Helmet Homework

[Nena]

So, it's that time again: time to get a new helmet. I've been looking at Bell and Giro helmets, specifically the Vela and the Skyla. Does anyone currently use either of them? Or used them in the past? I have heard that the ventilation isn't that great, but I would like to actually hear from someone who has worn the helmet for more than one ride rather than just trying it on in the store. I have also heard that Giro helmets typically fit smaller heads. Most reviews on sites like Amazon say they are great helmets.

Advice? Tips? I appreciate it all mucho : ) My price range goes up to $40, if you have any other suggestions.

[tulip]

All helmets meet the safety standards. The differences are in fit, air circulation, color, etc. It's very important to try on helmets and NOT buy them over the internet unless you know what helmet fits you. For instance, I know that Bell Ghisallo is the best helmet for my head. But all the same, when I buy a new one, I get it from the LBS so that I can try it on just to make sure. Everyone's head is different. Get one that fits and is comfortable. You can only determine that by trying them on.

[SadieKate]

All the manufacturers make helmets for small heads, but small heads are not all made the same. Some are round, some are narrow, some are pointy.

Go try them on.

Ventilation is critical to me so I like lots of vents.

[Grog]

Do try them on.

Bell and Giro helmets offer a very different fit, and it also varies from model to model. Do NOT buy a helmet without trying it on, as if it doesn't fit you well it will be wasted money. Plus, an ill-fitting helmet will not protect you as well in the case of an accident.

As tulip said, they all meet safety standards, so go ahead and try them on now! What others think don't really matter, it's really how it feels on you.

[ShubieGA]

Hey Nena, I receintly bought a Gyro Skyla (it was on sale at REI, plus I had some dividend funds). It's very comfortable for me and I don't have a small head (my friends would have a field day with that). I would buy one again. And it matches the bike! Sweet!

[TsPoet]

My feeling is that Bell (and to a slightly lesser extent Giro) are made for round heads, not small heads. I can't wear either brand. Apparently I have an oval head - Louis Garneou (sp?) fit me great.
+1 that everyone else says - try them on.

[KatyLady]

I've had a Bell Vela for a year and a half or so. I find it very comfortable. When it comes time to replace it I'm sure I'll look around a bit; but I would have no qualms about buying another Vela if nothing else catches my attention.

[kfergos]

So, it's that time again: time to get a new helmet. I've been looking at Bell and Giro helmets, specifically the Vela and the Skyla. Does anyone currently use either of them? Or used them in the past? I have heard that the ventilation isn't that great, but I would like to actually hear from someone who has worn the helmet for more than one ride rather than just trying it on in the store. I have also heard that Giro helmets typically fit smaller heads. Most reviews on sites like Amazon say they are great helmets.

I've had a Skyla -- two, actually -- and I wear a Vela now. I liked the Skylas a lot. I crashed in both of them, and both kept my head intact, so on that front they get a star. Both are comfortable and fairly easy to adjust, and Bell/Giro have a crash replacement program if you smash one up. Ventilation-wise, my head does tend to get hot in the Vela in the summer, but I don't know if any helmet would prevent that. In the winter my head stays warm enough with just a helmet + ear warmers down to about 10 degrees F, so if you're thinking of riding in cold weather, they're good for that too.

In short, for a $40 helmet, I would recommend either one, although I slightly favor the Skyla. I found the straps fit my face a little better; they twist weird on the Vela no matter what I do.

[chakra]

I'm another Skyla fan - have a nice black one with the subtle gold flowers on it. Very comfortable, as for venting, I have found it great, but then I live in the Pacific Northwest, not Florida or SoCal, so I really cannot say how well it would handle "real" heat and humidity.

I've had mine for over a year, ride a lot and its straps have held up great, no twisting. It does fit around my face well too. Oh, and people have said I look good in it! Which is quite a compliment, cos I've looked silly in many

Have fun choosing!

Chakra