Can You Use A Skateboard Helmet For Snowboarding? Safety Guide

The short answer is: No, you generally shouldn’t use a skateboard helmet for snowboarding. While both activities involve helmets for safety, the specific requirements and testing standards differ significantly. Using a skateboard helmet for snowboarding can compromise your safety. This guide will delve into the reasons why.

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Fathoming Skateboard vs Snowboard Helmet Differences

While both skateboard helmets and snowboard helmets protect your head, their design and testing are different. These differences affect how they protect you during a fall.

Impact Protection Skateboard vs Snowboard

Skateboard helmets are mainly designed to protect against single, high-impact falls on hard surfaces. Snowboard helmets, on the other hand, are designed to handle multiple impacts, often at lower speeds, and protect against angled impacts with snow or ice.

• Skateboard Helmets: Usually made with a hard outer shell and an EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam liner designed to crush upon impact. They’re generally certified for single-impact incidents.
• Snowboard Helmets: Designed for multi-impact protection and often feature more coverage, especially around the ears and back of the head. Some also use technologies like MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) to reduce rotational forces during angled impacts.

Coverage Differences

Snowboard helmets typically offer more coverage than skateboard helmets.

• Skateboard Helmets: Focus on protecting the top and sides of the head.
• Snowboard Helmets: Extend further down the back of the head and often cover the ears for warmth and added protection.

Warmth and Ventilation

Snowboarding in cold weather needs helmets that can keep you warm and prevent fogging.

• Skateboard Helmets: Generally designed for warmer weather and better ventilation. They may not provide enough insulation for snowboarding.
• Snowboard Helmets: Have adjustable vents to control airflow and help keep you warm without overheating. Many are designed to work with goggles to prevent fogging.

Durability Considerations

Snowboard helmets are designed to handle the rigors of winter sports.

• Skateboard Helmets: May not be durable enough to withstand the cold temperatures and constant wear and tear of snowboarding.
• Snowboard Helmets: Built with more durable materials and construction to handle the harsh conditions on the slopes.

Examining Helmet Certification Standards Snowboarding

Helmet certification standards are very important. These standards make sure helmets meet certain safety requirements. Different standards exist for different activities.

ASTM Standards

ASTM International develops technical standards. For snowboarding, look for ASTM F2040 certification. This standard means the helmet has been tested for impact resistance, penetration resistance, and retention system strength.

CE EN 1077 Standards

The European Committee for Standardization (CE) sets the EN 1077 standard. This standard is common in Europe. It also covers impact and penetration resistance.

CPSC Standards

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) sets standards for bicycle helmets. Skateboard helmets often meet these standards (16 CFR 1203). However, this standard does not provide the same level of protection needed for snowboarding.

What to Look for on a Snowboard Helmet

Always check the inside of a helmet for a certification sticker. This sticker shows the helmet meets the necessary safety standards for snowboarding (ASTM F2040 or CE EN 1077).

Are Skateboard Helmets Safe For Snow?

No, skateboard helmets are generally not considered safe for snow sports. They don’t meet the specific requirements for snowboarding.

Risk of Using Skateboard Helmet in Winter Sports

• Inadequate Impact Protection: Skateboard helmets may not protect against the types of impacts common in snowboarding.
• Lack of Coverage: They offer less coverage, leaving parts of your head exposed.
• Insufficient Warmth: They don’t provide enough insulation for cold weather.
• No Goggle Compatibility: Skateboard helmets aren’t designed to work with goggles, which can lead to fogging and reduced visibility.

Multi-Sport Helmet Snowboarding

Some helmets are certified for multiple sports. These are called multi-sport helmets.

What Is a Multi-Sport Helmet?

A multi-sport helmet meets the safety standards for more than one activity. It could be certified for skateboarding, biking, and snowboarding.

Things to Look for in a Multi-Sport Helmet

• Multiple Certifications: Check for both skateboard (CPSC, ASTM F1492) and snowboard (ASTM F2040, CE EN 1077) certifications.
• Adjustable Ventilation: Make sure the helmet has adjustable vents for both warm and cold weather.
• Removable Ear Pads: Removable ear pads allow you to customize the helmet for different weather conditions.
• Goggle Compatibility: Ensure the helmet is compatible with snowboarding goggles.

Is a Multi-Sport Helmet Right for You?

If you participate in multiple sports, a multi-sport helmet can be a good option. However, always make sure it meets the safety standards for each sport you plan to use it for.

Pros and Cons Skateboard Helmet Snowboarding

Let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using a skateboard helmet for snowboarding.

Pros

• Cost: Skateboard helmets are often cheaper than snowboard helmets.
• Availability: Skateboard helmets are easy to find in most sporting goods stores.
• Familiarity: If you already own a skateboard helmet, you might be tempted to use it.

Cons

• Compromised Safety: Skateboard helmets don’t provide the same level of protection as snowboard helmets.
• Inadequate Warmth: They don’t offer enough insulation for cold weather.
• Lack of Goggle Compatibility: They aren’t designed to work with goggles.
• Potential Discomfort: Skateboard helmets may not be as comfortable for snowboarding.

Snowboard Helmet Alternatives

If you don’t want to use a skateboard helmet, what are your other options?

Dedicated Snowboard Helmets

Dedicated snowboard helmets are designed specifically for snowboarding. They offer the best protection, warmth, and comfort.

Ski Helmets

Ski helmets are very similar to snowboard helmets. They meet the same safety standards and provide similar protection.

Budget Snowboarding Helmet Options

If you’re on a budget, there are affordable snowboard helmet options available.

• Look for Sales: Check for sales and discounts at sporting goods stores and online retailers.
• Consider Last Year’s Models: Last year’s models are often sold at reduced prices.
• Read Reviews: Read reviews to find helmets that offer good protection at a reasonable price.

Selecting the Right Snowboard Helmet

Picking the right snowboard helmet requires careful thought. A well-chosen helmet is crucial for your safety on the slopes.

Proper Fit

A properly fitted helmet is essential for safety. The helmet should fit snugly but not too tightly. It should sit level on your head, covering your forehead.

• Measure Your Head: Use a soft tape measure to measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows.
• Refer to the Manufacturer’s Size Chart: Use the size chart to choose the correct size.
• Try It On: Try on the helmet to make sure it fits comfortably. It shouldn’t move around when you shake your head.

Features to Consider

• MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System): MIPS can reduce rotational forces during angled impacts.
• Adjustable Ventilation: Adjustable vents let you control airflow.
• Removable Ear Pads: Removable ear pads allow for customization.
• Goggle Compatibility: Make sure the helmet is compatible with your goggles.
• Audio Compatibility: Some helmets have built-in audio systems or are designed to accommodate headphones.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will prolong the life of your helmet.

• Clean Regularly: Clean the helmet with mild soap and water.
• Store Properly: Store the helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Replace After Impact: Replace the helmet after any significant impact, even if it looks undamaged.

Using Skateboard Helmet in Winter Sports – Specific Scenarios

There may be certain unique situations where one might consider using a skateboard helmet, however, these are generally discouraged.

Beginner Snowboarders

Beginner snowboarders might think they don’t need as much protection. But beginners often fall more frequently. A proper snowboard helmet is still crucial.

Warm Weather Snowboarding

Even in warmer weather, a snowboard helmet is still necessary. Skateboard helmets don’t provide the same impact protection.

Park Riding

Park riding involves jumps and tricks. This increases the risk of head injury. A snowboard helmet with advanced safety features (like MIPS) is essential.

Final Thoughts

While it might be tempting to use a skateboard helmet for snowboarding, it’s important to prioritize safety. Skateboard helmets don’t offer the same level of protection, warmth, or goggle compatibility as snowboard helmets. Invest in a dedicated snowboard helmet that meets the necessary safety standards for the best possible protection on the slopes. A skateboard helmet snowboarding safety is compromised due to the skateboard vs snowboard helmet differences. Choose snowboard helmet alternatives and consider multi-sport helmet snowboarding options carefully. Always ensure your helmet certification standards snowboarding are met. Don’t risk your safety by using skateboard helmet in winter sports when budget snowboarding helmet options are available. Understand the impact protection skateboard vs snowboard differences and make an informed decision. Avoid using a skateboard helmet for snow activities because are skateboard helmets safe for snow? The answer is generally no. Consider the pros and cons skateboard helmet snowboarding carefully before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a skateboard helmet for skiing?
A: No, you should not use a skateboard helmet for skiing. Ski helmets are designed to meet specific safety standards for skiing, providing better impact protection and warmth.

Q: How often should I replace my snowboard helmet?
A: You should replace your snowboard helmet every 3-5 years, or after any significant impact, even if it looks undamaged.

Q: What is MIPS, and why is it important?
A: MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a technology that reduces rotational forces during angled impacts, providing an extra layer of protection. It’s highly recommended for snowboard helmets.

Q: Can I wear a beanie under my snowboard helmet?
A: Yes, you can wear a thin beanie under your snowboard helmet for added warmth. However, make sure it doesn’t affect the helmet’s fit. The helmet should still fit snugly and securely.

Q: How do I clean my snowboard helmet?
A: Clean your snowboard helmet with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents. Let it air dry completely before storing.

Q: What are the key features to look for when buying a snowboard helmet?
A: Key features to consider include proper fit, safety certifications (ASTM F2040 or CE EN 1077), adjustable ventilation, removable ear pads, goggle compatibility, and MIPS technology.