As winter approaches, the snowboarding season is just around the corner. For all the adrenaline junkies out there, snowboarding is one of the most thrilling sports to pursue. The feeling of gliding down the slopes, the wind in your hair, and the excitement of the rush is a feeling like no other. However, it is essential to ensure that you have the right gear to make the most of your snowboarding experience.
One of the most crucial pieces of equipment for any snowboarder is a helmet. Snowboarding can be an extreme sport, and it is essential to protect your head from any potential impact. In this blog post, we will discuss the safest snowboarding helmets on the market and why it is crucial to invest in the right one.
Snowboarding Helmets: Why are they important?
It goes without saying that snowboarding helmets are an essential part of your gear. Accidents can happen at any time, and it is vital to have the right protection from any potential impact. According to the National Ski Areas Association, wearing a helmet while snowboarding can reduce the risk of head injury by 30-50%.
Moreover, in some states, it is mandatory to wear helmets while snowboarding. So, it is essential to have a good snowboarding helmet while shredding down the snow-covered slopes.
What are the safest snowboarding helmets on the market?
When it comes to helmets, safety is the top priority. Here are some of the best and safest snowboarding helmets on the market:
1. Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet
The Smith Vantage MIPS helmet is a great option for those who want high-quality protection without compromising on style. MIPS technology stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, which provides extra protection against rotational forces in case of an impact.
Moreover, the Vantage helmet features a hybrid shell construction, which combines lightweight in-mold and durable ABS shell materials. Additionally, it also includes a ventilation system that enables adjustable airflow for comfort.
2. Giro Nine MIPS Helmet
The Giro Nine MIPS helmet is another excellent option for those looking for a reliable and safe choice. The helmet features MIPS technology, which ensures that your head is protected from any rotational impact. The helmet also includes a hard shell construction, ensuring the helmet’s durability.
Furthermore, it has an adjustable ventilation system that allows easy control of the airflow. It also features a removable goggle retainer and earpads, making it easy to use with compatible accessories.
3. Oakley Mod 5 MIPS Helmet
Oakley is a well-renowned brand for its high-quality gear, and the Mod 5 MIPS helmet is no exception. With MIPS technology, it ensures added protection against rotational forces. The helmet features a hard shell construction that is durable and can withstand any impact.
The helmet’s ventilation system is adjustable, with both front and rear vents that can be opened or closed as per your preference. Furthermore, the helmet also includes a removable and washable liner, making maintenance and cleaning easier.
4. POC Auric Cut Backcountry Spin Helmet
The POC Auric Cut Backcountry Spin Helmet is a great option for those who enjoy backcountry snowboarding. The helmet features the SPIN (Shearing Pad INside) system, which provides additional protection against impacts.
Moreover, the helmet includes a multi-impact EPP liner, which absorbs any impact and ensures that it doesn’t deform in case of a collision. Additionally, the helmet’s ventilation system allows easy and adjustable airflow, ensuring comfort during long snowboarding sessions.
Factors to consider when choosing a snowboarding helmet
Apart from safety, there are several factors to consider when choosing a snowboarding helmet. Here are some of the essential factors to keep in mind:
1. Fit
The most crucial factor when choosing a helmet is the fit. A helmet that doesn’t fit correctly will not provide adequate protection. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the helmet fits snugly on your head and that there is no movement.
2. Ventilation
Snowboarding can be a strenuous activity, and it is essential to have proper ventilation to avoid overheating. A helmet with adjustable ventilation options is a must-have to control the airflow as per your preference.
3. Accessories compatibility
Snowboarding goggles are an essential part of snowboarding gear, and it is crucial to ensure that the helmet is compatible with the goggles. Some helmets come with removable earpads and a goggle retainer, allowing the goggles to fit snugly onto the helmet.
Snowboarding Goggles: Are They Important?
Apart from a helmet, snowboarding goggles are also crucial for protection and clear vision while snowboarding. Snowboarding goggles protect your eyes from the snow glare and wind, providing a clear field of vision. Moreover, they also protect the eyes from any potential impact, such as a branch or snow debris.
What to look for in snowboarding goggles
Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing snowboarding goggles:
1. Lens type
The lens is the most critical part of the goggles as it determines your vision on the slopes. Different lenses are suitable for different conditions. A clear lens is suitable for days with low light conditions, while a dark lens is ideal for sunny days.
2. Fit
Just like helmets, goggles’ fit is essential for proper protection and vision. It is crucial to ensure that the goggles fit snugly on your face, without any gaps or movements.
3. Ventilation
Goggles can fog up easily, making it hard to see the slopes. Therefore, it is essential to choose goggles with proper ventilation options to prevent fogging.
Snowboarding Helmet and Goggles: A Perfect Match
Helmets and goggles are two essential parts of snowboarding gear that go hand in hand. Choosing the right helmet and goggles combination ensures that you have maximum protection and a clear field of vision while snowboarding. Moreover, it is essential to ensure that the goggles fit perfectly with the helmet, providing a comfortable and secure fit.
In conclusion, snowboarding is an extreme sport that requires the right gear to make the most of your experience. A helmet and goggles are the two most crucial pieces of gear that you should invest in. When choosing a helmet, safety should be the top priority, and it is essential to consider factors such as fit and ventilation options. Similarly, when choosing goggles, the lens type, fit, and ventilation options are crucial to providing clear vision on the slopes. Invest in the right gear, and you are sure to have an amazing experience shredding down the snow-covered slopes.
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