A correctly-adjusted child's bike helmet for effective protection
A child's bike helmet must be correctly adjusted in order to provide effective protection. It should move with their head and stay firmly in place. A correctly adjusted helmet is also a comfortable helmet: it should be easy to even forget you are wearing it.
What are the consequences of a poorly-adjusted helmet? A helmet which moves backwards and forwards, or sideways will not protect the head of the cyclist in the event of an impact. Not to mention the risk of not being able to see!
Advice for correctly adjusting a child's bike helmet
1. Adjust the head size
Most children's bike helmets are equipped with a head size adjustment system. It's very easy to adjust the helmet to fit the head of your young cyclist!
To adjust the head size of the helmet: loosen the adjustment wheel as far as possible and position the helmet on your child's head, slowly turn the wheel until the helmet stays stable and firmly in place. Be careful not to tighten it too far! Wearing the helmet might become very uncomfortable for your young cyclist. To ensure the helmet is fitted correctly, gently wobble the helmet on the child's head: the helmet shouldn't move.
2. Adjust the chin strap
The chin strap is key to keeping the helmet stable and firmly in place. It should be neither too tight nor too loose, and stay comfortable while providing suitable protection! The strap should go under the chin, against the throat. The buckle should not rest on the jaw.
Adjusting the strap is simple: clip the fastening system closed. You should be able to slide two fingers between the strap and your chin. If not, readjust the strap until it fits comfortably.
