How do you choose the right size bike helmet?

Written by Nathalie

Edited on

19 March 2026

·

07:43

How do you choose the right size bike helmet?

A bike helmet only protects your head well if the size is right. Your helmet shouldn't pinch or move. In this article, you can read how to measure your head circumference in order to choose the right size. We'll also explain how to adjust your bike helmet. That way, you can safely get on the road.

Choose bike helmet size

Whether a bike helmet fits well, depends on your head circumference and how you adjust it. Ask yourself the following:

  • What's your head circumference?
  • How do you adjust your bike helmet?
View all bike helmets
Choose bike helmet size
Bike helmet size head circumference

What's your head circumference?

Before you choose a bike helmet, measure your head circumference. Follow these 4 steps:

  1. Get supple measuring tape
  2. Wear your hair like you do normally. Have glasses? Keep them on.
  3. Pull the measuring tape over the roundest part of the back of your head to the front via the sides. On both sides, it should be just above your ears and 1cm above your eyebrows. Don't pull the tape too tight.
  4. Read the number of centimeters and choose a bike helmet that suits this.

Don't have supple measuring tape? Use a rope. Put your finger on the place where the ends meet and measure that with a ruler. You can then see the number of centimeters.

Adjust bike helmet dial

How do you adjust your bike helmet?

Once you have your bike helmet, you can adjust the size precisely to your head. With the dial on the back, you can make the bike helmet tighter or looser until it fits well. A helmet fits well if you can't easily slide it around. Even when the closure is open. Move your head from left to right and up and down. Does the helmet stay in place and isn't it too tight? You can safely get on the road.

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Article by Nathalie

Bike Helmet Expert.

Nathalie