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How are skateboard helmets made?
Bike/Skate helmets have the same low-profile bucket shape and are constructed of a light and stiff styro-foam material called EPS (expanded polystyrene). This protective liner material condenses, breaks, cracks or fractures upon sustaining one moderate to heavy impact.
What kind of helmet do you need to skateboard?
Laws in some states and skateboard parks require helmets. Buy a skateboard helmet for skateboarding, not a bicycle helmet. You will get better coverage and protection built for skateboarding. Skateboard helmets should meet the ASTM F1492 skateboard helmet standard.
How should a skate helmet look?
The ideal skateboard helmet is one that fits snugly all the way around your head with no gaps or spaces between the foam lining and your head. A helmet that is too big can’t protect your head well if it slips or moves around your head. We’ve all seen kids wearing a helmet that is way too big.
Are skateboard helmets different?
The answer is yes. As a result, most skate helmets today are dual-certified and conform to the CPSC standard. Common sense says to choose the greater protection, even if it means having to replace the helmet more often. Look for CPSC certification sticker or online specification for skate helmets.
Can bike helmets be used for skateboarding?
Although all bike helmets are suitable for biking, you can use a bike helmet for skateboarding only if it also meets the ASTM F1492 standard. These dual-certified helmets offer more protection to wearers than helmets certified to only one standard.
Why should skateboarders wear helmets?
It should be mandatory to wear a helmet when riding a skateboard. “Head injuries are the leading cause of death and disability in these types of crashes. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of death or injury and reduce the severity of the injury in the event of a crash” (John Hopkins Medicine).
Should I skateboard with a helmet?
How long do skateboard helmets last?
If it’s ASTM or Snell, the helmet was designed to meet today’s standards for impact protection, and you may even find that Consumer Reports tested it in one of their articles. Most manufacturers now recommend that helmets be replaced after five years, but some of that may be just marketing.
Can I skate with a bike helmet?
What is a multi sport helmet?
There are some helmets that meet both the CPSC and ASTM F1492 standards. They are multi-sport helmets and can be used for biking, skating, riding a scooter and skateboarding. Don’t be fooled into thinking that helmets that look “skate-style” are always multi-sport.
Do I need a certified helmet for skateboarding?
You can wear a bike helmet for skateboarding but they need to be dual-certified to both CPSC 1203 and ASTM F1492 standards. A skateboard helmet should cover the back of the head, not all bike helmets provide enough protection. Be sure to look for the CPSC bicycle helmet standard sticker inside.