How To Buy A Rock Climbing Helmet

This is why you need a rock climbing helmet.

Even the most experienced rock climbers need the protection of a rock climbing helmet, as you can see – ouch. Rock climbing helmets are not only designed to protect you from falls and crashes, but also from falling rocks, ice and other debris. You might be surprised at what can come tumbling down the mountain side and give you a bump on the head, (the guy in front of you for a start).

How To Buy a Rock Climbing Helmet

So, what are the important characteristics of a rock climbing helmet? How do they differ from, say, a cycling helmet or a skiing helmet? Let’s take a look at the most important features.

Rock Climbing Helmet Construction – rock climbing helmets are made from high impact materials on the outside, with padded liners for comfort. Shells are generally manufactured from either fiberglass, plastic or carbon. The fiberglass and carbon helmets will generally absorb the energy from a thud by breaking, whereas plastic ones are designed to absorb the energy by transferring it to a harness system built inside the helmet. Whichever you choose, rock climbing helmets need to be made from very sturdy stuff, much stronger than say a bicycle helmet.

Rock Climbing Helmet Fitting – any helmet can only work to the best of its ability if it fits well and is securely fastened.  The front of rock climbing helmets are quite low to protect the forehead, and although the fit needs to be snug you may also want to allow space for a balaclava or a lamp. When the straps are fastened correctly they should form a “Y” shape around your ears and there shouldn’t be slackness anywhere, especially not in the chin strap.

Where to Buy a Rock Climbing Helmet – unless you are very experienced and know exactly which helmet will fit you, you really need to go to a specialist sports store to buy your rock climbing helmet. That way you can have some expert help with the fitting, and you will also be able to compare lots of styles and designs. Just remember that your rock climbing helmet needs to be sturdy, it needs to allow for extras like a headlamp, but it also needs to be quite lightweight and comfortable, you might be wearing it for a long time and it really can make a big difference to your climb.

Other Important Rock Climbing Equipment

Of course, to keep yourself really safe you’ll need a great rock climbing helmet, but you’ll need some other stuff too . . . take a look at this, he’s an expert who really knows his onions!

As well as a few good tips and techniques to help you get started.

Happy (and safe) Climbing