How Thick is a Bike Helmet? A Guide to Helmet Sizes.

Bike helmets are essential safety equipment for cyclists of all ages and experience levels. They protect your head in case of an accident and can also improve your comfort and performance on the road or trail.

One of the most common questions riders ask is, “how thick is a bike helmet?”

The thickness of a bike helmet can vary depending on the brand and model and the level of protection it provides. According to some sources, most bike helmets have an outer shell thickness of about 1 mm and an inner liner thickness of about 15 mm.

In this article, we will explore the factors that can impact helmet thickness and how they relate to overall safety and comfort when riding.

Whether you are a casual cyclist or a competitive racer, understanding the thickness of your bike helmet is crucial for making informed decisions about your safety on the road.

What is the Thickness of a Bike Helmet?

The thickness of a bike helmet depends on several factors, such as the type of helmet, the material used, and the design features.

Most adult-size helmets are 1-15mm thick, while child-size helmets are usually 6-10mm wide.

Generally, bike helmets have two main components: a hard outer shell and a soft inner liner. The outer shell is usually polycarbonate or fiberglass, protecting it from impact and abrasion.

The inner liner is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam or similar materials, absorbing shock and distributing force.

The thickness of these components can vary depending on the level of protection and ventilation the helmet offers.

However, these values are flexible and can change depending on the model and brand of the helmet. Some helmets may have thicker or thinner shells or liners to achieve different goals.

What Types of Thickness Does a Bike Helmet Need to Be?

Regarding bike helmet thickness, there are a few other factors to consider.

First and foremost, the helmet must be thick enough to provide adequate protection in the event of an impact.

This means that the helmet should have a layer of foam or other material that can absorb and distribute the force of a collision. The thickness of this layer can vary depending on the level of protection offered by the helmet, with some models featuring thicker foam for more intense riding or racing.

In addition to impact protection, bike helmets must be thick enough to provide comfort and support for the rider.

The helmet should have a secure fit and ample padding to prevent discomfort or chafing during long rides.

Some helmets also feature adjustable thickness, allowing riders to customize the amount of padding based on their individual needs and preferences.

Ultimately, the thickness of a bike helmet should strike a balance between protection and comfort, providing riders with the peace of mind they need to enjoy their ride while staying safe on the road.

What are the Pros and Cons of a Thick Bike Helmet?

When it comes to choosing a bike helmet, one crucial factor to consider is the thickness of the helmet. A thick bike helmet has pros and cons, which can help you decide whether it’s the right option. Here is a table comparing the pros and cons of a thick bike helmet:

Pros of a Thick Bike Helmet	Cons of a Thick Bike Helmet
Improved Protection: A thick bike helmet provides increased protection against impacts and collisions, especially during high-speed crashes.	Increased Weight: The helmet’s thickness adds extra weight to your head, which can cause discomfort and fatigue during extended rides.
Better Durability: A thick helmet is less likely to break or crack upon impact, which means it can last longer and provide consistent protection over time.	Reduced Ventilation: A thicker helmet usually has fewer ventilation holes, which can cause your head to get hot and sweaty during hot weather or intense rides.
Enhanced Coverage: A thicker helmet can cover a larger area of your head, providing more protection against injuries to the sides and back of your head.	Limited Mobility: The added thickness can restrict your head’s movement, making it harder to look around while riding or during activities that require head movement.
Comfortable Fit: Some people find that a thicker helmet offers a more secure and comfortable fit due to the extra padding and cushioning.	Higher Cost: Thicker helmets are usually more expensive than thinner ones, which can be a disadvantage for budget-conscious buyers.

In summary, a thick bike helmet offers better protection and durability, enhanced coverage, and a comfortable fit. However, it also has drawbacks, such as increased weight, reduced ventilation, limited mobility, and higher cost.

Ultimately, the helmet thickness choice depends on your preferences, riding style, and the level of protection you require.

How Much Does a Thick Bike Helmet Cost?

The cost of a thick bike helmet depends on several factors, such as the brand, model, features, and quality.

Generally speaking, thicker bike helmets tend to be more expensive than thinner ones because they may offer more protection, coverage, and features. However, this is not always the case, and there may be some exceptions.

The price range of bike helmets can vary from around $20 to over $200 depending on the type and quality of the helmet.

For example, some budget bike helmets that offer basic impact protection and ventilation may cost around $20 to $50.

• Some road bike helmets that are designed to be lightweight, well-ventilated, and aerodynamic may cost around $50 to $150.

• Some mountain bike helmets that are designed to provide extended rear head coverage and additional features such as visors, lights, or cameras may cost around $70 to $200.

• Some full-face downhill and enduro helmets that are designed to provide maximum protection and comfort for aggressive riding may cost around $100 to $250.

Check Also: 9 Best Road Bike Helmets Under $100.

What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Thick Bike Helmet?

Before buying a thick bike helmet, several factors must be considered to ensure you choose the best option for your needs. Here are some things to remember:

1. Safety Standards: Look for a helmet that meets safety standards set by organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the European Committee for Standardization (CE). These standards ensure that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing to meet minimum safety requirements.

2. Fit: A too-loose or tight helmet can be uncomfortable and may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash. Look for a helmet that fits snugly on your head without being too tight and has adjustable straps and padding to ensure a comfortable fit.

3. Ventilation: A thick helmet can be hot and uncomfortable, especially in warm weather. Look for a helmet with good ventilation to help keep your head cool and comfortable during long rides.

4. Weight: A thick helmet can be heavier than a thinner one, which can be uncomfortable and may cause neck strain. Look for a lightweight helmet that still provides the necessary level of protection.

5. Style and Design: While safety should be your top priority, you’ll also want to choose a helmet that reflects your style and preferences. Look for a helmet that comes in various colors and designs, so you can choose one you’ll enjoy wearing on every ride.

Considering these factors, you can find a fitting thick bike helmet to keep you safe and comfortable on the road.

Read More: How to Wear a Bike Helmet? Safely and Properly

What Are the Best Brands of Thick Bike Helmets?

Many brands of thick bike helmets are on the market, but some stand out for their quality, performance, and reputation.

• Giro: Giro is one of the world’s most popular and respected brands of bike helmets. They offer a wide range of thick bike helmets for different types of riding, such as road cycling, mountain biking, commuting, and recreational riding.

Some of their best-selling models include the Giro Fixture II MIPS,

• which is a budget-friendly mountain bike helmet with a MIPS rotational impact system, and the Giro Synthe MIPS2.
• which is a high-end road cycling helmet with excellent ventilation and aerodynamics; and the Giro Scamp2.

• which is a kid-friendly helmet with a cute design and extended rear coverage.

• Specialized: Specialized is another well-known and trusted brand of bike helmets that caters to various riding styles and preferences. They have a range of thick bike helmets that combine comfort, protection, and features.

Some of their top-rated models include the Specialized Tactic 4 MIPS2,

• which is a stylish trail helmet with all-around performance; the Specialized S-Works Prevail II Vent2,

• which is a lightweight and well-ventilated road cycling helmet with crash-sensor technology; and the Specialized Align II2,

• which is a budget-friendly helmet with a 5-star rating in Virginia Tech’s independent helmet testing.

• Fox Racing: Fox Racing is a leading brand of bike helmets that specializes in mountain biking and downhill riding. They have some of the thickest and most protective bike helmets on the market, designed for aggressive and adventurous riders.

Some of their best-selling models include the Fox Racing Dropframe Pro2,

• which is an open-face helmet with extra protection for your ears, jawline, and back of the head; the Fox Racing Rampage Pro Carbon MIPS3.

• which is a full-face downhill helmet with carbon fiber construction and MIPS system; and the Fox Racing Speedframe Pro MIPS3.

• which is an all-mountain helmet with excellent ventilation and a fit system.

FAQS About How Thick is a Bike Helmet?

How do I choose the right thickness for my bike helmet?

To choose the right thickness for your bike helmet, you need to consider several factors such as:

• The type of riding that you do: road cycling, mountain biking, commuting, or recreational riding.
• The style and design that you prefer: color, shape, visor, etc.
• The features that you need: vents, MIPS system (rotational impact protection), light mount, etc.
• The quality and durability that you expect: shell material, liner material, etc.
• The price that you can afford: budget-friendly or premium

Final Fate

In conclusion, the thickness of a bike helmet is not a fixed value, but rather a variable factor that depends on the type, material, and design of the helmet.

The thickness of a bike helmet can affect its performance, safety, and comfort in different ways. Therefore, it is important to choose a bike helmet that suits your needs and preferences, as well as meets the relevant standards for bicycle helmets in your market.

A thick bike helmet can be a great option for cyclists who want more protection and coverage from their helmets, but it may also have some drawbacks such as weight, heat, and drag.

A thin bike helmet can be a great option for cyclists who want less weight and more ventilation from their helmets, but it may also have some drawbacks such as less protection and coverage.

The best way to find out how thick is a bike helmet is to check the specifications of each model that you are interested in or try them on yourself if possible.

I hope this article has helped you understand more about how thick is a bike helmet and how to choose the best one for you. Happy Biking!