Children's Bicycle Helmet
The Most Important Facts About Children's Bicycle Helmets at a Glance
- A bicycle helmet provides effective protection against serious head injuries—whether on a balance bike, while riding a bicycle, in a child bike seat, or in bicycle trailers and cargo bikes.
- The key is the right fit: The helmet must fit well, sit securely, and be adjusted properly.
- When purchasing a helmet, pay attention to size, adjustment system, weight, ventilation, and certification marks.
- Be sure to bring your child along to try it on and get advice from a specialty store.
- The helmet must be replaced after a fall or after 5 years at the latest.
- Your child should always take off their bike helmet at the playground; otherwise, there is an increased risk of injury.
Does the bike helmet fit properly? That's what matters!
When your child is learning to ride a bike or is out on the road with you—for example, in a bike trailer—safety is crucial. A well-fitting bike helmet is an essential piece of equipment, even though helmets are not required by law in Germany. Studies show that a bicycle helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries. However, this is only true if the helmet fits well and is worn correctly while on the road. This guide explains what you should keep in mind when buying and fitting a helmet.
Why should my child wear a bike helmet?
A bike helmet protects your child's head
- while riding a balance bike,
- while riding a bike,
- as a passenger in a bike seat,
- in a bike trailer
- or in a cargo bike.
75% of children between the ages of 6 and 10 regularly wear a bike helmet. This is a good thing, because bike accidents can result in serious head injuries. Children are particularly at risk because they are still learning how to navigate traffic safely. For safety reasons, a helmet is therefore essential when riding a bike. Parents are the best role models here, too, and should lead by example.
Buying a Bicycle Helmet: What to Look For
A bicycle helmet only provides proper protection if it fits correctly. Not every helmet model fits every head shape. For this reason, you should try on the helmet before buying it. Be sure to bring your child with you and, ideally, seek expert advice from a specialty retailer. Here’s what matters when it comes to children:
What is MIPS?
MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. This new protection technology is increasingly found in children’s helmets as well. It allows the helmet to rotate and provides even better protection for the head in the event of a side or oblique impact because it reduces the forces exerted on the brain through a movable inner shell. The additional cost is usually relatively low, so this extra protection can be a sensible choice.
Be Careful When Buying a Used Helmet
Only buy a used helmet for your child if you are certain that it meets the EN 1078 safety standard and has not been involved in a fall or dropped. It’s also important to note that the helmet should not be more than 3 years old, as the material can degrade over time even without having been in a crash.
Safety Standards: What Do the Certification Seals Mean?
You can recognize a high-quality bicycle helmet by the following certification marks:
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European Safety Standard
You can recognize the European safety standard by the EN 1078 mark. It is displayed on every tested bicycle helmet and confirms that the helmet meets specific requirements for impact absorption, stability, and penetration resistance.
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CE Marking
The CE mark indicates compliance with European safety standards.
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GS Mark
The GS mark stands for “Certified Safety,” which exceeds the minimum requirements.
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Ratings by Consumer Organizations
The regular tests and reviews conducted by Stiftung Warentest and ADAC also provide a good comparison.
Is bike season starting? Here's what to do!
Kids grow fast. Falls happen. Check and inspect your child’s bike helmet as regularly as possible at the start of the biking season:
- Does the helmet still fit their head size?
- Does the helmet fit snugly?
- Are there any visible cracks?
- Was the helmet possibly damaged in a fall or did it fall to the ground? If so, it should be replaced, even if there is no visible damage on the outside.
- The plastic can age, so the helmet should be replaced after 3 to 5 years at the latest. Even if there is no visible damage. Signs of wear often include a worn-out inner lining, brittle straps, and a brittle shell. You can usually find the year of manufacture on the sticker under the inner padding.
These Are the Most Common Mistakes People Make When Wearing Helmets
Important Notice Regarding the Playground
Bicycle helmets can be dangerous on climbing frames and playground equipment: Your child’s helmet could get caught on the rungs, or the straps could become entangled and pose a strangulation hazard. Therefore, your child should always take off their bicycle helmet when playing on the playground. Bicycle helmets are also unsuitable for other sports.
Where can you find help and advice?
The best place to go for expert advice is your local specialty store. There, you and your child can choose the right model together and try it on. The staff there will help you adjust the helmet properly.
The local chapters of the German Traffic Safety Association (Deutsche Verkehrswacht) are also a recommended resource.
The police’s traffic safety advisory service also provides guidance to families, often directly in schools and preschools.
You can find an initial overview and further information on the websites of consumer organizations such as ADAC or Stiftung Warentest.
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