A good biking helmet is the only thing that can prevent the most common cycling head injuries. But the right fit is crucial for protection. The best way to ensure a safe fit is to go to your local bike shop and try on some. But if that’s not an option for you, use a flexible measuring tape to measure your kids’ heads just above their eyebrows and compare to the helmet size chart inside the helmet. Remove any thick ponytails or hair clips that might prevent the helmet from sitting flush on their heads and secure it. It should sit about two finger widths above their eyebrows and stick out past the tip of their nose. If it feels too loose, tighten the internal back dial or pads.
The lower-end hard shell helmets glue or tape a thin plastic onto the foam. More expensive options mould the inner EPS liner with the outer shell, increasing durability and providing a more comfortable fit. The more expensive options also come with softer, more supple chin straps and more adjustability in the back.
Look for a helmet with non-pinch buckles. This prevents a child from being pinched when trying to fasten their helmet, which may discourage them from wearing it. More advanced systems include ratcheting buckles like Fidlock, or magnetic systems like Nutcase’s.
Once the helmet is snug but not uncomfortable on their head, have them shake it back and forth (without the chin strap done up). It should stay firmly in place, not droop or fall off.