Probably the most important piece of protective gear is a helmet. Sure it doesn’t look fancy but fortunately, more and more skateboarders are wearing skate helmets. Nowadays helmets are more comfortable than they used to be so hopefully this trend continues.
If you skate street (rails, stairs etc), vert or cruise in traffic you should consider getting a helmet, better safe than sorry. It only takes one hit to ruin your life (and your family’s).
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Triple 8 Gotham
This is my new favorite helmet. After hitting my head while wearing the Thousand helmet I thought it was a good idea to get a new one. I had my eye on the Triple 8 Gotham for a while mainly because of the subtle brim, dial fit system, and comfortable fit.
So far I like it! I love the design but most importantly, it fits just right and the dial button really is a big difference compared to the Triple 8 helmets that only have straps and a buckle.
The Triple 8 Gotham is both ASTM and CSPC certified and comes with Sweatsaver technology which absorbs sweat, better than most helmets. Helmets are bulky and this one is no exception but it is surprisingly light.
The adjustable dial fit system and extra padding make it easy to adjust the fit so it won’t move around while your riding. The Gotham offers lots of ventilation holes to keep your head cool, six on top, two at the back, and two in front. Note that there is also a version available that offers MIPS, these are a lot more expensive and really isn’t needed for skateboarding.
Pick the bigger one if you’re in between sizes. The extra padding and dual fit system will make it easy to adjust its fit. Check Amazon for prices and availability. (affiliate link)
- Dual certified (ASTM & CPSC)
- Subtle brim
- Absorbs sweat
- Comfortable fit and easy to adjust
- Dial fit system
Triple 8 Dual Certified Helmet
If you really want to be safe get a certified helmet. These helmets are tested under extreme conditions and offer the most protection. This doesn’t mean uncertified helmets are unsafe, they just haven’t been tested to get certified. Go for the Triple 8 Dual Certified helmet, it’s not even the most expensive one and they come in many colors.
It comes with a set of fit pads to adjust it to your head size. You can check it out on Amazon but make sure you pick the right size (check out the chart below or the one at Amazon). If you want something different, a Protec helmet is also a good choice (affiliate links).
The only thing I don’t like is the lack of a dial button to adjust the fit, this makes the helmet move around a bit.
- Dual certified: complies with US CPSC Safety Standard for bikes and ASTM F-1492-08 for skateboarding.
- High-density ABS outer shell.
- Easy to buckle.
- Extra set of fit pads (which nobody uses).
- Absorbs sweat.
- Removable liners that can be cleaned.
The straps are pretty easy to buckle and I don’t feel claustrophobic while wearing it. I really dig the matte look but that’s a personal preference, there’s also a glossy version available.
Because of its dual certification, it’s also suitable for riding a bike though I don’t see myself wearing this helmet while riding my mountain bike.
Another thing I really like is the removable liners. You can take them off and clean them, my previous helmet smelled awful. Before you decide to get this helmet make sure the check my sizing guide! Because it lacks a dial button it really needs to fit.
Picking the Right Size – Sizing Chart
This sizing chart is only for the Triple Eight dual certified helmet and the Sweatsaver Helmet. In order to get the optimal protection you really need to measure your head. Get a tape to measure the circumference of your head. Starting in the middle of your forehead and match it with the size chart. The helmet comes with a couple of pads to adjust it even more to your personal preference.
- XS 20.10 – 20.50 Inch (51 – 52 cm)
- S 20.60 – 21.30 Inch (52 – 54 cm)
- M 21.40 – 22.00 Inch (54 – 56 cm)
- L 22.10 – 22.90 Inch (56 – 58 cm)
- XL 23.00 – 24.00 Inch (58 – 61 cm)
Picking the Right Size
They offer 3 sizes; small, medium, and large. and if you are in-between sizes like me, pick the smaller one. Just measure your head as they instruct and you should be able to pick the right one, measure it more than 1 time though, and don’t feel bad if you have a big or small head.
Don’t Feel Awkward Wearing a Helmet
I admit I don’t always wear a helmet but I should. I never hit my head in all those years but it only takes one fall. If someone makes fun of you because you want to stay alive, well that’s their problem. Even pro skaters (and legends) like Tony Hawk and Mike Vallely wear helmets and are actively promoting helmet safety.
Slap Some Stickers on It
If you want to make your helmet look more appealing, slap some stickers on it. I really like the look of the helmet and there’s a wide variety of colors, but you can make it a little bit more unique by adding some stickers. Don’t slap a sticker on the Thousand helmet though, you monster!