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Ski and Snowboarding Helmet Guide
Everything you need to know to purchase the right snow helmet

Certified Protection Isn’t Optional

Hitting the slopes is thrilling, but not without risk. That’s why a certified snow helmet isn’t just smart, it’s non-negotiable. Certification means your helmet has been put through the wringer in labs, meeting hardcore safety standards. 

When you’re choosing your helmet, look for trusted badges like ASTM F2040 or EN 1077. A certified helmet ensures every layer, every strap, every liner has been engineered and stress-tested to take the hits cold-weather shredding throws at you. Drop tests. Tension tests. Sharp-object tests. If it’s certified, it survived them all.

These helmets are built to perform in the conditions you actually ride in. So go ahead push your limits knowing your helmet’s got your back.

A snowboarder riding down the mountain wearing a lightweight snow helmet and goggles
A snowboarder taking a selfie while wearing a Mad Hatter Snow Helmet and Mirrored Ski Goggles
Skiers riding down a trail wearing lightweight ski helmets

Key Safety Standards Every Rider Should Know

ASTM F2040
The gold standard for U.S. recreational snow sports helmets, set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. ASTM F2040 certified helmets have been rigorously tested to keep you safe when things get serious.

What it Covers:

  • Impact attenuation: Helmets face drop tests at multiple speeds and angles, simulating crashes into ice, snow, or trees. Only those keeping G-forces below strict thresholds pass.

  • Retention system strength: Straps are put to the test without slipping or breaking.

  • Roll-off resistance: Your helmet stays put, even in a full-speed tumble. 

Testing happens in sub-zero conditions to replicate real cold-weather crashes. 

EN 1077 (A & B)
The European Union standard for alpine skiing and snowboarding helmets. 

Two Classes:

  • Class A: Maximum coverage (ears, sides, and back). Highest impact and penetration protection- think race/high-speed enthusiasts.

  • Class B: Lighter, ventilated, slightly reduced coverage. Ideal for freestyle & all-mountain riders.

What it Covers:

  • Penetration resistance: Drop tests with pointed objects mimic collisions (poles, branches, ice).

  • Impact absorption: Helmets are dropped onto flat and hemispherical anvils 

  • Retention system : Chin straps and buckles are tested to withstand sudden, high-force impacts.


Bottom Line: Certified helmets aren’t just labels- they’re proof that every layer, strap, and shell is engineered to survive the mountain’s extremes. Ride hard, ride smart, ride protected.

Choosing The Right Fit 

 

Key Steps:

  • Measure your head circumference at the middle of your forehead to know your correct size.

  • Ensure the helmet fits snugly but shouldn't feel painful or push on pressure points.

  • Look for an adjustable (dial) retention system to fine-tune the fit to just the right size. 

  • Ventilation is key to prevent overheating on long days and freezing on cold days. More vents does not necessarily equal superior ventilation. Proper placement and airflow does.

A skier wearing a white snow helmet and toric lens snow goggles
a silouhette of a snowboarder performing a trick

What sets Mad Hatter Helmets apart from the rest:

Mad hatter Ski & Snowboarding Helmets fuses skate-inspired design with mountain-ready tech.  Ultra lightweight snow helmets that do not compromise on safety or comfort. They offer a clean, low-profile look with one of the safest impact systems on the market ERT™.

 

ERT™ Impact Protection, delivers next-gen protection against head injuries. Energy-absorbing impact protection reducing linear and rotational forces caused by impacts.

 

Other things to love

  • One Piece Lightweight  durable in-mold  exterior shell

  • Certification: ASTM F 2040, CE EN 1077:2007 CLASS B

  • Ventilation system integrates with MHW goggles for fog-free lenses

  • Micro-adjustable dial fit system for easy size adjustment

  • Fidlock™ Magnetic chin strap buckle for easy one-hand operation

  • Removable ear pads - audio-chip compatible

  • Beanie compatible

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