Essentials
ESSENTI KIT
AL
HELMETS If you wear a cycle helmet, choose one that fits comfortably and that suits the way you ride
Y
ou don't have to spend a lot of money on a cycle helmet. A helmet is made of inexpensive materials: expanded polystyrene (EPS) with a plastic outer shell, internal padding, and a chin-strap and rear-cradle system to keep it on your head. Cheaper helmets pass the same safety tests as expensive ones (all those featured meet the EN 1708 standard required for sale in the EU). More expensive helmets are usually lighter and better ventilated, however, so they suit more energetic cycling. And they may fit better. Fit is crucial. If the helmet is uncomfortable you won't wear it, and if it's not stable and secure on your head, it won't do its job. Try before buying. Whenever you wear a helmet, wear it properly. The V of the helmet straps should meet beneath your earlobes, and the chinstrap should be snug (room enough for a finger or two underneath) but not tight. Adjust the rear cradle so the helmet won't move about. The brim should be no more than a couple of fingers' width above your eyebrows.
Alpina Urban £49.99 As its name suggests, the Alpina Urban is specifically designed for city cyclists. That's why it doesn't have the ribs and vents of road and mountain bike helmets, offering instead a smoother shape and greater head coverage. There are mesh-covered front vents, so some air can circulate, and there's the usual adjustable inner cradle to tune the fit. A cap-style peak will be useful in the rain, especially for those with glasses. Colours: black or white. Sizes: 53-57, 58-63cm. www.alpina-helmets.co.uk
Bell Ukon £19.99 Proof that you don't need to spend a packet on a helmet. The Ukon's outer shell is taped to the EPS rather than being fused to it (known as 'in mould construction'), but it passes the same safety tests. In terms of features, it has everything you'd want: 17 vents to keep you cool; a visor to keep the weather out of your eyes; and an 'Ergo Dial' adjustment system for getting the right fit. It even has camlock levers to make strap length adjustment easier. Colours: black, blue/silver, titanium. Size: universal (54-61cm). www.madison.co.uk
Proviz Mercury £46.99 The Mercury combines head protection with high visibility: it's bright yellow and the dial at the back that adjusts the cradle incorporates a red LED light. The visor will help keep sun or rain out of your eyes but clips off if you don't want it. Ventilation is good, thanks to 24 vents, so it's fine for faster commuting – or for use on your road or mountain bike at the weekend. Size: universal (55-59cm). www.todayscyclist.co.uk www.cyclescheme.co.uk
37