OUTDATED HELMET? HERE'S WHEN TO TOSS IT

Hey yall, Tanner here. If this is your first time at the Lodge check out our other posts here. 

 

Let’s talk helmets—those unsung heroes that keep your brain intact while you get feel confident to do the often dumb activities we can't live without. Whether you’re taking a little jaunt through the park for the first time and think that rail can't be that bad or bombing down that single track gravel ride your friend towed you in on a rigid road frame, it's easy to take your helmet for granted. Sun, sweat, and daily wear take their toll, and knowing when to say goodbye is key to staying safe (and looking good while doing it). If any of the following hits home, it’s time for an upgrade.

Some Fallen Soldiers. Photos customers have sent us over the last year and my old climbing helmet.

When it comes to inspecting helmet integrity, sometimes it's as easy as checking the integrity of your bike tires or climbing ropes, do they look and feel sound.. and sometimes it's a little more nuanced than that. Luckily, there are a handful of easy rules to remember when it comes to replacing a helmet:

1. Crashed It? Trash It.
Your helmet’s one big job is to absorb impact once. Even if it looks fine after a tumble, the inside could be compromised, meaning it won’t protect as well in the next crash. Don’t risk it—if your helmet’s kissed the ground (and saved your brain), it’s time for a new one.

2. 3-5 Years? It’s Getting Old.
Bike helmets need to be replaced every 3-5 years, ski helmets about every 5-6. Why? Sun, sweat, snow, and the daily grind wear down the materials, even if you’re careful. Think of it like your climbing harness—sure, it looks fine, but do you really want to gamble on it? An easy way to remember is the Olympics is every 4 years - did you buy your helmet before the last Olympics..?

3. Degrading Pads or Straps? Upgrade.
If the inside of your helmet feels like a crusty gym sock, or the straps are fraying like an old climbing rope, you could replace the parts… but let’s be real. Treat yourself to something fresh that’s comfy and secure (and doesn’t smell like a junior high locker room either).

4. Newer = Better.
Helmet tech is always improving. Lighter, comfier, safer, better-ventilated—new models give you more of everything. If you stop getting compliments on your gear from people your age, maybe that's a sign. Plus, a shiny new helmet has been known to improve your overall downhill form, that's straight from the PSIA folks.

5. Can’t Remember When You Bought It? Say Goodbye.
If your helmet predates Instagram, let this be your sign to stop reading and head to the nearest ski or bike shop. Gear doesn’t last forever, and your head deserves better.

Here’s the deal: Your helmet works hard to protect you—don’t let it down by keeping it past its prime. Inspect it, replace it, and then get back out there, looking good and staying safe.

Your brain will thank you.

 

Until next time,

- Tanner

 

Gear seen in this write-up: Boundary MIPS

Back to THE LODGE