Need helmet sizing advice

[GTP]

My head circumference measurement puts me right at the top of one size, and right at the bottom of the next size.

I already drove around for 1/2 hour with the smaller size, just to make sure it doesn't get on my nerves or give me a headache. It doesn't.

I am thinking about ordering the larger size just to see if it is too loose.

Question 1: Do helmets break-in, even a little, over time?
Question 2: Should I consider a balaclava anyway, to keep the inside fresh? (I don't sweat much, but still...)

If answer 1 is Yes, then I probably have the best size already.
If answer 2 is Yes, then maybe the larger size with balaclava would be just right.

:shrug:

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[Must_Tang]

Yes, helmets will break in. The padding will compress slightly over time. Always go with a snug fit - but it should not be so tight as to make you pass out!

 

[GTP]

Will a balaclava affect the ideal helmet size?

 

[Must_Tang]

I guess it would. It depends on the thickness of the balaclava. Best bet would be to get the balaclava you like, then go try on the helmets while wearing it.

 

[Grintch]

Brands, and to a lessser extent models vary in their sizing. So test fitting is the best plan.

I fall right on the medium/large border for many brands. But Bell's run a bit larger, making a medium Bell my helmet of choice.

But if the smaller size works (with a balaclava if you wear one), then going bigger is a bad idea. No headache after wearing it for 30 minutes is a pass (if you were wearing it like at the track, with or without the balaclava).

 

[Must_Tang]

^^^^^^
This. Good point. Different manufacturers kind of build to different head shapes. Some are more oval, some are not.

 

[kz]

Test fit them. Othewise you're setting yourself up for failure.

I made that mistake, ended up buying another helmet next season, this time after test fitting it.

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