So, I have been thinking about getting a new helmet. I do not want to buy any other brand other than UVEX. And, in particular, I would like to get a UVEX XP CC (pictured below).
So, my dear reader, tell me: How often do you replace your helmet?
Friday, March 2, 2012
How often should one replace a helmet?
I have had my UVEX XP-100 helmet for about five years now. I bought it off EBay in 2007. It was a cheaper display model. But the seller told me that it was barely used and the only reason he sold it for cheaper was because it did not come in the original packaging. As I have posted before, I have retrofitted the XP-100 to meet my needs.
For the colder months, I do have the Nutcase helmet, which is great for skating, but it does not have enough vents in it, for regular use during the pretty warm days of North Texas, which is a lot of days in a year.
From time to time, I do see some article about replacing one's helmet every so often. I don't think I ever committed that statistic to my memory. I have also heard some say that one should replace a helmet, if they crashed in it. I have crashed once with this helmet on. I did not crash on my head, but I did hit my head on the asphalt a bit.
So, I have been thinking about getting a new helmet. I do not want to buy any other brand other than UVEX. And, in particular, I would like to get a UVEX XP CC (pictured below).
UVEX helmets fit very well and they are not heavy (at least before I retrofit them). In particular, the XP CC has some great features. I just have to find it at the optimal price point :)
So, my dear reader, tell me: How often do you replace your helmet?
Paz :)
So, I have been thinking about getting a new helmet. I do not want to buy any other brand other than UVEX. And, in particular, I would like to get a UVEX XP CC (pictured below).
So, my dear reader, tell me: How often do you replace your helmet?
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When I break it!
ReplyDeleteI've been considering the same question. I've heard people suggest somewhere in the 2-5 year range, depending on use, exposure to sun, etc. If that range is close to correct, I'm due. Hopefully, you'll get some more knowledgeable input from others.
ReplyDeleteTwo years and I'm thinking about it.
ReplyDeleteNever.
ReplyDeleteI'm saving mine for crash and property testing. I'll also take any Chandra wants to surplus. It would be interesting to see if all that stuff up on top affects things or not.
If you believe what the helmet companies say; replace at two years. That helps sell helmets. In reality, it is when the foam and plastic and glue begin to deteriorate from heat and UV exposure, or has been compromised by an impact. Part of my testing will assess some of that.
I can tell you that a helmet can be compromised by being left in a closed car during the Texas summer in a matter of weeks. I already RAN that test...
I have no bike and no helmet, but in case I had one I would replace it after a crash. And maybe if I see a very stylish one like the XP CC...
ReplyDeleteI have helmets going back 10yrs+. Unless I crash them I don't throw them out. What tends to happen is a new helmet catches my eye and I retired the old one from regular use. My current helmet is entering it's 4th yr. I haven't seen one I like better so it will keep on trucking for me.
ReplyDeleteIf I need to I lend out the old ones or occasionally I still use them since they work better for specific missions [ie. my main helmet doesn't work well with a helmet light for MTBing at night].
Bottom line it's your head so replace your helmet anytime you feel it's warranted - for safety or style!
safe riding,
Vik
www.thelazyrando.com