sit so low that it pushes the goggles down. Check that the wearer can see straight ahead and side to side.
Because fit depends on the pair, it helps to bring your goggles when shopping for a helmet, or your helmet when shopping for goggles. If the two do not sit well together, try another combination before you buy.
Labels and standards
The CDC says to look for a ski or snowboard helmet with labels that show the date of manufacture, which helps in a recall, and that say it is ASTM certified, meaning it has been tested and meets safety standards. The CPSC's "Which Helmet for Which Activity?" table lists the snow sports helmet, meeting ASTM F2040 or Snell S-98 or RS-98, for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
The CPSC also says not to rely on a helmet's name, appearance or packaging claims; look for the compliance label, usually inside the liner, on the shell or on the chin strap. It warns that no helmet design has been proven to prevent concussions.
Multi-use helmets
Some companies make multi-use helmets for skiing, skateboarding and other activities. The CDC says these are designed to withstand multiple very minor hits but must be replaced after a serious crash or damage. Before using one on the slopes, check that it has an ASTM label certifying it for skiing or snowboarding. The CPSC notes that only a few helmets are rated for more than one activity, so a bicycle helmet should not be assumed to cover skiing.
For skateboarding helmets, see our skateboard helmet guide; for cycling, our bike helmet guide.
When to replace and how to care for it
- After a crash. Ski and snowboard helmets can withstand more than one very minor hit, but must be replaced after a serious crash or if damaged, the CDC says.
- With age. The CPSC says to follow the maker's guidance, and without it, replacing within 5 to 10 years of purchase may be prudent. Cracks, crushed foam, a loose shell, worn straps or missing pads are all reasons to replace.
- Clean gently with warm water and mild detergent; no soaking, high heat or strong cleaners.
- Store it out of the car, away from direct sun, in a room that is not too hot or too cold. Do not sit or lean on it.
- No stickers or paint without checking with the manufacturer.
What to look for when you buy
ASTM F2040 kids ski helmet
Best for: Children and teens skiing or snowboarding
The CPSC lists ASTM F2040 helmets for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
Watch out: Try it with the goggles your child will wear.
See options on AmazonASTM F2040 adult ski and snowboard helmet
Best for: Adult skiers and snowboarders
The CDC says to look for an ASTM certified label and a date of manufacture.
Watch out: Check the brand's sizing chart against your head measurement.
See options on AmazonSki goggles that fit under a helmet
Best for: Closing the gap between helmet and goggles
The CDC says the helmet should sit snugly on the goggles with no space between.
Watch out: The helmet should not push the goggles down.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- Is a ski helmet the same as a snowboard helmet?
- Yes. The CPSC lists one snow sports helmet type, ASTM F2040 or Snell S-98 or RS-98, for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
- How should a ski helmet fit?
- Snug with no gaps, about 1 inch above the eyebrows, not touching the neck, and snug over your goggles.
- How tight should the chin strap be?
- No more than one or two fingers between chin and strap, and the helmet should pull down when you yawn.
- When should I replace a ski helmet?
- After a serious crash, if damaged, or per the maker; the CPSC says within 5 to 10 years may be prudent.
- Can I use my bike helmet for skiing?
- Do not assume so. The CPSC says few helmets cover more than one activity; look for an ASTM label for skiing.
Sources
- Get a Heads Up on Ski Helmet Safety (fact sheet) (cdc.gov), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Get a Heads Up on Snowboard Helmet Safety (fact sheet) (cdc.gov), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Which Helmet for Which Activity? (cpsc.gov), U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission