Ski Racing Helmets & Chinguards

What is an FIS-approved helmet, and why do I need one?

FIS approved ski helmets have been rigorously tested and are certified by the independent body that governs ski racing events to meet their racing standards for safety. If you’re interested in ski racing, then you absolutely need an FIS approved helmet – you won’t be allowed to race without one in most competitions. Even if you aren’t interested in ski racing, an FIS approved helmet is worth the investment because it guarantees your helmet meets a high standard for safety.

FIS approved helmets will be marked with an FIS sticker to show you that it’s race-approved and safe. Another marking to look out for is the European CE mark, which indicates that the helmet meets the European standards for health and safety. Unmarked helmets may not protect you in the event of a crash – you can read all about choosing a compliant helmet in our ski helmet safety blog.

Are chinguards universal or brand-specific?

Skiing chinguards are usually manufacturer specific and are designed to match the helmet. This ensures a secure fit without risking your chin guard coming off. Some racing helmets are sold with the chinguard included, whilst other brands sell their chinguards separately.

How do I find the correct helmet size?

To find the right size ski helmet, measure the circumference of your head. You can do this using a flexible dressmaker’s tape measure, or if you don’t have one, you can use a piece of string and measure that with a ruler.
Measuring the largest point of your head, usually just above the eyebrows, wrap the tape measure or string around your head to find out the circumference of your skull in cms. Use this measurement to find the correct size range.

Do ski helmets work with any brand of goggles?

Most popular brands of ski goggles are designed to fit snugly with any helmet, but sometimes incompatibilities between brands will mean helmets and goggles don’t quite fit the way they’re supposed to. A good-fitting pair of goggles should sit comfortably below your helmet with no gap or a very small gap, but without your helmet pressing your goggles into your nose. We advise buying a helmet and goggles together to check the fit.

What are the official requirements for helmets and chinguards in race events?

For racing, you’ll need an FIS approved helmet. Crash helmets are compulsory, and you won’t be allowed to compete without one. Chin guards may be optional in certain speed disciplines, but will normally be a requirement for slalom to protect your face from gate impacts. Helmets cannot be modified in any way as this could provide an aerodynamic advantage or reduce the effectiveness of the helmet in a crash.