You might be able to use a bike helmet for skateboarding. It depends on the type of helmet, how you plan to use it, and your personal preferences.
In this guide, we will discuss the different types of helmets available and what each is best suited for. We will also cover some tips on how to choose the right helmet for your needs and provide some advice on using a bike helmet for skateboarding.
Table of Contents
Bike Helmet vs. Skateboard Helmet
Most people who are into action sports know that there is a big difference between a bike helmet and a skateboard helmet. The main difference is in the construction and materials.
A bike helmet is designed to protect your head from one hard impact, while a skateboard helmet is designed to protect your head from multiple impacts. [2]
Single Impact Skateboard Helmets
If you are looking for a skateboard helmet that offers good protection against serious injury, you should consider investing in a single-impact skateboard helmet. These helmets are designed to protect the wearer’s head from one significant impact only.
After that, the helmet should be replaced. Single-impact helmets are often used by professional skateboarders and those who are new to the sport and are still learning how to fall correctly. [1]
Multi-Impact Skateboard Helmets
Multi-impact skateboard helmets are designed to protect you from multiple smaller falls. They are a good choice for people who have been skating for a while and know how to fall correctly. These helmets usually have a thicker shell and more padding than single-impact helmets and can be more expensive.
Skateboard Helmet Ratings
The CPSC uses two different types of ratings for skateboard helmets:
- ASTM F1492 Skateboard Helmet Standard
The ASTM F1492 skateboard helmet standard is a voluntary safety standard that was developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials. It rates how well skateboard helmets protect people from getting injured in a fall. If a skateboard helmet meets this standard, it will have a sticker on it that says “ASTM F1492” or “CPSC”.
- CPSC 1203 Bike Helmet Standard
The CPSC 1203 bike helmet standard is a safety standard that was developed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. This standard rates how well skateboard helmets protect people from getting injured in a fall. If a skateboard helmet meets this standard, it will have a sticker on it that says “CPSC”.
In general, you should look for a skateboard helmet that has been safety certified by either the CPSC or the ASTM.
Skateboard Helmet Sizing
When choosing a skateboard helmet, it is important to make sure that it fits properly. The best way to do this is to measure your head and then consult the sizing chart for the helmet you are interested in. Most helmets have a size chart on their website that will help you find the right size for your head.
Skateboard Helmet Features
Once you have found a skateboard helmet that is safety certified and fits properly, you can start to look at other features that may be important to you. Some things you may want to consider are:
- Ventilation: Skateboarding can be a very strenuous activity and you will likely work up a sweat while skating. Look for a helmet that has good ventilation to help keep you cool and comfortable;
- Visor: A visor can help protect your eyes from the sun and debris;
- Padding: It helps to make a helmet more comfortable to wear and can also absorb impact in the event of a fall;
- Strap System: A good strap system will keep your helmet securely in place on your head;
- Style: Skateboard helmets come in a variety of styles. Choose a helmet that you like the look of and that you feel good wearing;
Dual-Certified Skate and Bike Helmets
Almost all bike helmets are certified by the CPSC, but not all skateboard helmets are. In order to be certified by the CPSC, a skateboard helmet must go through extra testing to make sure it can protect you from a fall while skating.
There are two types of skateboarding helmets: multi-impact and single-impact. Multi-impact helmets are designed to protect against multiple impacts, while single-impact helmets are designed to protect against a single severe impact.
When shopping for a skateboard helmet, it is important to look for the CPSC Certification. The CPSC Certification is the gold standard for skateboard helmets. Some helmets also have ASTM certification. The ASTM certification is a voluntary standard that goes above and beyond the CPSC requirements.
There are a few helmets on the market that are dual-certified for both skateboarding and biking. These helmets have both the CPSC Certification and the ASTM Certification, so you can be confident that they’ll provide great protection whether you’re skating or biking.
If you are looking for a dual-certified helmet, we recommend the Triple Eight Dual Certified Helmet. This helmet is popular and perfect for both skating and biking. It has a hard shell construction that is durable and it comes in many colors and sizes. [2]
Helmet Durability
When choosing a skateboard helmet, it is important to consider how durable it is. The helmet will need to be able to withstand all the falls and impacts that come with skating. A good helmet will have a hard outer shell to protect against big impacts, and a soft inner liner to cushion your head on smaller bumps and falls.
If you’re looking for a durable helmet, it is important to choose one that has a hard outer shell. This will help to protect your head from big impacts, and the soft inner liner will cushion your head on smaller bumps and falls.
Fit
Another important factor to consider when choosing a skateboard helmet is the fit. The helmet should be snug but not too tight, and it should stay in place when you move your head. If the helmet is too loose, it could come off in a fall; if it’s too tight, it will be uncomfortable to wear.
To find a helmet that fits well, it is important to try on different models and sizes. It is also important to adjust the straps to ensure that the helmet stays in place.
Ventilation
When choosing a skateboard helmet, it is important to consider ventilation. The helmet should have enough ventilation to keep your head cool, but not so much that it compromises the safety helmet.
When choosing a ventilated helmet, it is important to consider how many vents the helmet has.
Weight
The weight of the helmet is also an important factor to consider. A heavier helmet will be more durable, but it might be less comfortable to wear. A lighter helmet might be more comfortable, but it might not offer as much protection.
What’s the Difference Between a Skateboard Helmet and a Bike Helmet?
Difference in Shells
The biggest difference between a skateboard helmet and a bike helmet is the shell. The skateboard helmet is usually harder so it can protect your head from big impacts. A bike helmet usually has a softer shell to cushion your head when you fall.
Differences in Straps
Skateboard helmets have longer and thicker straps than bike helmets. This is because they need to stay in place when the person is moving around a lot. Bike helmets have thinner straps so they are more comfortable when the person is riding.
The Difference in Helmet Shape and Design
Skateboard helmets are designed to protect your head from all sides. They usually have a visor to protect your eyes from the sun and debris. Bike helmets are designed to be aerodynamic so they help the person ride faster.
Differences in Padding
The padding inside a skateboard helmet is usually softer than the padding inside a bike helmet. This is because skateboarders usually fall more often than cyclists. The softer padding helps to cushion the head when the person falls.
Difference in Cost
Skateboard helmets are usually more expensive than bike helmets because they offer more protection. Bike helmets are less expensive because they don’t need to be as durable.
Different Types of Foam
Just like with bike helmets, the type of foam used in skateboard helmets can make a big difference in how well they protect your head.
There are three main types of foam used in skateboard helmets: EPS, XPS, and MIF. EPS is the best type of foam because it is able to absorb more impact than the other types:
- EPS foam is the type of foam most commonly used in skateboard helmets. It is made by expanding polystyrene beads with a blowing agent, making it lightweight and affordable. EPS foam is also used in bike helmets and is effective at absorbing low-speed impacts. However, EPS foam does not handle repeated impacts well, so it is not ideal for skateboarding;
- XPS foam is similar to EPS foam but it is made with extruded polystyrene beads. It is denser than EPS foam and does a better job of absorbing high-speed impacts. However, it can also break more easily;
- MIF foam liners are made of multiple layers of different materials that work together to absorb impact energy. MIF foam is designed to handle repeated impacts better than EPS or XPS foam, making it a good choice for skateboarding. However, MIF foam is also heavier and more expensive than EPS or XPS foam [1];
The Problem with Multiple Impact Skateboard Helmets
One of the problems with skateboard helmets is that they are designed to protect against a single impact. This is because foam liners compress when they absorb impact energy, which reduces their ability to protect your head from subsequent impacts.
A Skateboard Helmet Can Save Your Life
While no helmet can protect you from all injuries, wearing a skateboard helmet can help reduce the severity of a head injury. A good skateboard helmet should fit snugly on your head and have a hard outer shell to protect your head from impacts. The helmet should also have an EPS or MIF foam liner to absorb impact energy.
If you are serious about skateboarding, you should invest in a good quality skateboard helmet. Wearing a helmet can help reduce the severity of a head injury and could save your life.
Can You Use a Bike Helmet for Skateboarding?
It is a common question that many beginner skateboarders ask- can you use a bike helmet for skateboarding? The simple answer is yes, you can use a bike helmet for skateboarding. In fact, many professional skateboarders actually prefer to wear bike helmets while skating because they offer more protection than traditional skateboarding helmets.
However, it is important to note that not all bike helmets are created equal. In order to get the most protection while skateboarding, you will want to make sure that you choose a helmet that is specifically designed for skating. While any bike helmet can technically be used for skating, not all of them offer the same level of protection or comfort.
Besides looking for a helmet that meets safety standards, it is important to find one that is comfortable to wear. You should choose a helmet that fits snugly on your head and does not move around when you move. Additionally, make sure the helmet has good ventilation so you do not get too hot while skating.
Finally, think about the style of the helmet. Some people prefer helmets that are low-profile and do not block their vision. Others prefer brightly-colored helmets that make them more visible to other skateboarders and drivers. The style of the helmet is a personal preference, so choose the one you think looks best on you.
Take Good Care of Your Skateboard Helmet
No matter what sport you are playing, it is always important to take care of your helmet. A skateboard helmet is no different. In fact, because a skateboard helmet is designed to protect your head from high-impact falls, it is even more important to make sure that your skateboard helmet is in good condition.
This means that you should replace the padding and straps regularly and also inspect the shell for any cracks or other damage.
Here are some tips on how to take care of your skateboard helmet:
- Inspect your skateboard helmet regularly. Check for any cracks or damage. If you see any damage, replace your helmet immediately;
- Store your skateboard helmet in a cool, dry place when you are not using it. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a hot car;
- Clean your skateboard helmet regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners as they can damage the helmet;
- When not in use, keep your skateboard helmet in a safe place where it will not be damaged or lost;
- Make sure that your skateboard helmet fits properly. Replace the helmet if it no longer fits snugly;
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your skateboard helmet and keep yourself safe while skateboarding. [1]
FAQ
What helmet should I use for skateboarding?
The most important factor when choosing a skateboarding helmet is finding one that fits properly. Skateboarding helmets are designed to protect riders from head injuries, so it is important to choose one that is the right size and shape for your head.
You also need to make sure that the helmet you choose meets safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Most skateboarding helmets are made of hard plastic and have foam padding inside. The helmet should sit level on your head and cover your forehead. The straps should be adjustable so that the helmet fits snugly. You should be able to fit two fingers between the strap and your chin.
If you are unsure about what size helmet to get, you can always go to a skate shop and try on a few different helmets until you find one that fits well.
Are skate and bike helmets the same?
No, skate helmets and bike helmets are not the same. Skateboarding helmets protect your head from injuries, while bike helmets protect your head and neck from injuries. This means that skateboarding helmets do not always have the same features as bike helmets. For example, some skateboarding helmets have visors that can obscure your vision while biking, so it is important to choose a helmet without a visor or with a removable visor.
When choosing a skateboarding helmet, make sure it meets safety standards set by the CPSC. Most helmets are made of hard plastic and have foam padding inside to protect your head. The helmet should fit level on your head and cover your forehead. The straps should be adjustable so that the helmet fits snugly. You should be able to fit two fingers between the strap and your chin.
What’s the difference between skate and bike helmets?
The main difference between skate and bike helmets is the safety standard they meet. Skate helmets must meet a different safety standard, ASTM F-1492, than bicycle helmets, which must meet the CPSC standard. You can usually see certification stickers on the outside back of helmets.
Skateboarders also tend to prefer lower-profile helmets that don’t block their view as much as bike helmets.
Why can’t I just use my bike helmet for skateboarding?
A bike helmet is not designed to meet the safety standard for skateboarding, ASTM F-1492. Skateboarding helmets are designed to protect against more severe impacts that occur in skateboarding, such as being hit by a car.
The CPSC bicycle helmet standard requires helmets to absorb more impact energy and protect the head better against linear (straight-on) impacts than the ASTM skateboard helmet standard. The two standards are different, so a helmet that meets one standard might not meet the other.
In addition, most bike helmets are not low-profile enough to be worn comfortably by skateboarders. Skateboarders usually prefer helmets that don’t block their view as much as bike helmets.
Should you always wear a helmet while skateboarding?
The best helmet for skateboarding is one that has been certified to meet the ASTM F-1492 standard and that fits you well.
While helmets are not required by law in most states, wearing a helmet can help reduce your risk of sustaining a head injury if you fall while skateboarding.
If you choose not to wear a helmet, be sure to skate safely and always be aware of your surroundings. Skateboarding is a dangerous activity and accidents can happen even when you are being cautious.
Is a bike helmet OK for a scooter?
The quick answer is no. Unlike a bike helmet, a scooter helmet is designed to protect your head in a fall from a much lower height. A bike helmet isn’t going to offer the same level of protection as a scooter helmet.
Useful Video: Pro-skater stresses the importance of wearing a helmet
Conclusion
So, can you use a bike helmet for skateboarding? The answer is yes – and no. A bike helmet will protect your head from most of the same injuries as a skateboard helmet, but it isn’t specifically designed to do so.
If you are looking for the best protection possible while skating, it is important to invest in a helmet that is made for that specific purpose.
However, if you don’t have a skateboard helmet and don’t want to spend money on one, using a bike helmet is better than nothing at all. Thanks for reading!
Do you have any questions or comments about using a bike helmet for skateboarding? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
References:
- https://www.skateboardershq.com/can-you-use-a-bike-helmet-for-skateboarding/
- https://www.headsdontbounce.com/skateboard-helmets/bike-helmet-skateboarding/