We’ve got your head covered! Here are some pointers on what you should look out for when picking out a kids' bicycle helmet.
Cycling is a great sport. It’s family-friendly, easy to pick up and an environmentally-friendly way to get around. Not to mention, it provides kids with some independence, too! We’ve already covered tips on where to buy a bike for the whole family, how to choose a bike and where to go for a family ride. And, there is a whole range of accessories to stock up on, from stabilisers to kneepads, bells and streamers, too. But, regardless if the kiddos are riding with you or by themselves, the most essential item they need is a kids’ bicycle helmet! Read on for tips on how to choose a suitable helmet size and where to buy them.
The HoneyKids guide to kids’ bicycle helmets
SAFETY 101
The Singapore traffic police advise that all cyclists should wear a suitable protective bicycle helmet to prevent serious head injuries if you fall… And that means the tykes have to wear one, too! We recommend you read up on the safety tips by the Singapore Road Safety Council for cyclists before heading out.
How to find a good helmet fit
Shopping for a new kids’ bicycle helmet? You’ll be glad to know most, if not all, bike helmets now come with adjustable knobs that can expand and contract to fit your kiddo’s head. Not only does that help helmets fit better, but it also means better stability. We find it’s best to head down to the store to try them out, so the little ones can get a feel for the helmet (and pick their favourite colour, too!).
You’ll know if the helmet is too tight if your tyke feels pressure at the temples, and too loose if it wobbles even after you’ve adjusted the straps.
Other important features
Besides buying a helmet that fits, be sure to pick a kids’ bicycle helmet that has a removable lining so it can be easily washed. Not only will this prevent sweat from creating a lingering odour, but it’s also great to prevent pesky spots on your kids’ face. You’ll also want to look for a helmet that has air vents to combat the humidity in Singapore.
Plus, you’ll also want to consider the helmet’s weight. After all, you won’t want your little ones to fuss about on a long bike ride on the Park Connector Network! We found lightweight helmets are the best for the tots. And you’ll want to purchase a helmet with adjustable chinstraps, too.
Psst, if your kiddies are into skateboarding, check out dual-certified helmets that protect the noggin for both activities!
Bicycle helmet types to consider
There are two types on the market: hardshell helmets and softshell helmets. The most essential part of both helmets is a thick layer of firm polystyrene that can crush on impact and absorb the force of a blow.
Hardshell helmets are covered with a hard plastic/fibreglass shell that provides a shield against penetration by sharp objects. And it holds the polystyrene together if it cracks in a fall or crash. Softshell helmets, on the other hand, have an extra thick layer of polystyrene and a cloth cover or surface coating.
The main difference? Style and comfort – softshell helmets are lighter, while hardshell helmets tend to be heavier and warmer.
Where to buy kids’ bicycle helmets
After learning why it’s so important for the kids’ to wear a helmet on bike rides, and what to look out for, here comes the fun part: shopping! There are plenty of options available – you can either shop online or in-store, and make the purchase at the same time you purchase the bike. But if you want to shop online, here are a few great options we love:
- Looking for something basic that will do the job? Decathlon has a sizeable range of helmets for the kids, and it’s one of our top places to purchase sporting goods. Plus, the kids will get to ride around on test bikes in-store, too.
- InlineX has a great selection of kids’ bicycle helmets, as well as skate and scooter helmets for the little ones. It’s probably the best place to look out for dual-certified helmets!
- If you want something stylish and cool, take a look at Melon‘s helmets that come in every shade of the rainbow. Your little one will be the snazziest cyclist in town!
- For maximum style, go for Crazy Safety 3D helmets, which are quirky, fun, and still offer protection. Kids can pretend to be toothy sharks or dragons as they zip around the city. We love these helmets and they’re sure to stand out from the crowd.
- We also like Kiddimoto’s funky headgear, particularly the glossy red one with a ‘flying goggles’ design – very retro! Some are also equipped with an inner adjustable strap so the helmet size can change as your child grows.
Buyer beware: Pros and cons of shopping online
Buying helmets online might be a cheaper (and easier) option, but you will not be able to check the fit and weight of the helmet you are keen to cart out. So, your best bet is to head down to a store and try on helmets of varying sizes and designs. It’s the best approach to getting a well-fitted and comfortable helmet so your littlies can ride happily.
Top image: Crazy Safety
Stay safe on the roads, and happy riding!
