What To Look For
When shopping for ski helmet, look only at helmets designed specifically for snow sports--they should meet snow sport helmet standards such as Snell RS98 (strictest) or ASTM F2040. Fitting the helmet is the most important aspect of buying it, so be sure to spend a little time trying them on. Get a centimeter measurement around your head using a measuring tape at half an inch over your eyebrows and refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart to determine what size that you need. Try the helmet on and verify it is snug but not overly tight. There shouldn't be gaps between the helmet padding and your head, and the helmet should remain snugly on your head even when you move it around. It should fit comfortably with your goggles and be an inch or less over your eyebrows. It should not touch your neck in back. Make sure that the padding feels comfortable against your face and offers ample insulation so you can wear it in place of a hat. Also look for any optional features you might prefer such as adjustable venting, built-in audio and adjustable liners, which provide a little flexibility to the insulation.
Common Pitfalls
Though you might have a bin full of biking and skating helmets at home, you should purchase a new helmet for skiing or snow sports. Every helmet is designed specific to a sport and its specific dangers. Pay more attention to fit and comfort than to style--the helmet needs to fit correctly to perform as designed. This should be the primary factor in your decision, with style and add-on features secondary.
Where To Buy
The local ski shop is your best place to start. While you can get a numerical size for your head, each helmet is manufactured slightly differently, and the only way to see which one fits is to try it on in person. A ski shop will offer the best selection. You can also find helmets at larger general sports retailers that stock skiing equipment. Shopping online takes away your ability to try helmets on and compare different models but can save time and money. Always check the return policy in case the helmet doesn't fit as you expect. Backcountry and REI are two retailers that offer outstanding return policies.
Cost
Most helmets retail between $50 and $200, but you can find reduced pricing by shopping toward the end of the ski season and purchasing during sales.
Comparison Shopping
Two types of helmet construction are in-mold and injection molded. In-mold helmets are lighter than injection-molded, but injection-molded are slightly more durable for the everyday hits and dings a helmet will take. Both offer comparable impact protection, so compare based upon weight, price and durability.
