We replaced our helmets this week. We’ve been using a pair of old Bell Metros for the past 5-6 years and they were getting pretty banged up. According to the industry and other sources, it’s a good idea to replace a helmet every 3-8 years (it varies depending upon who’s talking), and if you take a spill and use the helmet, it should be replaced right away (this makes good sense). I understand the need to replace a helmet after its work is done, but I’m not quite convinced of the need to replace a well-cared-for helmet as frequently as every 3 years. You’ll want to come to your own conclusions on this based upon the available information.

Michael ended up going with the new Bell Muni. It’s a commuter-specific helmet with subdued graphics, a visor, attachments for front and rear lights, and a pair of rear blinkies built into the rear straps. She likes the fit and I think it looks great on her.

I tried the Bell, but I couldn’t get a good fit, so I ended up with a Giro Xar. The Xar is actually a mountain biking helmet designed for “all mountain” riding. I like the full coverage and the adjustable visor, but most of all I like the fact that it’s light and it fits me like a beanie. ;-)

By law, all helmets sold in the U.S. must pass the basic CPSC standard. Since there’s no way to know if, or by how much, a particular helmet surpasses the certification, I just look for helmets that are relatively smooth, provide good coverage, and fit snugly and comfortably. Those last two are probably the most important; the most well-designed helmet is not a good choice if it flops around or is so uncomfortable that it doesn’t get worn.