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Kayak Helmets Reviewed
by Damon Z. Sweet
The variety of kayak helmets on the market today is testimony to the necessity of this important piece of equipment. I remember someone bragging to me once they had found a $15 beat-up helmet at a garage sale. I'm thinking, $15 seems like a deal today, but throw in a three week stay in a hospital from a brain concussion because you didn't have adequate protection and it might not seem such a bargain. No, this is one piece of equipment I won't scrimp on.
Besides, what better way to express your attitude on the water than your helmet? Today you can buy anything from a conservative, solid color motorcycle-style kayak helmet to one of those hip, rakish beanie-style one that sits entirely above the ears. Which one is right for you? That's a function of the type of kayaking you do as well as your attitude on function versus fashion.
What to look for:
Remember, the first function is to protect your head so make sure the helmet is made from concussion-resistant polypropylene and has a good helmet retention system (that's the strap). Make sure the inside of the helmet is able to withstand the wear and tear associated with kayaking and stays steady on your head. If you roll or boof a ledge, the last thing in the world you want is to be grabbing your kayak helmet to keep it in place.
The big names in helmets are Shred Ready, Predator Kayak Helmets, J3 Kayak Helmets, Greatful Heads, and Sweet Kayaking. I really like the J3 Freestyle which is designed specifically for aggressive innovative freestyle paddling. Use the freestyle on everything except creeking. This helmet features both carbon fiber and Kevlar for extra support and protection. This is a great helmet, used by many professionals, but I understand the J3 company is currently for sale so its future may be in question.
Sweet Kayak Helmet
Another totally cool helmet is the Sweet Kayak Helmet (sadly, no relation to yours truly). It's on the expensive side, but has some great features and is a terrific all-around helmet. The inside of the helmet is lined with a soft material and holds several cool red flame-shaped pieces of padding that can be moved around anywhere within to create the perfect fit.
While the fastening system is similar to other helmet designs, this helmet has a soft rubber piece that covers the snap to keep it from rubbing or pinching your neck.
The Sweet Kayak Helmet's baseball cap shape is extremely functional, offering both shade from the sun and extra protection for your eyes from spray or water in a roll.
Predator General Lee
An exciting newcomer to the kayak helmet field is the Predator General Lee. Designed like the popular Sweet Strutter, this helmet has eye appeal and, priced at about $70 will prove very popular in the market.
The General Lee is lined with a soft, closed cell foam, has a durable 3 point chin strap and moveable fitting pads. Made to look like a carbon fiber helmet, it's actually composed of high impact Ralvek thermoplastic. It's a practical helmet with practical design and solid performance at a reasonable price.
Which kayak helmet is right for you? Consider safety first, pick a strong helmet that protects you well. Then go for the look, feel and fit that will keep you feeling good and paddling on!
Damon Z. Sweet writes for ActiveKayak.com where you can find great deals, tips and news, information and reviews plus Free Online Lessons, Tips, and Great Kayaking Resources at ActiveKayak.com. This article can be reproduced in full as long as the resource box and live links remain intact. Copyright http://www.activekayak.com.
