Should You Replace Your Helmet? 

A good rule of thumb is to replace your helmet about every 3-5 years, at minimum. But what makes it fall into one end or the other of that spectrum? What factors mean you throw the spectrum out the window? 

 

Damage

Visual signs can indicate that your helmet needs to be replaced. Aside from the obvious—a cracked shell, torn straps, etc.—there may be more subtle signs. Look for dents, dings and abrasions, cracked or crushed foam, and other small signs that suggest the structural integrity could be jeopardized. You may wonder why something as little as collapsed foam matters. The helmet’s ability to protect you comes from its ability to dissipate energy during impact, and even small structural imperfections can make the helmet ineffective in a bigger crash. 

 

Impact

Without question, if you hit your head in a crash, you need a new helmet. External visual damage might be pretty easy to spot after a crash, but also check out the inside. Inspect the MIPS liner—if your helmet is equipped with this—to see if it’s been disconnected from the outer shell. Okay, but what if your helmet looks fine after the crash? Unfortunately, damage that reduces the helmet’s protective capability isn’t always visible, so the general rule is to replace your helmet after any impact or blow—even if you can’t see a difference.

 

Exposure 

Helmets age even if they’re sitting in your garage, but they definitely age faster with more use and exposure to outside elements. Sun exposure, air pollution, and even the chemicals from your sunscreen can reduce the helmet’s protective capability over time. Basically, the more your helmet gets out, the sooner you need to replace it. 

 

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