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When to replace ski helmet?

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Jelle
Posts: 337 - Karma: 715
Hey, I was wondering when I should replace my helmet due to safety. I took a really bad fall 1 month ago skiing the glacier park. I lose balance on a flat down box and slammed my head right on the edge of the box, which caused me to have a little "blackout?" for like 5 secs. i did have a terrible head ache the rest of the day.
Is my helmet unsafe now? I heard something about 1 big hit and it should be replaced
Jan 7 2014 12:55PM
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DP*
Posts: 2872 - Karma: 1,064
just check it out real good and you probably have a minor concussion
Jan 7 2014 1:00PM
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onenerdykid
Posts: 6638 - Karma: 10,532
Your helmet is toast, you need to get a new one.

Without knowing what helmet you have, it is a 98% chance that it is rated for a single impact and therefore it has done its job.

A good rule of thumb is if you take a fall where you say "wow, I'm really glad I was wearing my helmet there" you need to replace it- even if it looks fine. The foam that keeps you safe is now compressed and it will not absorb the same impact again. Furthermore, you should always replace a helmet that is dented or cracked even if it has not sustained a fall.

And ultimately when in doubt, replace it.
Jan 7 2014 1:29PM
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Jelle
Posts: 337 - Karma: 715
Thanks for the advice, any recommendations on helmets? I have looked at both POC Receptor and Smith Maze and Holt, but is one safer than the other or are they all the same?
Jan 7 2014 1:35PM
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brenker
Posts: 3188 - Karma: 71
Might wanna head to the doctor and get your head checked out, head injuries are serious and you dont want to fuck around with concussions (if you in fact had one).

Oh, and get a new helmet.
Jan 7 2014 1:37PM
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onenerdykid
Posts: 6638 - Karma: 10,532
All certified helmets have to pass the same safety certification. Some helmets claim to go above and beyond the current standards, but there is no agreed upon way to measure these safer helmets (the exception are the new FIS approved helmets for Speed events on the World Cup since they have higher safety standards).

I would take your goggles and beanie (if you wear one) into your local shop and try a few on. Helmets (like boots) are all about fit and compatibility. Go find out which one fits your head and goggle/beanie combo.
Jan 7 2014 1:51PM
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cornholio
Posts: 3952 - Karma: 3,057
if you like the fit and style of your old helmet you may try to contact the manufacturer.  i had a friend send a helmet back to smith after a hard impact and he got a discount on his next one. 
Jan 7 2014 4:56PM
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