I spend a lot of time helping people fix their gear on the hill. Some of the most common problems I see have nothing to do with boards, skis, or boots. It’s helmets that don’t fit properly. A helmet should feel invisible when it’s right, but for a lot of riders, it’s just another thing to adjust every run. Here’s how to get it right once and for all.
Why So Many Riders Still Wear Their Helmets Wrong
Every winter I see the same issues. Helmets sitting too high, straps too loose and goggles fighting the shell for space. Most of the time it isn’t bad gear. It’s a small fit mistake that makes everything feel off.
The High Perch
If your helmet looks like it’s floating above your head, it’s either too small or sitting too high. It should sit low enough that the front edge is just above your eyebrows. No visible gap above the goggles. If you can feel wind on your forehead, that’s your first clue something’s wrong.
The Loose Strap
A chin strap that’s barely clipped might as well not be there. It should sit firm under your chin so the helmet stays locked in place if you take a fall. Open your mouth wide and you should feel the helmet pull down slightly. That means it’s doing its job.
The Goggle Gap
This one is everywhere. A visible gap between your goggles and helmet ruins the seal and lets in cold air. It also messes with airflow, which is why so many people think their goggles always fog. Test the fit at home with your usual goggles. A clean seal means better vision and fewer stops to wipe lenses.
The Wrong Size Call
If you have to crank the dial all the way to get it snug, it’s too big. If it still feels high even when loose, it’s too small. You want light, even pressure around your whole head. When you shake your head, it shouldn’t move. That’s the difference between a helmet that protects you and one that doesn’t. All the tech in the world can’t save you from a poor fit.
The Beanie Mistake
A thick beanie under the helmet is the fastest way to ruin the fit. The liner is already insulated. If you need more warmth, use a thin well-rated balaclava or skull cap. You’ll stay warmer and the helmet will sit where it should.
Forgetting the Vents
Your vents are not decoration. They manage heat and moisture, which matters a lot when you hike or ride long spring laps. Open them when you start to sweat and close them when the wind picks up. A small habit like that keeps your head dry and comfortable all day. You’ll then be less tempted to leave your helmet at home.
Never Checking the Liner
Most riders never look inside their helmet, but the liner breaks down faster than they think. If the padding feels soft or loose, replace it. A worn liner changes how the helmet fits and how it absorbs impact.
Ignoring the Expiry
Helmets do not last forever. Even if they look fine, the foam hardens and loses its ability to absorb impact over time. Five to seven seasons is about the limit. If it’s older than that or if it has taken a solid hit, replace it. It is not worth guessing. Most helmets are designed to take one hit and be replaced (sorry).
Final Thoughts
A helmet that fits right disappears. If you are adjusting straps, wiping fog, or fighting goggle gaps, the setup is wrong. Spend ten minutes getting the fit dialed and you’ll be much safer. Fit will always be more important than the latest tech.
