helmet
 

I'm just wondering what a good all-around helmet would be. Right now I am considering a Giro Indicator. Does anyone have any suggesttions?

Get one that fits, and is comfortable.
Other than that they are all pretty much the same.

Last year's Consumer Reports gave best buy to Louis Garneau Zen/Rev (either one) as their best buy. Rated on Impact, Retention, Ventilation and Ease of Use.

I recently got one (when I researched it up) for about $50.


Recall Helmets to Avoid:
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DBX and Geartec bicycle helmets

Problem:
Helmets failed an impact test and may not provide adequate protection in a fall.

Products:
4,600 helmets including the DBX Engage (model VT-3) and DBX Ravage (FX-2) sold 6/03 to 6/04 at Dick’s Sporting Goods stores nationwide for $40 to $60; and Geartec ESPY helmets sold 5/03 to 6/03 at KHS Bicycles stores for about $40. Geartec and Ravage models came in carbon yellow, silver, or blue, and have a carbon fiber graphic. Helmets have 15 vent holes, removable visor, and “Geartec” or “DBX” logo printed on both sides. Engage helmet came in either blue/silver/black, red/yellow/black, or silver/black. It also has 15 vent holes, removable visor, and “DBX” logo on both sides. There have been no reports of any incidents involving helmet failures.
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Variflex "X-Games Aggressive" bicycle helmet

May not protect head adequately in fall.

Products: 240,000 black, white, or chrome helmets, sold 10/99 to 9/00 at sporting-goods and discount department stores for about $20. Helmet has red "X-Games" insignia on front and "X-Games" written on back. Large label inside reads "SGS CPSC CY50159." "Variflex Inc.," "Static," and "Made in Taiwan" appear on packaging.
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Bell Bellistic, Qualifier, and Rhythm bicycle helmets

Could come off in crash, exposing rider to serious head injury.

Products: 5,800 helmets, used for BMX and downhill mountain biking and racing, sold 10/98-4/99 at bicycle dealers for $90 to $125. Helmets are red, green, black, white and "Tear Away" (multicolored) with model name appearing on package. Recalled helmets have date sticker inside bearing date from 10/98 through 3/99. "BELL" appears on sides and visor.

Get one with a Snell sticker in it - they actually get tested. Given a choice opt for fewer ventilation holes, thicker shell, harder shell, and more head coverage. The good news is the most protective helmets also tend to be less expensive. Not sure what kind of riding you're doing but the BMX helmets offer much better protection than the roadie/mtb helmets.

Along those lines of a BMX helmet, there is Pro-Tec. They have a model called the "Ace Dig", its basically the normal BMX'er helmet, just add a visor.

Most important thing, find one that FITS. I know hat was said already, but it cannot be stressed enough.