Where Do You Measure for a Kids Helmet?

When it comes to ensuring the safety of your child while they enjoy their favourite activities, whether it's riding a bicycle, skateboard, or even a motorcycle, one of the most critical pieces of equipment is a helmet. For parents looking into childrens motorcycle helmets, understanding how to measure for the right fit is essential. A properly fitted helmet can make all the difference in protecting your child from serious injuries. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps on where and how to measure for a kids helmet.

Why Proper Fit Matters

Before diving into the measurement process, it's important to understand why getting the right fit is crucial. Helmets that are too loose or too tight can compromise safety and comfort. A well-fitted helmet will stay securely in place during an impact and provide optimal protection for your child's head.

Safety

A helmet that fits correctly will cover the forehead without tilting backwards or forward. This ensures that in case of an accident, the helmet will absorb most of the impact rather than transferring it directly to your child's skull.

Comfort

Children are more likely to wear their helmets consistently if they find them comfortable. An ill-fitting helmet can cause discomfort and even headaches, making it less likely that your child will want to wear it.

Tools You'll Need

To measure for childrens motorcycle helmets accurately, you'll need:

• A soft measuring tape
• A mirror (optional but helpful)
• Pen and paper to note down measurements

Step-by-Step Guide on Measuring for a Kids Helmet

Step 1: Prepare Your Child

Make sure your child is standing straight with their head level. If possible, have them look into a mirror so they can see what you're doing and help ensure accuracy.

Step 2: Measure Head Circumference

The most crucial measurement when fitting any helmet is the head circumference. Here's how you do it:

1. Positioning: Place the soft measuring tape around your child's head about one inch above their eyebrows.
2. Wrap Around: Ensure that the tape measures around the largest part of their head, which typically includes just above their ears.
3. Read Measurement: Note down where the end of the tape meets itself.
4. Double-Check: For accuracy, you may want to take this measurement twice.

Step 3: Check Helmet Size Charts

Once you have your child's head circumference measurement, consult size charts provided by manufacturers of childrens motorcycle helmets. Different brands may have slightly different sizing guidelines, so it's essential to refer to each brand's specific chart.

Step 4: Try On Helmets

If possible, visit a store where your child can try on various helmets within their size range based on your measurements:

1. Positioning: Place the helmet level on your child's head.
2. Strap Adjustment: Adjust straps so they form a "V" shape under each ear.
3. Secure Fit: The chin strap should be snug but not overly tight—just enough that only one or two fingers can fit between it and your child's chin.
4. Movement Test: Ask your child to shake their head side-to-side and up-and-down gently; if the helmet moves significantly or shifts out of place easily, try another size or model.

Additional Tips for Selecting Childrens Motorcycle Helmets

Consider Helmet Weight

Younger children may find heavier helmets uncomfortable over extended periods. Look for lightweight options designed specifically for kids without compromising safety standards.

Ventilation Matters

Helmets with good ventilation systems will keep your child cool and comfortable during rides—especially important if they'll be wearing them in warm weather conditions.

Replace When Necessary

Helmets should be replaced after any significant impact or every few years as materials degrade over time, affecting performance capabilities—even if there are no visible signs of external damage!

Conclusion

Ensuring proper fit when selecting childrens motorcycle helmets involves careful measurement combined with trying out different models until finding one offering both secure protection & comfortability tailored specifically towards individual needs/preferences! By following these steps outlined above alongside considering additional factors such as weight/ventilation/replacement schedules—you'll help maximise safety while enhancing overall riding experience enjoyment levels alike!

Check out our full range of motorcycle helmets, including full face motorcycle helmets, open face motorcycle helmets, flip front motorcycle helmets, off road motorcycle helmets and childrens motorcycle helmets, available online or by visiting our Darwen store today. If you have any questions regarding any of our ranges, please call our customer service team at Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear store on 01254 704 000 and we will be more than happy to help.