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Can anyone recommend a cycle helmet that is flattering ??

35 replies

oohnicevase · 25/04/2020 19:36

If there is such a thing .. why are they so more unflattering than riding hats ? 🤔 thanks

OP posts:
Her0utdoors · 25/04/2020 19:46

To me that's not the point of cycling helmets. They are to make e difference between dieing of a head injury and surviving with concussion.

oohnicevase · 25/04/2020 19:57

I was expecting that comment and of course that's the point but some of them are so big and I'm sure some cyclists would know what I mean .

OP posts:
horseymum · 25/04/2020 19:58

A flattering one is a correctly fitted one, ie not balanced on back of head, or with straps hanging down in loops.

Interested in this thread?

Then you might like threads about this subject:

CaptainWentworth · 25/04/2020 20:03

I know what you mean OP - one wants to minimise the mushroom head effect (while remaining safe!). Have a look at Giro and Kask helmets - I personally find them the most flattering but it’s quite a personal thing unfortunately. Giro do some women’s specific models as do Liv (women’s side of the Giant cycling brand) and I think maybe Specialized?

Unfortunately the more expensive helmets do tend to look better in general. Look for the MIPS system as well - fairly new innovation to reduce effects of rotation injuries.

SuperLoudPoppingAction · 25/04/2020 20:05

www.skatehut.co.uk/brands/sfr/sfr-essentials-helmet-matt-black.htm?currency=GBP&productid=12766&gclid=CjwKCAjwv4_1BRAhEiwAtMDLsjL_A4hxYCZ6hx_kzt2f07vtEjfUjqnJ8dxT03TYy1-D2oTpfEzscBoCKpkQAvD_BwE

I have a this style one.
Possibly because I prefer riding helmets.

Not this model - a mongoose one.

totallynotchanging · 25/04/2020 20:05

I agree that the two should not be mutually exclusive. I've been hugely frustrated when buying a cycling helmet before. I just had to go for the best, safest, best fitting. But I would have been happy to spend a bit more for that, plus a washable band so that my makeup doesn't constantly rub off onto it , and with better provision for my ponytail, and even maybe a floater ring shape and colour. But hey, safety is most important to me. Doesn't mean I can't still want those other things too. Maybe a gap in the market there?

CaptainWentworth · 25/04/2020 20:06

Also most helmets come in different sizes so measure your head to help get a good fit They usually have an adjustment mechanism at the back so you can get a secure but not too tight fit.

totallynotchanging · 25/04/2020 20:08

Sorry - not floater ring - I meant flattering!

oohnicevase · 25/04/2020 20:38

Thank you .. I'll look at those options .. tricky at the mo because I can't try but I'll be prepared as I want to take up road biking after having a renewed love for cycling because of the lockdown ( only have a mountain bike at the mo) ..

OP posts:
rockingthelook · 25/04/2020 20:47

I like my Victoria Pendleton one, fits great, but offspring reckon I look like a jockey :)

AnnaNimmity · 25/04/2020 20:50

I think the Kask ones are the nicest - less mushroom-ey than most. kask

MrsAvocet · 25/04/2020 21:45

I also think that Kask make some of the nicest looking and most comfortable helmets. I've got a Rapido and a Mojito. I have another that's quite nice, made by Giro but I can't remember the model, and a Carnac Podium from Planet X which is remarkably nice for such a cheap helmet. But ultimately it depends on your head shape so I would be inclinec to wait til you can try a few on unless you are desperate.

Pedallleur · 25/04/2020 21:48

Giro, Laser, Kask, Bell all make helmets but you need to try them on.

EstebanTheMagnificent · 25/04/2020 22:09

Have a look at Cycle Chic - they are good for this kind of thing: www.cyclechic.co.uk/shop/helmets

If you want a sort of riding helmet style then the skate-type helmets by Bern and others are good. I particularly like the ones with a peak.

BacklashStarts · 25/04/2020 22:15

Lol, no.

Sorry, seriously though, basically the lighter (and pricier) the more air will move through and the less crap your hair is after.

Nowisthemonthofmaying · 25/04/2020 22:17

What a pp said about cycle chic - they have some great ones, plus covers you can put on 'normal' ones to make them look a bit more like hats

SirVixofVixHall · 25/04/2020 22:19

I am very tempted by these, but worry I wouldn’t trust it to go off ! hovding.com/

midsomermurderess · 25/04/2020 22:26

The Thousand bike helmet. It'll do the job and look good bike helmet

MrsAvocet · 25/04/2020 22:57

Aren't those horribly sweaty midsomermurderess? They don't seem to have much ventilation, and what vents there are seem to be right on top of the head so I can't see that there would be a lot of airflow through them? And they are very heavy - nearly half a kilo! I think I would find that uncomfortable after a short time, especially on a hot day.

CaptainWentworth · 25/04/2020 23:11

Not to be the style police, but you might eventually feel a bit silly wearing one of those more ‘horse riding style’ helmets (like the ones on the cycle chic website linked above) on a road bike. Also very sweaty as PP said.

My BIL is a pro cyclist and he used to have a teammate whose motto was ‘never sacrifice style for speed’ (you have to imagine it in a Scouse accent) - road cyclists are an image conscious bunch!

midsomermurderess · 25/04/2020 23:18

I find mine comfortable to wear.

MrsAvocet · 25/04/2020 23:46

I was avoiding saying that CaptainWentworth but I quite agree.Grin Cyclists are a funny lot. I get teased enough for ordering green tea at cafe stops!
I guess it depends on what kind of riding the OP is planning to do. I think they are probably great for urban riding or fairly short distance commuting but I wouldn't fancy wearing a helmet that heavy and poorly ventilated for a long or intense ride.It would be a bit like wearing a TT helmet all day. For longer rides, especially if you are going to be working hard/doing a lot of climbing I really think a helmet needs to be lightweight and well ventilated. Nothing puts most people off cycling quicker than being uncomfortable.

JacobReesMogadishu · 25/04/2020 23:51

I have an abus helmet which is a bit like the Bern in shape but more vents. Lightweight, comfy, looks ok.

EstebanTheMagnificent · 26/04/2020 00:41

Nothing puts most people off cycling quicker than being uncomfortable.

It sounds like some other cyclists might be a significant factor too...

CormoranStrike · 26/04/2020 07:29

I found my Trek helmet the nicest in that particular way.