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Everyone is aware of the importance of wearing a ski helmet in winter sports. But do you know what factors make a ski helmet good for use? Apart from choosing the right size, there are many other details you should consider. This buying guide will clear all the doubts you get while buying women’s ski helmets. Also, it includes an easy guide on how to measure your head’s size for the helmet.

Before we dive into the tips and tricks of buying the best ski helmet, let’s learn about the types of ski helmets.

Types of Women’s Ski Helmets

Women’s ski helmets are divided into different types depending on their shell style. There are four types of ski helmets.

In-molded Women’s Ski Helmets

In-mold ski helmets have dual materials in their construction. They have an ABS or polycarbonate outer shell, which protects against crash injuries. 

On the other hand, the inner shell is made of soft foam. Most brands use EPS foam to line the inner side of their helmets. This EPS foam acts as a shock absorber, thus protecting you from impact injury.

In-molded helmets are the best type of ski helmets you can buy. It is because they provide 2-in-1 protection to your head. 

Semi-Hard Shells

The outer shells of these helmets are entirely enclosed. Therefore, these are sturdier than the in-molded helmets. However, with no foam or padding inside, these are not so good at absorbing shocks. 

Double Shells

As their name suggests, these helmets have a double covering of outer shell. Two layers of ABS plastic means two folded protection. The inner part of these helmets is similar to the in-molded ones. 

Hybrid Shells

These are a combination of in-molded and hard-shell helmets. The areas that receive the most impact are coated with a thick layer of ABS plastic. It further reduces the risk of any impact injuries. 

Zip Mold

Many women prefer zip mold helmets because they are incredibly lightweight. These helmets have EPS foam inside. In addition, their shells have polycarbonate material. Both these components turn the helmet into a seamless product. 

How to Choose the Best Women’s Ski Helmets?

Certifications

Ski helmets undergo several tests to be safety certified. The two most trustable safety certifications are ASTM and CE. If a ski helmet is ASTM certified, it means it meets US safety requirements. 

On the other hand, if a helmet is CE-certified, it complies with European safety standards. You should always choose a ski helmet which is certified by either one of these standards. 

Ventilation

When you ski with a helmet, your head gets hot with all the trapped air. Therefore, you feel extra warm even in freezing temperatures. It is why you should buy a ski helmet that has good ventilation. 

Almost all helmets come with air vents that allow proper airflow. One thing you need to look for is front vents. The vents present on the front keep your goggles fog proof. 

Audio Compatible

There is no need for this feature, but most women prefer it. Ski helmets with ear flaps allow you to use speakers or MP3 in your helmet. Due to this audio compatibility, you can listen to your favorite music while skiing. 

MIPS Protection

MIPS is Multi-directional Protection System. It provides additional protection to the brain by reducing the impact on the head. With special lining inside the shell, this system prevents the spinning of the head. And it is how your brain stays safe during a fall. 

Style

Apart from the design, women’s ski helmets are categorized into different styles. 

1. Full Shell Helmets

These helmets have an entire outer shell that also extends towards the ears. These helmets are mainly used because of their jaw guard compatibility. Also, these ski helmets offer premium protection to the rider due to the extended outer shell. 

2. Half Shell Helmets

Most women prefer to wear half-shell helmets. It is because these helmets offer more comfort and hearing. 

The outer shell of these helmets does not extend towards the ears. It has soft ear flaps to cover the ears. This way, this helmet is also compatible with audio systems. 

3. Full Face Helmets

These helmets offer maximum protection. Their outer shell also covers the jaw area, so there is no need for a jaw guard. However, these helmets have several drawbacks. 

Full-face helmets are heavy due to extra ABS, and these are uncomfortable. It is why women rarely use these for skiing. 

Fitting

If your ski helmet does not fit your head, it will do you no good. A poorly fit helmet does not provide any protection to your head. It is why you should always pay special attention to the size while buying a ski helmet. 

If you have never bought a ski helmet before, use this guide to calculate your right head size. 

How to Measure Your Size?

Before you start looking for women’s ski helmets, you should measure your size. Here’s how to do it correctly.

• Take a measuring tape and place its one end over your eyebrows.
• Circle the measuring tape around your head. Measure the circumference. 
• Make sure the measuring tape is not curved from any point.
• Once you get the measurement in inches, match it with the size chart.
• If you do not have a measuring tape at home, you can also use a piece of fabric or a piece of string. Once you mark the point of your head size, match it with the measurement on tape.  

Which Women’s Ski Helmets are Best for Me?

If you are overwhelmed by the choices available, we can help you decide. We have reviewed the 10 best women’s ski helmets in our article that will suit you the best. You can also weigh their pros and cons to find the best product for yourself. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing a ski helmet becomes less overwhelming if you know what traits to look for. The women’s ski helmets which are safety certified, audio compatible, and have MIPS protection are the best-suited for you. Plus, they must allow maximum airflow and fit you well.