How to Choose a Climbing Helmet

<< Back

Climbing season is here. Yosemite, with it's long great traditional climbs and big walls, is perfect right now.  Heading out to the great cliffs will undoubtedly be fun but it's crucial to stay safe while climbing.  One of the best ways to protect yourself is to wear a helmet. 

There are two different style of helmets- foam interior helmets and harness suspension helmets.

Foam helmets crush permanentyl to absorb the blow of an impact.  These helmets are light weight and nice to wear but are not very durable.

Harness suspension helmets are ade of a thick outer shell and have a webbing interior.  They dent upon impact.  They are much more durable but heavier.  

Some Helmet Criteria-

Fit: The helmet must should rest properly on your head. Modern helmets have a number of straps that make it adjustable. Some models come in different sizes. Make sure your helmet fits as per the manufacturer's suggestions.

Ventilation: The walls in Yosemite can get warm during the summer and even in cooler weather, you can cook in the sun. Having vent slots on the helmet can help significantly with the heat. There is a trade off as more vents offer less protection.

Weight: Heavier helmets offer more protection and durability. Lighter models can be nicer to climb in but take fewer impacts before they break. Know what kind of climbing you will be doing- trad routes, big walls, alpine climbing, and cragging can each have a different type of helmet.

Wear and helmet and be safe out at the cliffs!  Check out what your local Touchstone gym has to offer for climbing helmets.

<< Back

Tags: climbing helmets