How to Know if a Ski Helmet Is Damaged

Ski helmets provide an extra safety barrier when flying down the slopes. Because of the importance of the helmet, it needs to be inspected several times a season and after any impact. Damage to a helmet occurs in two ways: impact and sun degradation. As a general rule, a helmet should be replaced once a year if used heavily or if it sustains an impact. Check for both types of damage at the beginning of the ski season to ensure your safety on the hill.

Instructions

  1. Impact Damage

    • 1

      Hold the helmet under a light. Slowly turn the helmet 360 degrees and check for any dents, bubbles or sections where the plastic shell is bent. If tiny dings are in the exterior helmet plastic, but don't show up in the foam interior, the helmet is probably okay for use.

    • 2

      Turn the helmet upside down and inspect if there is any separation between the shell and the interior safety foam. If so, the helmet has sustained serious damage and needs to be replaced.

    • 3

      Look for any cracks in the plastic shell or interior foam. If cracks are present, replace the helmet.

    Sun Damage

    • 4

      Give the helmet a full visual inspection, turning the helmet 360 degrees.

    • 5

      Check the exterior plastic shell for sun fade or any small, dry cracks at the edges of the helmet shell. Look inside for any interior shrinkage where the foam seems to be "pinched" by a misshapen helmet shell. If any of these are present, it indicates sun damage and the helmet needs replacing.

    • 6

      Twist the helmet gently and listen for any dry, cracking noises. If present, the helmet has sun damage and needs to be replaced.