When it comes to climbing, safety is your top priority. A helmet can help protect your head from potential impacts and falls, so having the right one is a must. But with so many options on the market today, how do you know which type of helmet to get for climbing? Read on to learn more about the different types of helmets available and which one is best for your next climbing adventure.
For helmet to get for climbing, choose a certified climbing helmet with a hard shell and foam lining for protection against falling rocks and impacts.
Which Type Of Helmet To Get For Climbing | The Essentials
Half-Shell Helmets
Half-shell helmets are designed for various activities, including climbing, mountaineering, and Via Ferrata. These helmets have a rounded shape with a hard outer shell covering the top portion of your head, exposing your face.
They provide good protection from falling rocks or debris but may need to offer more protection if you plan to tackle more challenging routes.
Full-Face Helmets
Full-face helmets are designed for those who plan on tackling more extreme climbs or alpine routes where there is a greater risk of falling or impacting something hard, like a rock wall or even ice.
These helmets completely enclose your head with a hard outer shell and often feature vents to keep you cool while you climb. Full-face helmets also typically offer better protection against side impacts than half-shells due to their larger size and coverage area.
Lightweight Helmets
If you’re looking for something lightweight but still protective, then lightweight helmets might be just what you need. Lightweight helmets provide all the same coverage as traditional full-face or half-shell helmets.
Still, they are made with lighter materials, such as polycarbonate shells and foam liners, making them much easier to carry around when climbing.
These lightweight options are great for those who don’t want any extra bulk but still want reliable protection from any potential impacts.
Also Read: What To Wear When Is Rock Climbing?
Hard Shell Helmets
Hardshell helmets are one of the most common helmets used for climbing. These are usually constructed from ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) plastic or polycarbonate and feature an outer shell that covers a thin foam interior.
The foam interior helps absorb the impact if you should hit your head against something while climbing. Hardshell helmets also provide good ventilation, making them comfortable in warm weather.
However, since these helmets are typically heavier than other styles, they may not be suitable for long climbs.
Foam-Only Helmets
If weight is your primary concern when choosing a helmet, then a foam-only helmet might be the right option. These helmets are lightweight and comfortable but don’t provide as much protection as complex shell models.
They also don’t offer any ventilation, so they can get quite warm if you’re doing strenuous activities in hot temperatures.
Hybrid Helmets
Hybrid helmets offer a great compromise between hard shell and foam-only models for those who want the best of both worlds—protection and lightness.
These helmets have an outer layer of hard plastic that provides more protection than foam alone while still being lightweight enough for long climbs or hikes in hot temperatures. Hybrid helmets also feature better ventilation than either hard shell or foam-only models.
Also Read: How To Measure Your Head For a Climbing Helmet?
Do Most Climbers Wear Helmets?
Climbing can be dangerous, and with so many risks involved, it makes sense that most climbers choose to protect their heads by wearing helmets.
It’s something that is recommended for all levels of climbing. Whether in the beginner stages or taking an expert-level route, wearing a helmet gives extra peace of mind, especially if you run into any unexpected obstacles along the way.
For certain types of climbing (usually more high-level routes), climbers may even wear more specialized protection, such as full-face helmets. Using the right equipment helps keep everyone safe and sound while enjoying life in the vertical world.
Also Read: When Do You Need a Helmet For Mountain Climbing?
Conclusion
No matter which type of helmet to get for climbing you plan on, wearing a helmet is essential to protect yourself from hazards like falling rocks or debris.
Many types of helmets are available today – ranging from full-face models to lightweight versions – so you must choose one that meets your specific needs and provides adequate protection while still being comfortable enough to wear all day long!
With this guide in hand, it’s time to pick the perfect helmet for your next climbing adventure!
