Ski helmets

Whether you’re carving fresh corduroy, lapping the park, weaving through glades, or heading into the backcountry, protect your most valuable asset with a ski helmet. Oberson carries a wide selection of helmets that combine safety, comfort, and style. You’ll find lightweight in-mould models, rugged hardshell designs, and advanced features tailored to your skiing style and terrain. Shop top brands, such as POC, Atomic, Giro, K2, Smith, and Sweet Protection online or visit our Laval and Brossard stores.

How to Choose a Ski Helmet?

Fit is the number one consideration when choosing a ski helmet. Whatever your type of skiing, you won’t have fun or be safe without a helmet that fits properly and feels good.

Fit

Start by measuring your head just above the eyebrows using a soft measuring tape, or consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart and measuring instructions (some brands provide specific guidance). When trying on a helmet, it should feel snug without causing pressure points. Shake your head vigorously or move the helmet side to side with your hands; the helmet should move with your head rather than separately from it.

Most helmets can be fine-tuned using an adjustable dial at the back, removable pads, or air adjustment systems. If you already own a pair of goggles, be sure to try them on with your prospective helmet to make sure they’re compatible; there shouldn’t be a gap between the top of the goggles and the helmet.

Construction

Ski helmets are generally built using one of three construction methods: in-mould, hardshell, or hybrid. All certified helmets are designed to protect you from serious impacts, but each type offers different advantages in terms of weight, ventilation, and durability.

  • In-Mould Helmets
    These helmets use an EPS foam liner bonded directly to a thin polycarbonate shell. The result is a lightweight helmet with excellent ventilation. They’re ideal for resort skiing, ski touring, and anyone looking to reduce weight.
  • Hardshell Helmets
    Built with a two-piece construction—EPS foam glued to a separate hard plastic shell—these helmets offer increased durability at a more accessible price point. They tend to be slightly heavier and bulkier but are great for everyday resort use and younger skiers.
  • Hybrid Helmets
    Hybrid designs combine the best of both worlds: a lightweight in-moulded lower section for ventilation and comfort, paired with a hardshell upper section for added protection and durability. These are often found in mid- to high-end helmets and work well for skiers who want lightweight performance without compromising on ruggedness.

Half-Shell and Full-Shell Helmets

  • Half-Shell Helmets are the most common. They cover the head while leaving the ears protected by soft pads, allowing for better comfort and hearing.
  • Full-Shell Helmets offer full ear coverage for added protection from impacts and the elements. They’re popular among racers, kids, and aggressive park riders.

Koroyd

Some high-performance models also incorporate Koroyd, a material made of welded polymer tubes that crumples, which helps disperse energy more evenly than EPS alone. This material offers an extra level of safety and is increasingly used in premium designs.

Safety Certification

Make sure your helmet is certified:

  • ASTM F2040 — The American safety standard for ski helmets.
  • EN 1077 (Class A or B) — The European standard; Class A offers more protection, while Class B prioritizes comfort and hearing.

You’ll find a certification sticker inside the helmet or in the product manual included with the product.

What features to look for in a ski helmet?

  • Ventilation (adjustable in some models) to regulate heat and prevent goggle fog
  • Brim styles to reduce glare and a bit of style
  • Compatibility with audio systems for your shredding soundtrack
  • Magnetic chin buckles for easy fastening with gloves
  • Colours and designs (for those who want to make a fashion statement)

Helmets for Ski Touring

If you’re heading into the backcountry, keep in mind that you’ll be generating a lot of heat on the skin track. Look for a helmet that prioritizes breathability. If you’re spending significant time ski touring (and therefore spending most of your time skiing uphill), you’ll also appreciate a lightweight helmet. Anyone who does ski mountaineering—where ice climbing, rock climbing, or rappelling is thrown into the mix—should consider models dual-certified for skiing and climbing.

Questions?

Not sure which helmet meets your needs or best fits your head? Our in-store team of experienced skiers is here to help. Stop by one of our stores in Laval or Brossard, or contact us online for expert advice.