SHRED: Guide to maintaining ski and snowboard helmets

The helmet is the most important protective equipment you bring on the slopes. Like all technical equipment, it requires proper care, regular inspection and replacement at the right time for optimal protection.

This guide combines engineering insight from SHRED, co-founder Carlo Salmini, experience from Olympic champion Ted Ligety and knowledge from safety standards and field testing.

1. Why helmet care matters

A helmet is not a permanent piece of equipment, but a safety system built from materials that age, compress and break down over time. Protection depends on the integrity of the materials, the right fit and the absence of significant impacts.

2. Inspection

A helmet must be free of cracks, structural damage, degraded foam and faults in the straps. Check the shell for cracks, deep scratches or dents. All helmets are designed to handle one significant collision – even if the shell looks undamaged, the inner foam may be compressed. Check the buckle and chin strap for damage.

3. Assessment: wear, materials and lifespan

Most helmets should be replaced every three to five years, even without a fall. UV radiation weakens plastic, temperature fluctuations stress the materials, sweat breaks down adhesives and padding loses volume. Small, superficial marks are normal; cracks, deep nicks, crushed foam or problems with the straps are not.

4. Fit and fastening system

The helmet should sit without sideways movement and with even pressure all around the head. The chin strap should be snug but comfortable.

5. Care and maintenance

Use mild soap, lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Avoid solvents, strong cleaning agents and abrasive products. Let the helmet air-dry in the shade. Replace the inner padding when it becomes compressed or loose. Store the helmet cool, dry and protected from sunlight and heat.

6. When you should replace the helmet

Replace the helmet if there are cracks or dents, after a significant impact, if the foam is crushed or damaged, if the straps or buckles are worn, if it no longer fits snugly, or when it is more than three to five years old.