Choosing the Right Helmet for your Kids
Your guide to selecting the best snow helmets for the little riders
There’s nothing quite like hitting the slopes with your young ones, not least if you yourself love getting to the snow. But their safety is always front and centre and, given the speed some of them tackle runs at, you can’t help but want to wrap them in cotton wool.
The right kids’ ski or snowboard helmet is a large step in the right direction for their safety and your peace of mind. Thankfully, today, finding a helmet they’ll be happy to wear is less of a battle — helmets are lighter, more comfortable and come in a huge range of styles, colours and patterns. The release of visor helmets has also been a massive win for groms.
Our lead helmet and eyewear expert, Jake, recently shared his top tips for kids’ helmets and answered some of the most common questions parents ask.
Do kids need to use a kids-specific helmet, or is an adult ski helmet okay as long as it fits?
Using an adult helmet is fine. If the helmet fits properly — whether it’s an adult, youth or child size — it will provide the required protection. Advances in ski helmet technology mean there’s no longer a compromise between helmet weight and protection, with modern models offering both lightweight construction and advanced safety features.
We sometimes find that children are more comfortable in an “adult” helmet and vice versa for some adults in “kids” helmets. As long as the helmet fits correctly, there’s no difference in the level of protection provided.
My son or daughter is still growing quickly and I’ve seen helmets with a larger size range. Are these less protective?
No. As long as the helmet fits snugly when tightened using the adjustable BOA system, there’s no disadvantage to choosing a helmet with a wider size range.
Fit is critical. When purchasing a helmet, it shouldn’t be loose even at its smallest adjustment. Helmets aren’t something kids can “grow into” — they need to fit properly from day one to be protective.
How often should I replace my kid’s helmet?
We recommend replacing ski and snowboard helmets every five years, or after any major crash — and certain minor ones too. If the helmet starts to feel tight on your child’s head, it’s also time for a replacement.
If the helmet uses EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), it should be replaced after any impact, even a relatively minor one. EPP (Expanded Polypropylene) helmets are designed to withstand multiple minor impacts, but should still be checked carefully for damage. If you’re unsure which type your helmet is, check the manufacturer’s website. When in doubt after a fall, replacing the helmet is the safest option.
Can I buy a second-hand ski helmet?
As kids grow out of helmets quickly, second-hand options can be tempting. While a well-cared-for helmet isn’t automatically unsafe, understanding its history is essential.
- Check the helmet for marks or signs of damage — inside, outside and on the fittings
- Look for any parts that may have been replaced
- Ask whether it’s been involved in any falls and how old it is
If the helmet’s history is unclear, it’s best not to purchase it.
My child has outgrown their helmet. How can I sell or dispose of it?
If the helmet is in good condition, less than five years old and hasn’t been involved in any crashes, second-hand marketplaces or local ski markets can be a good option. Charity shops may be reluctant to accept helmets, but it’s worth checking locally.
Disposing of helmets is more challenging. At present, there are limited helmet recycling options in Australia. Some small components may be recyclable depending on your local council. Salomon has announced a recyclable helmet, expected to become available in Australia in 2025.
We only ski once a year — can my child ski in their bike or horse-riding helmet?
In general, no. Bike and horse-riding helmets are designed for different types of impacts and do not meet ski safety standards.
If you’re looking for a visor-style option, helmets like the Orka Visor Helmet are designed specifically for snow sports and can help eliminate goggle-related issues for younger riders.
What safety features should a kids ski helmet have?
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is available in many kids helmets and provides added protection against rotational impacts. Even if children aren’t skiing fast or on advanced terrain, busy resorts increase the risk of collisions.
EPP helmets are generally more robust than EPS options and can be a good choice for kids.
Choosing a kids ski or snowboard helmet: top tips
- Choose a helmet with an adjustable BOA system to help dial in the fit.
- Make sure the helmet fits securely on the smallest setting.
- Let your child choose a design they like — they’re far more likely to wear it.
- Check the helmet’s weight; lighter helmets are often more comfortable for all-day wear.
- If goggles are an issue, visor helmets can be a practical alternative.
Kids & youth ski helmet sizing
Helmet sizing varies by brand, and different models can fit quite differently. You can find the relevant size chart for each helmet directly in the product description to help ensure the best possible fit.
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