Ski helmets proven to reduce head injuries

Every ski trip we go on I seem to notice more and more people wearing helmets. On our most recent trip we took along several friends and by the end of the trip two non helmet wearers had been converted and purchased helmets in the local ski shop in La Plagne Centre. However there are still some people that believe, much like some do about bike helmets, that ski helmets can do more harm than good.

There has now been a study that proves that helmets reduce skiers’ and snowboarders’ risk of head injury by 35 percent and don’t increase the risk of neck injury.

Some people believe that helmets may increase the risk of neck injury when skiers and snowboarders fall, particularly children, who have a greater head-to-body ratio.

The Ski-C girls in the now obligatory helmets

In this study, Canadian researchers analyzed the findings of 12 studies conducted in Asia, Europe and North America and concluded that helmets were beneficial.

“The use of helmets significantly protects against head injuries among skiers and snowboarders,” wrote Brent Hagel, of Alberta Children’s Hospital, and colleagues. “Risks of head injury can be reduced by 35 percent.”

“Based on this evidence, we encourage helmet use,” they concluded.

The study was published Feb. 1 in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

Data from numerous countries suggest that head injuries account for up to 19 percent and neck injuries up to 4 percent of all ski and snowboard injuries reported by ski patrols and emergency departments. Among skiers and snowboarders, traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of death and serious injury.

Reviews of our helmets – Red Avid and Giro Encore 2. Buy ski helmets at Snow and Rock.