Bike Safety Month: Helmet Fitting 101 Before Hitting the Local Trails

Pediatric Providers Team
May 18
4 min read

May is National Bike Safety Month. As the weather warms up, many children across Baltimore County will be heading outside to ride bikes on local trails and neighborhood sidewalks. Before your child hops on their bike, make sure they have a properly fitting helmet.

A helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety gear your child can wear. It can reduce the risk of head injury by at least 45% and brain injury by 33%. But a helmet only works if it fits correctly.

How to Fit a Bike Helmet

Follow these simple steps to make sure your child’s helmet fits the way it should:

Measure the head: Use a soft tape measure to measure around the widest part of your child’s head, about one inch above the eyebrows. Compare this number to the helmet’s size range, which is usually printed inside the helmet.
Position it correctly: The helmet should sit level on the head and rest low on the forehead. There should be only one to two finger widths between the eyebrows and the bottom of the helmet. If the helmet tips back, it will not protect the forehead.
Adjust the straps: The side straps should form a “Y” shape and meet just below each ear. They should lay flat against the head.
Buckle the chin strap: The chin strap should be snug. You should be able to fit only one finger between the strap and your child’s chin. When your child opens their mouth wide, you should see the helmet pull down on top of their head.
Do the shake test: Have your child shake their head from side to side. The helmet should not move around or slip. If it does, adjust the fit pads or the dial on the back of the helmet.

Trusted Helmet Brands for Children

Not all helmets are created equal. When choosing a helmet for your child, look for brands that are well-known for safety, fit, and comfort. The following brands are widely recommended by safety organizations and trusted by pediatric and cycling experts:

Giro: One of the most recommended brands for children’s helmets. The Giro Scamp (for toddlers and younger children) and Giro Tremor MIPS (for older kids) are popular choices with excellent adjustability and safety features.
Bell: A widely respected name in helmet safety. The Bell Sidetrack II MIPS is designed like a mountain bike helmet with extended coverage down the back of the head.
Nutcase: Known for fun, colorful designs that kids love. The Little Nutty features MIPS technology, a magnetic buckle to prevent chin pinching, and is certified for both biking and skateboarding.
Woom: The Woom helmet offers excellent forehead, temple, and rear coverage with a magnetic buckle and high visibility. A top pick for everyday riding.
Lazer: A trusted European brand. The Lazer Gekko MIPS is designed for young riders and features an auto-fit retention system that molds to the child’s head shape.

When shopping, look for helmets that include MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System). MIPS is a special liner inside the helmet that helps reduce rotational forces during a crash. It is available on many children’s helmets for about $15 to $20 more than a standard model.

Important Helmet Tips

Buy the right size now: Do not buy a helmet for your child to “grow into.” A helmet that is too big will not protect them in a fall.
Check for the CPSC sticker: Make sure the helmet has a sticker from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) inside. This means it meets the federal safety standard for bike helmets.
Replace after a crash: If a helmet has been through a serious fall or crash, replace it right away. The foam inside may be damaged even if you cannot see it.
Replace every 5 years: Materials break down over time. Even if the helmet looks fine, replace it within the time frame the manufacturer recommends.
Do not use a used helmet: Hand-me-down helmets may not meet current safety standards and could have hidden damage.
No hats under the helmet: Wearing a hat underneath can change the fit and reduce protection. Tie long hair at the base of the neck.

Set a Good Example

One of the best ways to teach your child about helmet safety is to wear one yourself. Children are much more likely to wear a helmet when they see their parents doing the same. Make it a family rule: no helmet, no ride.

Starting the helmet habit early, when children first use a tricycle or balance bike, helps it become second nature as they grow. Let your child help pick out their helmet. They are more likely to wear it if they like the color or design.

When to See Us

If your child has a fall and hits their head, even while wearing a helmet, please call our office. We can help you decide if your child needs to be seen by us or go to the emergency room. Signs to watch for after a head injury include headache, dizziness, vomiting, confusion, or changes in behavior.

Have a safe and fun riding season!