Arguments Against Ski Helmets

An average of 39.8 skiers or snowboarders have died on the slopes per year over the past 10 years, according to the National Ski Areas Association. As a skier or snowboarder, you are responsible for your safety on the mountain. Helmets are among several ways to increase safety on the mountain. Although a helmet can help protect you from a head injury, there are many arguments as to why you shouldn't rely only on your helmet.

  1. Inconvenience

    • Helmets can be an inconvenience. Depending on the style of the helmet, they can sometimes reduce peripheral vision, and hearing. If your helmet doesn't fit properly, it can be uncomfortable or, even worse, will not protect your head as it is designed to do, according to the New York Times.

    False Sense of Security

    • According to Time magazine, wearing extra protection can provide a false sense of security, no matter what the sport or activity. Many people act more aggressive when wearing a helmet because they see themselves as invincible. In reality, you are only putting yourself more at risk by acting beyond your skill or comfort level.

    Fatalities

    • Although helmets have been proven to reduce the risk of head injuries caused by a direct blow to the head, they are not proven to reduce deaths on the mountain. According to the New York Times, the accidental fatality rates among skiers and snowboarders have remained unchanged, even though the percentage of skiers and snowbarders wearing helmets has continually increased over the years. A helmet is designed to protect a skier's head at 14 mph or lower, while many intermediate to advanced skiers travel up to 40 mph, says Dave Byrd, director of education and risk for the NSAA. A helmet may prevent a serious head injury in a direct hit to the head at slow speeds, but it's not going to protect you in a severe impact situation.