Making sure your child wears a bike helmet is one of the safest ways to keep them safe while cycling. But not all helmets are created equal. Parents have been asking themselves if they should get a hard shell or soft shell helmet for their child. Both provide protection, but they are made differently, last differently, and feel differently. Knowing the differences can assist you in making the best decision for your child’s safety.
What is a hard shell helmet?
Hard shell helmets consist of a hard outer shell made of plastic or fiberglass covering an inner foam lining. They are often used in sports such as biking, skateboarding, and snowboarding.
Features of Hard Shell Helmets
- Rigid plastic shell for effective impact resistance
- EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam lining to dissipate shock
- Built to take multiple minor impacts
- Generally heavier than soft shell helmets
- Generally stronger and longer-lasting
- Provides superior protection from high-speed collisions
- Typically utilized for aggressive sports and competitive racing
Advantages of Hard Shell Helmets
- Better Protection—The outer shell distributes the force of impact.
- Longer Lasting—Hard shell helmets endure longer and can withstand more wear and tear.
- Better for High-Impact Sports—Best for BMX racing, skateboarding, and rollerblading.
- Resistant to Outside Damage—The outer shell shields against minor dents and scratches.
Cons of Hard Shell Helmets
- Heavier Than Soft Shell Helmets—Can be uncomfortable if used for extended periods of time.
- Less Breathable—Can trap heat, particularly in warm climates.
- More Expensive—More expensive than soft shell helmets.
What is a soft shell helmet?
Soft shell helmets consist largely of foam padding with no outer hard shell. They are lighter and provide flexibility but less protection against impact than hard shell helmets.
Characteristics of Soft Shell Helmets
- Constructed of thick foam padding with no outer hard shell
- Lighter than hard shell helmets for greater comfort
- Distributes impact once and usually must be replaced after an accident.
- Provides less protection from high-impact crashes
- Typically made for use in activities such as scootering, leisure biking, and playground use.
- More ventilated and breathable
Advantages of Soft Shell Helmets
- Lightweight and Comfortable—Suitable for kids who do not like heavy helmets.
- Affordable—Typically less expensive than hard shell helmets.
- Good for Leisure Use—Suits children who ride at low speeds.
- More Ventilation—Keeps the head cooler in warm weather.
Disadvantages of Soft Shell Helmets
- Less Protection in High-Impact Crashes— Does not have the same hardness as hard shell helmets.
- Shorter Lifespan—Requires replacement upon impact.
- Not Ideal for Extreme Sports—Must not be worn during high-risk activities.
Safety & Impact Protection
Safety is number one when the protection of children is at hand. Hard shell helmets are better at impact protection due to the hard outer cover. The hard shell dissipates impact energy so that less reaches the head.
Soft shell helmets cushion minor hits but fail to give the same protection in extreme crashes. With most high-impact collisions, a hard-shell helmet is safer.
How Helmets Absorb Impact?
Hard Shell Helmets: The outer hard shell distributes the impact force over a bigger area, while the EPS foam within absorbs the rest of the energy.
Soft Shell Helmets: The impact is absorbed directly by the foam, but without the protective outer covering, hence not as effective in severe accidents.
Comfort & Fit
Kids tend to resist wearing helmets if they are not comfortable. Soft shell helmets are light and airy, which makes them more comfortable to wear for longer periods. Hard shell helmets, although heavier, tend to have improved ventilation and comfort padding.
How to Get a Good Fit?
- Adjustable straps to secure the helmet
- Padding inside for a comfortable fit
- Ventilation holes to avoid overheating
- Size options—Select a helmet size that is the same as your child’s head circumference.
Durability & Longevity
Hard shell helmets are durable and longer-lasting, particularly when used often. The hard outer shell is more resistant to wear and tear and is perfect for active children.
Soft shell helmets, however, deteriorate more quickly. Being without a thick outer shell, they are likely to be easily damaged and would require replacement quicker.
Cost & Value
Soft shell helmets are generally more affordable, making them a budget-friendly choice. However, if you have to replace them frequently after impacts, the cost can add up.
Hard shell helmets are more expensive initially but tend to last longer, making them a better long-term investment.
When to Choose a Hard Shell Helmet
Choose a hard shell helmet if:
- Your child rides a bike regularly or at high speeds.
- They participate in activities such as skateboarding, rollerblading, or BMX riding.
- You prefer a helmet that will last longer and absorb more impacts.
- Protection and safety are your most important considerations.
When to Use a Soft Shell Helmet
Use a soft shell helmet when:
- Your child rides only occasionally at low speeds.
- They require a lightweight and easy-to-wear helmet for short distances.
- You prefer an inexpensive option for recreational biking.
Industry Safety Standards
Both hard and soft shell helmets must adhere to safety certifications, including:
- CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) – USA
- EN 1078—Europe
- ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)
- Always ensure certification labels before buying to know that the helmet is up to safety standards.
To Wrap Up
Both hard shell and soft shell helmets have their own advantages, but hard shell helmets are more protective and long-lasting, thus they are the first choice for most children. Soft shell helmets are a comfortable and light option but might not be able to resist high-impact crashes as well.
When selecting a helmet, safety, fit, and comfort should always come first. Regardless of what type you select, make sure your child’s helmet is correctly fitted, conforms to safety standards, and is replaced when necessary.
