While there are many stylistic and functionally different options in kayak helmets today, the “half-cut” variety have become the most popular. It is true that “half-cut” helmets are usually more comfortable and easier to put on but they require proper adjustment, at least initially. This method will instruct the kayaker on the most efficient way to put on a half-cut whitewater kayak helmet.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 15 seconds
Here’s How:
- Pick up the helmet and place it on your head.
- Pull the helmet down so that the padding of the lining is pulled up down against the head.
- If the helmet has a support that fits at the base of the scull near the neck, ensure it is lined up properly. Adjust as necessary.
- Let the straps hang down like a triangle around the ears. If your ears don’t fit though the straps of if the straps are misaligned, adjust them by using the different loop mechanisms which the straps feed through.
- Grab both sides of the straps and buckle the helmet around and under your jaw.
- Take the loose end of the strap and pull it to tighten the helmet onto your head. Be sure that the helmet is not too tight. You should be able to speak without any problem and the helmet shouldn’t be so tight that it hurts.
- With the helmet securely fastened, grab the helmet and wiggle it on your head. There shouldn’t be any play between your scull and the lining of the helmet.
- If the helmet is too tight or there is wiggle room between the helmet and your head then you should use a different helmet.
What You Need
- Whitewater Kayak Helmet
