When practicing our favourite sports, we realize that certain things have changed considerably over the last thirty years, specifically when it comes to the use of helmets. Recent statistics on concussions in sports such as cycling, skiing or professional football generated many debates. The idea of using helmets has gradually made its way in the regular practice of cycling, a means of locomotion becoming more and more popular in Canada, especially in urban areas. Helmets are also becoming quite popular on ski slopes, both for their protection purposes and to keep heads warm, since most ski helmets are now trimmed with warm fabric.
Although it’s getting easier to get the idea of wearing helmets across children’s mind, it is still difficult for earlier generations to be convinced of head trauma’s dangers. However, if a parent is wearing a helmet when practicing different sports, the battle should be easily won and chances are that the children will want to do the same.
Cranial Injuries: Take Them Seriously!
At birth, the human skull is made of 45 bones that will weld together to end up in 29 bones in adulthood. Those thick bones protect the brain: Inside the skull, it is bathed in the cerebrospinal fluid contained by three membranes called meninges, which allow the brain to float smoothly. In addition to the severe consequences of a skull fracture, if the brain hits the cranial wall, major injuries such as stretching or compression of the brain tissue, haemorrhage, and many other complications can occur. If death can be prevented, the consequences of a head injury, such as loss of mental faculties, personality alterations and emotional disturbances could last a lifetime. Then why are we compromising our health for a matter of style? That’s ridiculous.
In order to prevent these irreversible consequences, the use of helmets is the most appropriate solution. It is very important to know that helmets need to be replaced after an impact. Even though it does not show any signs of damage, it won’t be as effective as it should be and the protection cannot be guaranteed.
Better Safe Than Sorry
When choosing your helmet, it is crucial to try it on in store as efficient protection requires a good fit. In order to protect the frontal and occipital lobes, the helmet must be straight on your head. You should be able to swallow and speak with ease, without the strap under your chin being too loose. In no circumstances should the helmet lean forward or backward on your head. If it’s comfortable, well-fitted and good looking, you know you’re good to go!
Polyform Keeps You Safe With CSA Certified Helmets
Ecological, lightweight and high-performing, expanded plastics are a component of choice for helmets. With its shape-memory properties, expanded polypropylene allows the helmet to get back to its original shape without breaking after an impact. Polyform manufactures and develops its own product components for cycling, skiing, hockey, figure skating and more helmets. All of them are certified CSA, ASTM or CPSC. Our helmets are made in Canada and designed to ensure an optimal protection: who can top that.
In addition to protecting the most vulnerable part of our body, helmets are increasingly lighter and do not cause any loss of comfort. It gets hard to find reasons not to wear one…
When we love a sport, we hope to enjoy it for a long time and as often as possible. If you practice it safely, the only permanent desirable consequence is the fun you’ll have!