Selecting a bike helmet is an important task because it is necessary for protecting the head from injuries.
Thus, it is imperative that one invests in the right helmet since anything that’s too loose or too tight can lead to serious consequences if something goes wrong. However, have you ever wondered whether helmets are unisex or if they depend on a person’s gender?
If that question bothers you as much as it bothered us, you’re in the right place. Read on to find out the difference between men’s vs. women’s bike helmets!
Are Bike Helmets Unisex?
The simple answer is yes, many bike helmets are unisex. Women’s heads are typically narrower than men’s at the temples and the back of the head, so a women’s specific helmet may provide a more comfortable and secure fit.
Moving on, the way a bike helmet fits someone’s head is essential to the effectiveness of the helmet. Moreover, an ill-fitted helmet could lead to a headache and potential injury.
However, many helmets are designed to fit both genders, so be sure to try on a variety of models to find one that’s right for you.
Men’s Vs. Women’s Bike Helmets
As we mentioned earlier, there are significant differences between helmets for men and women. These come in the form of the shape of the helmet, its size, and its design.
Size And Shape
A number of helmet makers manufacture women-oriented products, which are smaller than the ones made for men.
Furthermore, the amount of hair you have will also influence the helmet that fits you best. In case you have thick, long hair, then in all likelihood, you’ll need a bigger size. However, if you’ve got close-cropped hair or a bob, then a smaller helmet will be needed to fill out the space.
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Ponytail Compatible
Apart from that, the way you tie your hair up also influences the size of the helmet required. If you’ve tied your hair up in a low ponytail, then a helmet that has a higher-placed retention system will be a good fit. This is because a low pony will hang under the adjustable dial behind, whereas a high pony can be threaded through the gap in the retention system.
What’s more, if you have medium-length hair, then cycling in pigtails might be more comfortable since they can be threaded through straps under the ear. Lastly, if you’re experiencing pinching because you’ve got a buzz cut, then getting a helmet with padding inside would be more comfortable.
Unique Color
It’s also worth noting that helmets made for women come in vibrant colors and cool designs, so if you’re looking for something bright, you could consider them.
Can Women Use Men’s Bike Helmet? (And Vice Versa)
Since most helmets are marketed as unisex, a man and a woman can use helmets interchangeably in most cases. However, sometimes a man’s head could be way larger as compared to a woman’s, so it might not be possible all the time. You must also keep in mind that wearing a loose helmet can be quite dangerous since it could even add to injury in case of an accident.
Best Women’s Road Bike Helmet
Specialized Propero Angi 3 MIPS
This sporty helmet exudes superior functionality and provides value for money. Its notable features are:
- Tri-Fix web splitter ensuring a comfy fit
- 4th Dimension Cooling system offers airiness and ventilation
- ANGI crash sensor which senses an impact and alerts a contact on speed dial
- In-built app
- Syncing with GPS-tracking apps like Strava
- MIPS rotational impact protection minimizes any trauma to the head
Apart from the above, this helmet has been designed keeping in mind female cyclists. It has a two-fit, HairPort FLS system that allows the wearer to adjust the height of the dial to allow the pony to hang comfortably.
What’s more, the helmet boasts a clip-on visor that protects the eyes from injury, light drizzle, and excessive heat.
Best Women’s Mountain Bike Helmet
Liv Infinita SX MIPS
Liv is a major bike manufacturer, which is why it knows how to make a good helmet as well. The Liv Infinita SX MIPS is an attractive helmet with a host of features that protect the head. They are:
- Adjustable and removable moto-style visor
- MIPS layer with washable antimicrobial padding inside for maximum protection and hygiene
- Cinch One Pro 360-degree retention system which absorbs impact
- Liteform webbing that provides a comfortable fit
- 20 air vents around the helmet to allow cooling and evaporation of sweat
In addition to these, if you’re tech-savvy like us, you’ll love the Go-Pro mounts above and in the front, which makes it easy to film using the camera. It also has an integrated goggle strap, which helps keep any kind of eye accessories in place.
Lastly, we were impressed by the reflection technology on the outer casing of the helmet, which makes it visible even in dim lighting.
Best Women’s Commuter Helmet
Giro Vasona MIPS
This sleek helmet is great for an everyday bike commute because of its versatile design and superior features, which are:
- Compact shape
- 12 cooling air vents to allow the heat to escape and sweat to evaporate
- Lightweight body
- Roc Loc Sport system keeps the helmet fitted and without extra gaps
- Removable visor
Adding to these, the Giro Vasona is available in many bright color options and is quite easy on the pocket too.
Final Thoughts
The instant a helmet is used for the first time, it begins to wear down, especially if there is constant exposure to sunlight.
Thus, inspect your helmet constantly to check if it is in optimum condition. If you notice a crack somewhere, or if the foam seems compressed or bent, replace it immediately.
In general, though, replacing a helmet every 3-5 years is ideal, and washing the padding when it starts to smell is recommended.
With this, we’ve reached the end of this guide. Take care, and stay safe!
