Fit is the whole thing
Every helmet sold here meets a safety standard. What varies between them is whether the shape suits your head, and a helmet that does not fit properly does not protect properly.
It should sit level, roughly two fingers above your eyebrows — not tipped back off your forehead, which is where most people wear one and which leaves the front of the skull exposed. The cradle at the back should be snug enough that the helmet stays put when you shake your head with the strap undone.
Head shapes differ. Some brands suit rounder heads, others more oval. This is exactly why we would rather you tried a few on at Hout Bay Cycle Co in Scott Estate than ordered one.
When to replace it
After any impact, even if it looks fine — the protection works by crushing, and crushed foam does not come back. Otherwise every few years, since UV and sweat degrade the materials over time.
See also gloves and lights for the rest of the riding-safely conversation.
