Ski and snowboard helmet fit guide

 You don't have to ski the trees or catch big air on your board to appreciate a helmet. In fact, all of us skiers and riders can enjoy the added safety and warmth that a snow helmet provides. You gotta admit that helmets save lives and injuries.
Helmet sizing is very simple. The sizes are determined by how many centimeters around your head is.
Take a tape measure and measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows. That's your helmet size.

It is VERY important to keep in mind that not all helmets fit the same. Head shape is a factor in your helmet selection as well. In most cases, your helmet will fit if you get the right size, but there are circumstances where the helmet will not fit due to the shape of the helmet and the shape of your head. In cases like this, you may have to try on a few different models to find the right one.
For Kids it is very important to not add too much to account for growth. A helmet that is too loose is not going to be safe and can actually be dangerous. Kids' heads grow relatively slow so get one that fits. The only time you may want to bump up a size is if their head is right in-between sizes. Then you can select the larger size.

MEASURING FOR THE PERFECT FIT

Measuring Tape
To determine the correct size, wrap tape around head, just above eyebrows. Note your size at point of overlap. This is your helmet size.

Putting On Helmet -
Align the front rim of the helmet above your eyebrows. Hold the straps on both sides and roll the helmet over the back of your head.

Check For Gaps -
Pads should be flush against your cheeks and forehead. The back of your helmet should not touch the nape of your neck

Roll Test -
With the chin strap fastened your helmet should be snug and comfortable. Try to roll your helmet off your head. If the skin on your forehead moves, you have a good fit. 

Proper Use -
Be sure your helmet is fitting above your eyebrows and that your goggles fit your face while wearing the helmet as shown.

Conversion Table

Helmet cleaning and maintance

We recommend cleaning your helmet shell with mild soap and water only. The helmet may be damaged and rendered ineffective by petroleum products, cleaning agents, paint, adhesives and the like, without the damage being visible to the user.

To clean the padding inside we recommend using a very mild soap and a sponge and doing a "spot" cleaning. Do not try to remove the liner to clean it and never put your helmet in the dishwasher, washing machine or any other mass cleaning appliance. Do not use ANY harsh chemicals!

Snow Helmets Components
The shell, or outer layer of the helmet, is a rigid surface that protects the head against sharp objects, knocks and abrasions. It also helps spread impact energy over a larger portion of the helmet.
The inner liner is typically made from EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam, the stuff that looks like styrofoam. It's designed to absorb impact and prevent brain injuries.
Important: In a hard fall, the liner foam can get compressed, which you may or may not be able to see. A helmet should always be retired and replaced after a fall.

Types of Construction
In-mold helmets are made by molding the shell and the shock-absorbing EPS foam in one molding process. They are sleek and much lighter than injection-molded helmets.
Injection-molded helmets use an EPS foam bonded to a separate shell, usually made of high-impact ABS plastic. These helmets offer more durability against everyday knocks and falls, but similar impact protection.
Some helmets have detachable ear pads and liners for adjustable warmth in different conditions.
Interior Sizing Pads
Any combination of pads can be used to fine-tune the helmet's fit.
Chinstrap/Buckle
The chinstrap needs to fit back against the throat so it will not come off when it is impacted. The strap should fit snugly, but be loose enough for you to be able to chew food without feeling choked or pinched. Always fasten the strap before riding.

Choose Your Features
 Venting
Vents bring cool air in and sweaty, heated air out. Some helmets have removable plugs, which means you need to take your helmet off to adjust the airflow. More desirable are helmets with adjustable vents. With the flip of a lever you can instantly fine-tune your airflow level and not interrupt your ride.
Audio
Some helmets come with built-in speakers that let you turn your helmet into high-tech central for your MP3 player, cell phone or walkie-talkie. For others, just add ear pads and you're ready to rock.
Liners
Detachable ear pads and drop liners let you customize how much warmth you need.  Removable liners can be washed, which is nice after a bomber day on the mountain.
Goggle Compatibility
More of a goggle issue. You want to have the foam of your goggle still touching you face all the way around.
Hard Case
A hard storage/travel case (which is usually sold separately) helps keep your helmet looking shiny and new.

 Snow Helmet Glossary of Terms

ABS
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a high impact plastic.
EPS
Expanded polystyrene, the stuff that looks like Styrofoam®.
Injection molded
EPS foam is bonded to a separate shell.
In-mold
Molding the shell of helmet and the shock absorbing foam in one molding process.
Venting
The holes in the helmet that allow air to flow in and out.