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Question on Helmet Fit

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Old 08-16-10, 04:02 PM
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Question on Helmet Fit

I just got a nice deal on a Giro helmet: Indicator for under $25.

Overall, I am surprised by the quality and fit, both of which are pretty much spot on.

One quick question: the helmet does just about touch the top of my head.

With my previous helmet, even when adjusted tightly, the helmet never touched. There was maybe a half inch gap.

I just wanted to double check and make sure I have correct helmet fit. Thanks!
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Old 08-16-10, 07:01 PM
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Yeah, I'm sure it fits just fine. The real question is; do you have a $25 head? I know that all helmets supposedly fall under the 'very strict' code of the CPSC, but still, a $25 helmet? Don't know that I would trust my nugget in that thing!!!

Mike
 
Old 08-16-10, 07:02 PM
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Originally Posted by Slowrollin'
Yeah, I'm sure it fits just fine. The real question is; do you have a $25 head? I know that all helmets supposedly fall under the 'very strict' code of the CPSC, but still, a $25 helmet? Don't know that I would trust my nugget in that thing!!!

Mike
Perfectly fine.
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Old 08-16-10, 07:38 PM
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You definitely don't want gaps like your old helmet had and you don't want "hotspots" either. Also, "just about touches the top of my head" implies there is still a gap. If so, gaps of any size can enable acceleration injuries from the helmet itself under certain circumstances.

While you only inquired about the fit, you didn't share why it was only $25 and whether or not it is new. There is the possibility that you lucked out and got one heck of a good deal. But there are also scenarios in which this helmet might be flat out dangerous, fatigued or, maybe worst of all, a Chinese knock-off. Without any of that info it is pretty impossible for anyone to say that this helmet is safe, which it well might be.

So ... not enough info to really comment on whether either fit or overall safety is adequate. If you have a quality LBS nearby, consider asking their advice. This may be a great buy that just needs a couple extra pads added to ensure a proper fit.

Last edited by SwingBlade; 08-16-10 at 07:44 PM.
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Old 08-16-10, 07:40 PM
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Originally Posted by Slowrollin'
Yeah, I'm sure it fits just fine. The real question is; do you have a $25 head? I know that all helmets supposedly fall under the 'very strict' code of the CPSC, but still, a $25 helmet? Don't know that I would trust my nugget in that thing!!!

Mike
As long as the helmet fits, it will do the job.
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Old 08-16-10, 10:20 PM
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I got the giro indicator helmet from a major online retailer. It was brand new, just got a good deal on it, no tax, free shipping (wink, wink). It was on sale at roughly the same price from a bunch of different online retailers.

It's brand new, so no worries about a previous user.

It's certified, and my research indicates there are no differences in protection as long as there is certification. Here are two studies:

https://www.helmets.org/testbycost.htm

https://blogs.consumerreports.org/saf...r-models-.html

The level of protection is identical, regardless of cost.

The helmet does touch the top of my head, but I adjust it tightly so that there's a small gap.

But wow, thanks for the info--my previous helmet left a noticeable gap. I thought THAT was the proper fit, and only noticed the difference with the new helmet.

Originally Posted by SwingBlade
You definitely don't want gaps like your old helmet had and you don't want "hotspots" either. Also, "just about touches the top of my head" implies there is still a gap. If so, gaps of any size can enable acceleration injuries from the helmet itself under certain circumstances.

While you only inquired about the fit, you didn't share why it was only $25 and whether or not it is new. There is the possibility that you lucked out and got one heck of a good deal. But there are also scenarios in which this helmet might be flat out dangerous, fatigued or, maybe worst of all, a Chinese knock-off. Without any of that info it is pretty impossible for anyone to say that this helmet is safe, which it well might be.

So ... not enough info to really comment on whether either fit or overall safety is adequate. If you have a quality LBS nearby, consider asking their advice. This may be a great buy that just needs a couple extra pads added to ensure a proper fit.
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Old 08-16-10, 10:42 PM
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I believe the Indicator is Giro's entry level helmet but it does comply with US CPSC safety code standards. It is also best to be snug fit than having gaps.
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