Bicycle Helmets How Long Do They Last
Even if a helmet is not used it will decompose beyond a safe state after 5 years.
Bicycle helmets how long do they last. How long do bike helmets last. Helmets built prior to the 1980s may have a nostalgic place in the cycling world but they should be replaced. Since 2003 helmets have been available that are actually certified to skateboard or ski standards as well as the cpsc bicycle helmet standard. The materials used in older helmets no longer meet the safety standards and do not provide the shock protection needed in a serious crash.
We also need to check it for damage remember that even though it should last five years. It is going to biodegrade making the helmet less effective in the case of an accident. How long does it last. So how long do bicycle helmets last.
However loss of your helmet s credibility may be determined by factors such as exposure to solvents chemicals uv light and accidents. Avoid using chemicals or petroleum based solvents for cleaning and maintaining your helmet as they can tamper with your lid s structure. Now we know we want a helmet that is younger than five years old has not been crashed and has been stored correctly. They cite data from an mea forensic study in 2015 that found that the foam liners of used but not crashed helmets retained their performance over many years with some the helmets tested being 26 years old.
Our specialized helmets are made of styrofoam. Although the snell foundation recommended replacing your helmet every 5 years some manufacturers recommend every 3 5 years. How long should a bicycle helmet last. If you ride a bike and wear a helmet you may have heard at some point perhaps for vague reasons having to do with foam degrading or maybe corrosion from salt or sweat that helmets expire.
Extending the life of your helmet. If you are using a bicycle helmet for skateboarding or any other sport where you crash regularly see our writeup on helmets for the current season for more info on that. Styrofoam is an extremely strong and durable material that will break down over time. So what do you think this is going to do inside of your helmet.
If you crash on the way home after buying it you have to head back and buy a new one.