my helmet loosens up and slides around when I sweat - what to do?
 

Whenver I put on my helmet to ride, all of the straps are stiff and my helmet is snug. However, after I start sweating, the straps all loosen up, become very flexible, and my helmet slides around. What can I do? If I tighten up the straps, I can't put my helmet on before my ride. I've got the Giro Atmos.

Dunno what to suggest. Maybe get a new helmet? I have a Bell helmet with one of those dial adjusters at the back. Makes it very easy to accomodate a woolly hat, hood or headband when required, then when not needed, dials down to a smaller, tighter fit. Might solve your problem, but obviously isn't the most elegant solution.

I cut about a 4-6" piece of old t-shirt or sweatshirt sleeve and slip it over my head. It soaks up sweat, keeps the helmet from moving and gives me a piece of cotton in case i need to wipe my glasses. A bandanna will do the same.

I think it's a design fault with bicycle helmets. My straps stretch in the rain, so I tighten the helmet frantically all ride, only to virtually choke myself when I try to put the dried out helmet on again. And on top of that the straps tend to loosen over time, regardless of where I put the little rubber band that is supposed to stop that from happening. Any tips or solutions gratefully received.

Now that I have a growing bald spot on the top, crazy glue or 'magic mounts' double sided foam tape is a possibility..... (sorry - just couldn't resist)

Steve

Funny how them expensive helmets have that problem, but my $29 Bell Citi never seems to. Try a doo rag and don't tighten the straps into a death grip around your chin, snug works just fine.

Did you try locking that thing around your skull with the thing in the back?
Seems like the helmet might be too big for you.

I was about to say ...

The OP mentioned straps but didn't mention the head size adjuster (assuming his helmet has this feature). The purpose of the straps, I think, is to keep the helmet somewhat attached to your head (as opposed to flying off into the bushes on impact).

The head size adjust on the back is what keeps things snug on the skull. If the helmet loosens, give it another click. You don't want the straps getting so loose it will allow the helmet to get out of position or fly off your head. I've had to readjust straps during a ride ... not because the helmet was loose but because I didn't like the idea of straps being too loose.

Good Luck,
d.tipton

wipe the straps down with a damp sponge and moisten them a bit so they're relaxed. adjust them to fit snug and since theyre already wet from the sponge they wont stretch any more. then just sponge them before the next ride to relax them again.

i sweat out a lot of salt & my straps get crusty white & stiff when they dry. this works for me.

Do y'all wear your straps tight against your neck?

The strap should feel tight if you stick a finger between it and your neck. Not too tight but snug enough that your helmet can't rock back and forth when you move it around your head.