Helmets: CPSC, ANSI, SNELL... ???

[Shaman]

Okay, what do you do when the rules keep changing:

Helmets; I get a good deal on a Schwinn helmet and plan on doing some group riding to find a good fit with a local club. Read the routes and qualification and such and am pretty happy with a few training rides.

Then I get to the "MUST WEAR AN ANSI or SNELL APPROVED HELMET! NO EXCEPTIONS!".

So I do the internet study on ANSI and SNELL and read that these standards are virtually obsolete. Most articles are before year 2000!

So do most bike clubs understand that CPSC approved helmets for bicycles is a QUALIFIED HELMET since CPSC supercedes ANSI!

Would a club lead or someone in the know PLEASE clarify this for me. I really don't want to buy another helmet just to have a different sticker inside it. Or worse, to prep for a ride just to turn around and go home.

Thanks in advance for some insight here.

[CB HI]

Your not really expecting someone will make you take your helmet off, so they can look for an ANSI sticker, are you? My helmet labels wore off a long time ago. Just go and enjoy the ride with the helmet you have.

[Shaman]

Well, I've been out of the scene for a while, but yes, Cycle Oregon use to check all helmets.

[Daily Commute]

If you're really concerned, check with the organizers. They may have just forgotten to update their forms. If they insist on ANSI, ask them to check their current insurance policy to see what it says. If the policy says ANSI, perhaps they need to check with their insurance agency.

The best way to find out if it matters is to ask other local riders if anyone still checks for ANSI stickers.

[CommuterRun]

This site explains the different standards.
http://www.helmets.org/standard.htm

I think the best thing to do is ask the club. Sounds to me like their rules need to be updated, since ANSI is no longer in use and almost nobody uses the Snell standards anymore.

[Shaman]

Thanks, guys. I'll check with the organizers and see if they'll update their web pages too.

[Shaman]

UPDATE: The ride organizer says CPSC is acceptable; Schwinn disavowes knowledge of their helmets and points you to the importer for regulatory info; and looking closer at the LBS's, same thing, no Snell or ANSI stickers in new helmets.

Thanks guys/gals