Inline Skating Helmet Buying Guide

Helmets are the single most important piece of safety gear for any skater and should be worn regardless of skill level or type of skating.

These round, dome-shaped helmets are often referred to as multi-sport helmets or simply as skate helmets. They offer basic protection in the form of an outer shell comprised of high-impact ABS plastic. The real protection comes just under that shell in the form of EPP or EPS high-density foams. On impact, these foams will compress and absorb the brunt of the impact, protecting your noggin. Skate helmets protect the back of your head more than a performance helmet since they offer coverage lower on the back of your head.

These helmets focus on ventilation and aerodynamics while still offering protection. They are lighter than the dome skate helmets but are also less protective. These helmets are best used by confident skaters that aren't expecting a fall but want protection in the event on an accident.

Speed skaters and Cross-Trainers will benefit the most from changing to a performance helmet.

Sorting through the various acronyms of safety certification can be one of the more confusing elements of shopping for a new helmet. There are several prominent organizations across the globe that are responsible for the rigorous testing of consumer helmets and the subsequent awarding of safety certifications. Please check the "Specs" tab on each product page for specific certifications. For more information on these organizations and their specific certifications and testing protocols, we recommend visiting their websites.

More important than which organization certifies the helmet is the fact that it does receive a certification. It is recommended that all skaters seek out helmets with some certification, but helmets that lack certification are sometimes used for less rigorous skating. A helmet's certification will always be noted in the product description and can also be found on stickers inside or on the back of the helmet.

In most cases, you should replace your skate helmet after one significant impact because the foams do not expand back to form. Some helmets are marketed as multiple-impact helmets that can offer protection through several impacts. Even multi-impact helmets have their limitations though and may require replacement after several minor impacts or even a single severe one. If in doubt, always replace your helmet!

Some helmets feature additional features such as replaceable liners or built-in visors that are designed to enhance performance, improve fit or to make the helmet more comfortable. Any special features will be noted in the product details for each helmet.