@cruiserhead, Thank you very much for your reply. You've provided me with useful information.
I agree. I had initially thought that certain helmets would provide better protection than others, but I have come to think that if a £30 helmet isn't going to protect you from harm then the accident will be so damaging that even a £200 helmet isn't going to protect you either.
Specialized may be SNELL standard approved, but I understand that gaining such approval costs money and I believe other manufacturers are simply not spending the money for the stamp.
I've visited a few local bicycle shops and have tried on several different helmets. For me, I think the weight and comfort are the key factors to look for. I'm intending to use the helmet for road-use and therefore won't look for one with a visor.
Last edited by UK_Cyclist; 10-19-12 at 03:57 PM.