How To Fit a Bike Helmet

If you’re reading this how-to article, congratulations! You’ve not only made a commitment to protecting your head by wearing a helmet, you also know that fitting a helmet makes all the difference. That’s right, the proper fit for a bike helmet ensures you get all the protection the lid can offer. It’s also worth noting that an improper fit can make things worse, exacerbating the results of an unfortunate impact. To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, let’s review what a good helmet fit looks like and cover some simple steps to find the perfect fit.

How Should a Bike Helmet Fit?

The helmet should fit snugly on your head, not too tight or too loose. You can test the fit by shaking your head. Ideally, the helmet shouldn’t move much in any direction. The straps should lie flat on your head, and the chin strap should have just enough slack under your chin so that when you open your mouth wide, you pull the helmet down tight against your head. Fortunately, it only takes a few steps to ensure your helmet is ready for your ride.

Step 1 - Find Your Helmet Size

Take a tape measure and measure your head’s circumference, laying the tape across your forehead and just above your ears. With that measurement, you can find which size helmet you need under the “Size & Weight” specs for each Rudy Project helmet. Fall somewhere in the middle of two sizes? Go with the smaller helmet. If you’re in a bike shop, go ahead and try on the various sizes to find one that fits you best.

Step 2 - Dial In the Fit

Put the helmet on, making sure it’s level. The front of the helmet should rest on your forehead. At the back of the helmet, find the dial for the retention band. Twist the dial to tighten the band around your head until the helmet feels snug, but not tight, on your head. Note: Adjust the retention dial whenever you wear a cap or bandana underneath the helmet, or cut your hair substantially — like going from a full head of hair to a buzz cut.

Step 3 - Adjust the Straps

Starting with one ear, adjust the two side straps so that they come together just underneath your ear. Start with the rear strap, then adjust the strap in front of your ear. Both should lie flat against your head with no slack between the junction underneath your ear lobe and the helmet. Repeat with the other ear.

Step 4 - Fit the Chin Strap

Take out any slack in the strap between the “Y” junctions under each ear and the chin buckle. Then click the chin straps together and pull the excess through the buckle. Stop when there’s an index finger’s width between your skin and the strap. How do you know when the fit’s just right? When opening your mouth wide, the helmet should pull down tightly on your head. If you have extra strap length hanging off the buckle, secure it underneath the rubber band on the strap.

Step 5 - The Fit Check

When your helmet’s fitted correctly, you should see barely the front brim of the helmet when you look up. You shouldn’t be able to move the helmet off your forehead or forward over your eyes by more than an inch. If you can, the helmet is too loose.

Check your fit regularly; straps wear out and stretch over time. With Rudy Project’s Quick Strap Change feature on selected helmets, you can quickly replace worn straps and ensure that you always have the proper fit for optimal comfort and protection.

Rydon Slim Endurance Perfect!

Great fit for my narrow face and able to customize the distance from my cheeks with the adjustable nosepad. Photochromic lenses are fantastic, as my long distance runs start before the break of dawn and last thru the morning sunrise. More comfortable and higher quality than my OLD Oakleys and highly recommended!

Excellent for recreational riding, training and racing!

The Rudy Project Nytron helmet is an excellent choice in all conditions and types of riding. The combination of optimal airflow, aerodynamics, and lightweight comfort are definitely winning feature for cyclists, especially those who spend long hours on the road. The added focus on safety is a huge plus, particularly for those riding in traffic-heavy environments or encountering unwanted road hazards. It is designed with both performance and comfort in mind, which is key for recreational riders, or those training and racing.

A Perfect Blend of Style, Comfort, and Performance

I recently used the Rudy Project - Wing Helmet during the Ironman 70.3 in Goa, and it truly impressed me. Right from the start, the helmet’s sleek design caught my attention, giving off a professional, aerodynamic look. It’s lightweight and fit comfortably, which was important for a long event like this. Despite wearing it for hours, I didn’t feel any discomfort, which speaks to its well-thought-out design and quality materials.

In terms of performance, this helmet delivered on its promise. The shape is crafted to reduce wind resistance, helping me maintain speed with less effort. Even though it’s built for aerodynamics, I was pleasantly surprised by the ventilation. It kept me cool enough despite Goa’s heat and humidity, though it can feel a bit warm on extremely hot days.

The helmet also comes with a clear visor that provides great visibility and shields your eyes from harsh sunlight. It’s easy to adjust or remove, making it versatile depending on personal preference. Overall, the Rudy Project - Wing Helmet is an investment, but for anyone serious about cycling or triathlons, it’s a fantastic choice that combines style, comfort, and performance.