Helmet Life
What is the general concensus for the lifing of helmets?
Obviously if involved in a serious crash the helmet should be a write off. But if the helmet has been kept in good condition, and not knocked around, how long should you hold onto one before its time to retire it?
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Simon Lownsborough on -
If all the cover is gone, and the foam is a dirty grey and starting to shred, and the straps are frayed, and there isn't any padding left, maybe it's time.
No joke, see it all the time. Just not on roadies :-)
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Permalink Reply by Michelle Crick on -
Yep check for cracks too
If a helmet has been used a lot and put in a shed for 5+ years would you really put it on your head?
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Permalink Reply by Patrick O'Kane on -
Keep it until a new shinier, sexier models comes on the market,or your favourite pro team change kit sponsors.
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Permalink Reply by Tim B on -
That's what Giro recommend for their helmets although don't know if that's for any structural reason due to degradation by UV rays etc, or only marketing to make sure you keep buying them.
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Permalink Reply by Andrew K on -
Unless it has been sitting in the sun/elements the whole time, modern helmets should last significantly longer than that in my opinion.
The 1995 Snell B-95 standard proposed a five year lifespan for example.
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Permalink Reply by Craig on -
I've got a fox flux that is still in new condition. No falls. And it's about 5yrs new :). Tho just got a new netti for the roadie
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Permalink Reply by Darren on -
Not going to recognise you with a road helmet and 4 weeks of "growth" Craig!
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Permalink Reply by heather on -
Craig, I got a Fox Flux last year in dark grey. Liked the dappled white / grey but unavailable as end of stock. Which colour did you get?
What is the lifespan of a helmet? Think it also depends on how often you ride and how, e.g. a fair weather cyclist or ride in all weather extremes.
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Permalink Reply by Craig on
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I've got the black n grey camo. I started of my cycling life on mountain bikes which I still love :) has been a great helmet ridden in all kinds of weather. When not in use it lives in my wardrobe, have replaced the pads inside but that's all.
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Permalink Reply by rossmg on -
Bicycle Helmets are governed by Australian Standards, specifically:
http://www.productsafety.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/974624
And from that description:
- The helmet is designed to absorb shock by partial destruction of the shell and liner. This damage may not be visible. Therefore, if subjected to a severe blow, the helmet should be destroyed and replaced even if it appears undamaged.
- The helmet may be damaged and rendered ineffective by petroleum and petroleum products, cleaning agents, paints, adhesives and the like, without the damage being visible to the user.
- A helmet has a limited lifespan in use and should be replaced when it shows obvious signs of wear.
The third dot-point is of course somewhat vague, given that such helmets are typically made of polystyrene... A little googling and regular polystyrene is not at all UV resistant but can be made so with additives.
As above 5yrs is a recommendation as a use by date, and/or fading or yellowing if such discolouration occurs.
Enjoy!
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