There’s no denying that skateboarders are a risk-taking bunch. From ollying down stair sets to grinding on handrails, these thrill-seekers love putting their lives on the line for a good adrenaline rush. So it’s not too surprising that many of them don’t wear helmets while skating. In this guide, we will explore the reasons why skateboarders choose to go without head protection and offer some tips on how to stay safe while skating without a helmet.
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Do Skaters Need To Wear A Helmet?
No, there is no legal requirement for skateboarders to wear helmets in the United States. However, many skateparks and municipalities require helmets to be worn by riders of all ages.
There are a number of reasons why some skateboarders choose not to wear helmets. For some, it’s a matter of personal style – they don’t want to look like they’re “playing dress-up” or riding a bike. Others believe that helmets interfere with their hearing or peripheral vision, and can actually make it more difficult to balance on a board.
Still, others argue that wearing a helmet gives skaters a false sense of security, which can lead them to take unnecessary risks. And then there are those who simply don’t like the way helmets look.
What it boils down to is a personal choice. There are pros and cons to wearing a helmet, and ultimately each skater has to decide what’s best for them.
Pros And Cons Of Wearing A Helmet
There are many valid arguments for and against wearing a helmet while skating. Some skateboarders feel that helmets limit their peripheral vision and hearing, which can be important while riding in traffic. Others find that helmets are uncomfortable and hot, and prefer to skate without one.
What do you think? Below we will explore the pros and cons of skating with or without a helmet so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.
Pros Of Wearing A Helmet
- Reduces the risk of brain injury by up to 85%
- Can protect you from serious injuries like concussions
- Skateboarding is an extreme sport and accidents can happen at any time
- A helmet can give you peace of mind while skating
Most skateboarders don’t wear helmets because they think it makes them look cool or tough. Some believe that it decreases their ability to balance, hear, or see. Others argue that helmets are uncomfortable and inconvenient. And some skaters simply don’t think about the risks involved in skateboarding without a helmet. Let’s take a closer look at each of these reasons:
Toughness is another common reason why skateboarders avoid wearing helmets. Skateboarding is often seen as a dangerous activity, and many people believe that only experienced riders should attempt tricks without protection. However, even the most experienced skateboarders can take a fall and sustain a serious injury.
Some skaters believe that helmets impede their ability to balance or hear while skating. However, there is no evidence to support these claims. In fact, wearing a helmet can actually improve your balance by providing extra support for your head.
Others argue that helmets are hot and uncomfortable. While it’s true that some helmets can be bulky and cause you to sweat, there are many comfortable options on the market. With so many different styles available, there’s no excuse not to find a helmet that fits well and keeps you cool.
Skateboarders often don’t think about the risks of riding without a helmet. But the truth is, accidents can happen at any time – even if you’re an experienced rider. Wearing a helmet is the best way to protect yourself from serious injury in case of a fall.
Cons Of Wearing A Helmet
The most obvious con of wearing a helmet is that it can make you look like a dork. Skateboarding is an activity that is often associated with rebellion and non-conformity, so anything that makes you look more like a “square” is going to be unpopular among many skateboarders. In addition, helmets can be hot and uncomfortable, especially in the summertime. They can also impede your vision and hearing, which can be dangerous when you’re trying to navigate traffic or other obstacles while skateboarding. [1]
Another reason why some skateboarders choose not to wear helmets is because they believe it makes them less likely to take risks. This may seem counterintuitive, but the thinking goes that if you’re wearing a helmet, you’re more likely to feel invincible and take risks that you wouldn’t otherwise take. This could lead to more serious injuries in the long run.
Finally, some skateboarders simply don’t believe that helmets are effective at preventing injuries. While it’s true that helmets can’t protect against all possible injuries, they do reduce the risk of head injuries by up to 85%. However, this statistic isn’t enough to convince some skateboarders that they should start wearing helmets.
If you’re still on the fence about whether or not to wear a helmet while skateboarding, there are a few things you can do to make a more informed decision. Talk to other skateboarders who do and don’t wear helmets, and see what they have to say about their experiences. Do some research on the pros and cons of wearing a helmet. And, most importantly, listen to your gut. If you feel like you would be more comfortable skating with a helmet, then go for it! There is no wrong answer when it comes to whether or not to wear a helmet – ultimately, the decision is up to you.
What Does The Law Say?
In most states, there is no law that requires skateboarders to wear helmets while skating. This is because skateboarding is not considered a dangerous activity. However, some cities and counties have passed laws that require skateboarders to wear helmets. Check with your local city or county government to see if there are any laws in your area.
What Injuries Can You Get From Not Wearing A Helmet?
Skateboarding is an action sport with inherent risks of injuries, some of which can be serious. According to a study published in the medical journal The Lancet, head injuries account for almost one-third of all skateboarding hospitalizations.
There are many reasons why skateboarders choose not to wear helmets, but the most common one is that they simply don’t like the way they look. Most helmets on the market today are bulky and unattractive, and many skateboarders feel that they detract from their style.
Another reason why skateboarders do not wear helmets is that they believe it makes them safer. This may seem counterintuitive, but many skaters believe that wearing a helmet actually increases their risk of injury.
This is because helmets can obstruct your vision and hearing, and they can also make it difficult to breathe. This can all lead to a false sense of security that can actually make skateboarding more dangerous.
So, while there are many reasons why skateboarders do not wear helmets, the most common one is simply that they do not like the way they look. If you’re considering skateboarding without a helmet, just remember that it is an extremely risky activity and you could seriously injure yourself.
How To Choose The Right Helmet
There are a few things you need to consider when choosing a helmet for skating.
Fit
Type
There are two main types of helmets: full-face and half-face. Full-face helmets provide the most protection, covering your entire head and face. Half-face helmets only cover your head, leaving your face exposed. [2]
Safety
All helmets must meet certain safety standards in order to be effective. When choosing a helmet, make sure that it is certified by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) or another reputable organization.
Full-face helmets offer the most protection but may not be comfortable for extended periods of time. Half-face helmets are less protective but may be more comfortable for extended wear. All helmets should meet certain safety standards in order to be effective.
Ventilation
Another important factor to consider is ventilation. A well-ventilated helmet will help keep you cool and comfortable while skating. There are a variety of different ventilation systems available, so you can choose one that best suits your needs.
Most helmets on the market today are not designed with ventilation in mind, and as a result, they can get incredibly hot and uncomfortable to wear, especially during those summer months. Skateboarders want to be able to keep cool while they’re riding, and a helmet that doesn’t allow for proper ventilation is going to make that impossible.
Straps And Retention System
The straps and retention system of a helmet are also important to consider. The straps should be adjustable so that you can get a snug, comfortable fit. The retention system is what keeps the helmet securely on your head in the event of a fall.
A good retention system will keep the helmet firmly in place, even if you take a hard fall. A poorly designed retention system can cause the helmet to come off in an accident, leaving you unprotected.
Are Bike Helmets Good For Skateboarding?
The simple answer is no. Bike helmets are not good for skateboarding for a variety of reasons. First, bike helmets are designed to protect against head injuries from falls at high speeds. Skateboarding, on the other hand, is typically done at lower speeds and with more control. Second, bike helmets are bulky and can impair your vision and hearing while skating. Third, most bike helmets are not ventilated well, which can make skating in warm weather uncomfortable. Finally, many skateboarders simply don’t like the way they look in a helmet!
The Best Helmets In The Market
If you are in the market for a helmet, there are four that really stand out. The Triple Eight Sweatsaver Liner Skateboarding Helmet is comfortable and has great reviews. The Pro-Tec Classic Multi-Impact Skateboard Helmet is another option that is very popular among skaters. TSG Evolution is a great choice if you are looking for a full-face helmet, and the Bern Bandito is a good budget option. Lastly, the Bern Bandito Child Bike/Skateboard Helmet is a simple, lightweight design that is great for skaters who are just starting out. All of these helmets have their own unique features and benefits, so it really depends on what you are looking for in a helmet as to which one would be the best fit for you.
Triple Eight with Sweatsaver Liner
The Triple Eight helmet is one of the most popular helmets on the market and for good reason. It’s comfortable to use, has a lot of positive feedback, and is approved by several safety organizations. The Sweatsaver liner is a great feature that helps keep your head dry and cool while skating.
Pro-Tec Classic Certifies Multi-Impact Skateboard Helmet
The Pro-Tec helmet is another popular option among skaters. It features a high level of security and is certified by many organizations. The Classic model has been around for a while and has a good reputation among skaters.
TSG Evolution
The TSG Evolution is a newer model helmet that is quickly gaining popularity among skaters. It is one of the lightest and most comfortable helmets on the market. It is also certified by multiple safety organizations.
Bern Bandito Child Bike/Skateboard Helmet
The Bern Bandito helmet is perfect for kids who want to get into skating. It is certified by multiple safety organizations and offers a great level of protection. The Bandito is also very stylish and comes in a variety of colors.
There are plenty of other helmets on the market, but these three are definitely the cream of the crop. If you are looking for a helmet that will protect your head and keep you safe, then any one of these would be a great choice.
FAQ
Why do most skateboarders not wear helmets?
The most prevalent reason that skateboarders do not wear helmets is that they believe it restricts their movement and creativity. Skateboarding is often seen as a rebellious activity, and many skateboarders view helmets as a symbol of conformity.
Another reason Helmets are not commonly worn is that they can be expensive, and many skateboarders cannot afford them. In some cases, skateboarders will simply borrow a helmet from a friend or family member when they are learning how to ride. [3]
Finally, some people believe that wearing a helmet gives skaters a false sense of security which can actually lead to more dangerous riding. This is because people who wear helmets may take more risks than those who do not, assuming that their helmets will protect them.
Is it weird to wear a helmet while skateboarding?
The simple answer is no, it’s not weird. In fact, many people believe that skateboarders who don’t wear helmets are the ones who are weird. Wearing a helmet while skateboarding is actually a very smart idea. Here’s why:
Wearing a helmet can protect you from serious injury in the event of a fall. Skateboarding is an extreme sport and accidents can happen at any time. A fall can easily result in a concussion or even worse, a head injury. If you fall while wearing a bike helmet, you can dramatically lower your risk of suffering a serious injury.
In addition to protecting your head, wearing a helmet can also help to protect your teeth. Dental injuries are very common among skateboarders who don’t wear helmets. A fall can easily result in a cracked or broken tooth. Wearing a helmet can help to prevent this type of injury.
Do professional skateboarders wear helmets?
In fact, most skateboarders don’t wear helmets at all – professionals or not.
While cruising the streets, skateparks, or bombing steep slopes, most professional skaters advocate the use of helmets. [4]
There are a few reasons for this, the main one being that helmets are simply not cool. Skateboarding has always been about rebellion and pushing the boundaries, so wearing something as “uncool” as a helmet goes against everything the culture stands for.
Why do skaters not wear protection?
The most common answer you’ll hear is that it’s “cool” not to wear a helmet. In fact, many professional skaters don’t wear helmets, which contributes to the idea that it’s okay to skate without one. There’s also a sense of freedom that comes with skating without a helmet. Skateboarding is often seen as a rebellious activity, and not wearing a helmet can be viewed as part of that rebellious streak. Additionally, some skaters feel like they are better able to balance and perform tricks without a helmet getting in the way.
Another reason why some skaters choose not to wear helmets is because they find them uncomfortable. Helmets can be hot and sweaty, especially in warm weather, and they can also be bulky and inconvenient to carry around.
Of course, there are also skaters who do choose to wear helmets, even though it’s not the norm. These skaters may have had a bad fall in the past or know someone who was seriously injured while skating without a helmet. They may also simply believe that it’s more important to be safe than cool.
Did Tony Hawk wear a helmet?
Tony Hawk is a professional skateboarder who is well-known for performing stunts and tricks on his skateboard. He has also been featured in several video games and movies. While Tony Hawk is often seen without a helmet, he does actually wear one when he is skating. This is because it helps to protect him from injuries if he falls or hits his head.
How do skateboarders not get hurt?
Most skateboarders do not get hurt because they are very careful when they are skating. They use safety equipment, such as helmets and pads, to protect themselves from injuries. They also avoid doing tricks that are too difficult or dangerous. However, even with these precautions, some skateboarders still get injured each year.
Is skateboarding hard to learn?
Skateboarding can be difficult to learn at first, but it gets easier with practice. It is important to start out by learning the basics and then gradually progressing to more difficult tricks. It is also helpful to skate with friends or family members who can offer advice and support. With time and patience, anyone can learn to skateboard.
Why is skateboarding good for you?
Skateboarding is good for you because it provides a great workout, helps improve balance and coordination, and can be a fun way to socialize and meet new people. Skateboarding can also help reduce stress and anxiety, and can be a great form of self-expression. Additionally, skateboarding can help build confidence and boost self-esteem.
What is the most common skateboard injury?
Skateboard injuries are often caused by falls, collisions and improper use of safety gear. The most common types of injuries include bruises, scrapes, cuts, sprains, broken bones and concussions. While most skateboard injuries are not serious, they can be painful and sometimes require medical treatment. To prevent skateboard injuries, it is important to wear proper safety gear and to skate in a safe area away from traffic and other hazards.
What should you not do when skateboarding?
There are a few things that you should not do when skateboarding, such as: going too fast, skating in traffic, doing tricks that are too difficult, and not wearing proper safety gear. Additionally, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and skate in a safe area. By following these guidelines, you can help prevent injuries and have more fun while skateboarding.
Is 26 too old to start skateboarding?
No, 26 is not too old to start skateboarding. In fact, it is never too late to start skateboarding. Skateboarding is a great way to exercise, meet new people and have fun. Whether you are 26 or 60, you can enjoy skateboarding by taking things at your own pace and progressing at your own level.
Why is skateboarding so fun?
Skateboarding is a really fun activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a great way to get some exercise, and it’s also a lot of fun to do tricks and compete with friends. Skateboarding is a great way to explore your city, and it can also be a lot of fun to travel to different skate parks around the world. There are so many reasons why skateboarding is such a blast – it’s truly an activity for everyone.
Useful Video: Why Skateboarders Don’t Wear Helmets
Conclusion
Skateboarding is a fun and thrilling activity that comes with its own set of risks. But as long as you’re aware of those risks and take the necessary precautions, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience skating without a helmet. Thanks for reading! We hope this guide was helpful. Skate on!
References:
- https://pedalsanddecks.com/why-skateboarders-dont-wear-helmets/
- https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/bicycle-helmet.html
- https://www.today.com/news/skateboarding-tokyo-olympics-here-s-what-know-t226444
- https://www.surfertoday.com/skateboarding/why-and-when-should-you-use-a-skateboard-helmet