As a cyclist, you already know the importance of a good helmet. It’s the one piece of kit that could save your life in an accident, offering protection for the most critical part of your body. But did you know that helmets aren’t designed to last forever? Just like tyres wear out and chains need replacing, your helmet has a shelf life—and it’s shorter than you might think.
Why Helmets Have a Shelf Life
Modern helmets are crafted from advanced materials designed to absorb impacts effectively, but these materials degrade over time. Most cycling helmets are made with expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is excellent at dissipating the energy from a crash. However, prolonged exposure to sunlight, sweat, and general wear and tear can weaken the EPS and other components of your helmet. This degradation is often invisible, meaning your helmet could look fine but no longer provide adequate protection.
The General Rule: Replace Every Five Years
The consensus among helmet manufacturers and safety experts is that helmets should be replaced every five years, even if they haven’t been involved in an accident. This recommendation accounts for the natural ageing of materials and ensures that your helmet is up to date with the latest safety standards and technological advancements.
When to Replace Your Helmet Sooner
While five years is a good general rule, certain situations call for a replacement much sooner:
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After a Crash: If your helmet has been involved in a crash, it should be replaced immediately, even if there are no visible signs of damage. The EPS foam inside the helmet is designed to compress upon impact, and it won’t provide the same level of protection a second time.
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Visible Wear and Tear: Cracks, dents, or a damaged strap are all signs that your helmet’s structural integrity has been compromised.
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Frequent Use: If you’re a daily commuter or a competitive cyclist who uses your helmet heavily, you might find it needs replacing sooner due to increased exposure to the elements and repeated wear.
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Obvious Ageing: If the interior padding is crumbling, the straps are fraying, or the outer shell is faded and brittle, it’s time to invest in a new helmet.
How to Extend the Life of Your Helmet
While helmets are ultimately disposable items, proper care can help them last longer within their safe lifespan:
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Store it Properly: Keep your helmet out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A cool, dry place is ideal.
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Clean it Regularly: Use a mild soap and water to clean your helmet, and let it air dry. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could degrade the materials.
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Inspect it Often: Regularly check your helmet for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Why I Recommend Lazer Helmets
At Cadence Cycleworks, I pretty much stock only Lazer Helmets, and for good reason. As the oldest helmet company in the world, Lazer has a proven track record of innovation, quality, and reliability. Their helmets are designed with durability and safety at the forefront, ensuring that you’re getting a product that stands the test of time—and the elements. I personally have used Lazer helmets since the near beginning of my cycling journey, and their consistent performance has always impressed me. Lazer’s commitment to crafting helmets that meet and exceed safety standards aligns perfectly with my belief that every cyclist deserves the best protection available.
Why Upgrading Matters
Beyond safety, replacing your helmet every few years gives you the opportunity to upgrade to a model with improved comfort, aerodynamics, and ventilation. Advances in helmet technology happen quickly, and newer models often feature lighter materials, better fitting systems, and enhanced safety features like Multi-directional Impact Protection Systems (MIPS) or Lazer's new in house Kineticore Technology
Final Thoughts
Your helmet is a small investment compared to the value of the protection it offers. At Cadence Cycleworks, we believe that every cyclist deserves the best in safety and performance. If your helmet is nearing its expiration date or has seen better days, it’s time to replace it. Visit us in-store or online to explore our range of high-quality helmets from trusted brands like Lazer. Protect your head, ride with confidence, and keep the cadence strong!
