When it comes to wearing helmets for skiing and snowboarding, I am an unabashed advocate.
I believe helmets are a necessary piece of equipment, for safety and comfort, for both children and adults.
So today, I am thrilled to be working with Bollé on a gear review and giveaway.
Because, just like me, Bollé is all for putting lids on our skiing kids.
Why Helmets Matter
Skiing and snowboarding safety is multi-faceted. Wearing a helmet won’t prevent your children or you from making poor decisions. Thus, it’s important that all skiers and snowboarders understand the basics of staying safe on snow.
Start with the NSAA Skier and Snowboarder Responsibility Code.
Review it with your kids. Make sure they understand the importance of skiing in control and in a manner appropriate to the weather and terrain.
Next, make sure everyone in your family has well-maintained, properly fitted and tuned gear. While this clearly applies to skis, boards and bindings, it’s also important to wear snowsports-specific helmets and to replace helmets as they age or if damaged in an accident.
Snowsports helmets are not foolproof, and they don’t offer 100% protection, especially at higher rates of speed.
But they will lessen the impact of falls and collisions. According to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), helmets can reduce head injuries by 30-50%. And while helmets offer the most protection at speeds less than 14 m.p.h., wearing a helmet can mean the difference between a minor mishap and a serious injury, at any speed.
Bollé Junior Helmets and Goggles
Today, we’re reviewing Bollé junior helmets and goggles. My friend Sarah, and her children helped with this, using the helmets and goggles on sunny, snowy and slushy days, on days when the everyone was happy, and on days when there were tears.
And while all brave ski moms and dads know that you can’t always control the tears, Sarah was happy to report that none of the tears were related to anything Bollé.
The helmets reviewed are the B-Free (size 53-57 cm) and the B-Kid (size 49-53 cm).
Before passing the gear onto Sarah, I took a careful look at both helmets (actually three of them, as we also received a larger B-Kid).
What I saw was impressive.
Protection. Just as in many of Bollé’s adult helmets, the helmet shell is made of polycarbonate bonded to an interior foam liner. This combination is lightweight, comfortable and seriously impact resistant.
Comfort. The interior padding for both helmet models is plush, comfortable and hypoallergenic. While the B-Kid helmet has soft, fixed ear pads, the B-Free helmet has soft ear pads that can be removed for washing. Both helmets are also ventilated from the top and rear, providing air flow for greater comfort.
Sizing. Helmet sizing can be adjusted using the padded chin strap and a Click-to-Fit dial on the back. This dial allows precision sizing and adjustment in the easiest way possible.
Cute. The helmets are adorable and easy to coordinate with children’s ski outfits. In addition to the B-Free Helmet, Henry tried coordinating Bollé goggles. He demoed the Explorer goggles with dual lenses, an anti-fog inner lens, multi-layer foam, integrated fit strap and flow tech venting.
And yes, they too, were quite functional and cute.
Straight from Brave Ski Mom Sarah
Here’s what Sarah reported after her son and daughter had used the helmets a few times.
“The kids both LOVED the helmets and goggles. There was only one pair of goggles, but in a happy coincidence, we had bought our daughter some Bollé goggles at the beginning of the season so we were able to use those with the helmet!
“Both kids loved the designs and the helmets are very plush, cozy and provide a lot of warmth while still being very lightweight.
“The matching style on the boy’s helmet and goggles is extremely “hip” and the matte black finish on the boy’s helmet is particularly sharp-looking. The two girl’s helmets are both super cute and my daughter loved the butterflies on them.
“The only thing that is awkward to adjust is the length of the chin strap. It seems like the plush protector on the strap was too long so it was difficult to adjust the chin strap tight enough. (From BSM: I checked with Bollé, and if the protector is too long, it can be trimmed to fit better without compromising performance or comfort.)
“Overall the kids (and parents!) love the helmets and goggles.”
More About Bollé
Bollé has been in business since 1888, when the French company began manufacturing combs and hair ornaments (who knew?). They started manufacturing safety glasses and goggles in 1950 and made their mark with “cat-eye” sunglasses in 1956. With the introduction of ski goggles in 1960, business boomed and today Bollé is a leader in the manufacture of athletic eyewear, cycling helmets and ski helmets.
Giveaway!
As mentioned above, Bollé is all in on ski and snowboarding safety. As part of their commitment to on-snow safety, Bollé is generously giving away a B-Lieve kids’ helmet and coordinating Explorer goggles.
The B-Lieve Helmet comes in either 51-53 cm or 53-58 cm. I’m partial to the Anna Fenninger Signature Series helmet (shown below), but you can choose from amongst four helmet designs and five coordinating goggle designs.
To enter, please leave a comment about how you keep your family safe or why you and your children wear helmets.
We’re doing a quick turnaround on this giveaway, with one winner chosen randomly from all comments on Friday, March 18th.
Good luck!
Many thanks to Bollé for sponsoring this giveaway. As always, all opinions, unless attributed to someone else, are my own and are exactly what I would tell my family and friends.
More Helmet Safety:
- Ski Helmet Safety Tips for Kids and Families, October 20, 2014.
- Ski Helmets: Should Kids Have a Choice? October 17, 2011.
- Kids, Safety and Ski Helmets: Some Questions and Answers, October 15, 2012.
- Of Course You Should Put A Lid on Your Kid (Helmet Fitting Tips) November 18, 2010.
- Ski Helmets: True Stories, Safety Campaigns and a Junior Helmet Giveaway, October 14, 2013.
© 2016 – 2017, braveskimom. All rights reserved. Any use or publication of content, including photos, requires express permission.
Helmets are a must here in the East, regularly too much ice.
You’re so right. While a fall into soft powder might not be good, a fall on hard ice can be catastrophic. Of course, spring conditions add to the challenge, making a helmet all the more important!
@BraveSkiMom – A great article on safety, ski helmets and kids. Spread the word. Karen
Thank you Karen! We’re preaching helmet safety all the time. Thankfully, many people already get it!
There is no benefit to skiing without a helmet. We get extra use out of our ski helmets when sledding and ice skating.
Very smart! I have to admit, I’m not good about helmets when sledding, but it makes all the sense in the world. Thanks for the suggestion!
There’s no reason to take the risk of skiing without a helmet on a public piste any more than driving on the road without a seatbelt on. No matter what level skier you are, you don’t have ability information about those on the slope with you – besides, most accidents are just those – accidents! It’s never too early to get a skier accustomed to wearing a helmet. It’s as essential a part of the ski kit as skis are.
Really wise words here. Accidents can happen to any one at any time, regardless of ability or perceived control. As you say, that’s why they are accidents. Furthermore, it’s all about risk management. Why subject yourself or your family to unnecessary risk?
Thank you!
We always wear helmets when skiing, biking, when riding scooters. We even wear helmets if scrambling or hiking on loose terrain.
So good to hear! I find that wearing a helmet gives me and my kids an extra sense of security. It’s not foolhardiness, but by taking your mind off of your mind, one is able to better concentrate on the activity at had!
Love that Bolle is making safety gear that kids want to wear! Our family always wears helmets for skiing, and sledding as well!
I agree! It’s so important that kids like what they’re wearing. While we sometimes act as if younger kids don’t really have opinions, they do!
Our girls are always the first to point out anyone not wearing a helmet and how if the helmetless individual bonks their head how much it would hurt.
Very wise young ladies you have! And have they noticed that many of the best skiers and snowboarders are wearing helmets?
The whole family wears helmets while skiing/ boarding. Wouldn’t let the little one’s on the slopes without protecting their brains! I admit I was a late comer to the helmet team, but when my little sister needed one I decided I’d set a good example.
Leading by example is a potent means of impacting others! Well done! We were a bit late to the party, too, and now wonder (my husband and I) what we were waiting for! I love helmets.
I have had a helmet on my kids from day 1 and now the whole family does-just got mine this year.. My son has had three accidents and each time his helmet was on and helped prevent further injuries..
Thanks Misty! Hope you are enjoying your helmet! And I hope you son hasn’t been injured in his accidents. Accidents happen and so does helmet damage, so it’s important to inspect the helmet after all accidents to make sure it’s still in good order.
He has, but all is good in the end.. Just broke his leg last week.. New helmet each accident just to be safe..
Oh no! So sorry about his leg. Luckily kids mend fast! And you’re a smart mom!
In our house, helmets aren’t a choice, but the rule. We lead by example – we wear them too. Extra bonus on cold days – they help keep you warm!
I love how warm a helmet is! And they never itch!
What a wonderful giveaway! We always wear helmets in our family, it’s never an option not too. Helmets save lives. Thanks for the chance to win!
You bet! Thanks for entering!
We bought the Grandboys their helmets when we started them skiing last year. They love the whole sticker collection opportunity:) We ( the grandparents) were late to the helmet party and made the investment this year. My bare noggin now feels vulnerable!
Good to hear Sara! Glad you jumped on the helmet train. And thanks for bringing up stickers! Yes, helmet stickers rule amongst certain age groups! *and for Ski Moms, I’ve got stickers! If you want some, just shoot me an email at my Contact Me button!
All of our family members wear helmets when we bike, ski, etc. I work with many people who have suffered head trauma, some more significant than others. Just seeing how people can have their lives changed by these experiences is reason enough for me!
Such a great point. Lives can change in an instant, and not for the better.
My kids wear helmets because I didn’t. As a child, I was skied I to from behind by an out-of-control guy. Hurt my head etc. You never know the abilities of those around you. I would never put my kids into any position where they are that unsafe. Thanks for the giveaway. Would love to win for my daughter who starts next!
Wow Becky, that’s a good testimonial. You don’t know the ability of those around you and protecting your noggin is an easy way to protect your health. Cheers!
Helmets and goggles have never been an option for my girls. They really don’t know any different, and because all the other kids on the mountain wear them it’s never been questioned. In fact we will be in the market for at least one new helmet for next year, due to out growing.
Thanks Pamela! Yes, outgrowing the helmet is an issue. It’s so important that the helmet fits. Thanks!
Our whole family wears helmets. So important, and as a plus, they keep all our ears really warm!
Safety and comfort! Who could ask for more?
Our kids wear helmets for biking, scootering, skiing, skating, sledding. …. they know if they’re going to be going fast on any kind of equipment the helmet goes on ha. And since we started with them so young, they love wearing them!
I love this. Go fast? Helmet on. ‘Nuff said.
I cringe when I see kids or adults skiing without a helmet. Bonus in MN they keep your ears and head nice and warm!!
And warmth is really such a strong selling point of helmets. I do not know how people can ski in just a beanie or ear warmer. Brrr!
Everyone in my family wears a helmet because you can control yourself, but you can’t control everyone else on the mountains.
Well said! Thank you!
Helmets are so light and comfortable. Air vents keep you cool and ears are covered to keep you warm. I can’t imagine not wearing a helmet anymore! Cool styles make it easy for kids to like them as well.
And yes, you bring up an important point! The vents. Cold or warm, there is no excuse for not wearing a helmet. 🙂
My boys are so used to wearing them for skiing that they now wear them for sledding, snow scootering, skating and snow ball fights!
Wear helmets for all sports that start with “S”! Except maybe swimming!
We use helmets to protect those growing developing brains:)
I don’t know about you Colleen, but now that I’m wiser (LOL) I wish I’d protected my brain a bit more. Helmets are a terrific start!
I grew up skiing ice in Indy. I can’t imagine the head trauma I would have seen if I didn’t have a helmet. I preach the importance of helmets now to all my nieces and nephews. Kids tend to be fearless 🙂
Kids are often fabulously fearless! I don’t believe in making anyone fearful, but I do think helmets make good sense and allow kids to continue their fearless ways! Thanks!
Our kids wear helmets every.single.time. they are on skis or a bike. And 99% of the time on sleds. We think its something they should start from a very young age and so its just normal…we need new helmets though so this would be great! Thanks!!!
When you’ve got growing kids and a growing family, you can always use more helmets! Thanks!
Our family has beginners & advanced skiers. But we all wear helmets to take care of those important noggins! Comfortable helmets make the experience more enjoyable & allow the us to hone in on our skills without fear!
Thanks Tawny! Great points!
A week and a half ago my 7 yr old had a high impact crash with a tree while skiing in VT. While she is seriously injured with a concussion, multiple bone breaks and internal injuries, I truly believe her helmet saved her life. The little ripper says she’s determined to get back on skis again next season!! We will be needing a replacement helmet for her and making sure we have a safe and comfortable one for her us essential. Nice review for a helmet that would be perfect for her! ! Helmets save lives.
Dear Audrey,
Thank you for sharing your story. I am SO relieved that your daughter will be okay and is on the mend. Thank goodness for helmets.
I’ll be thinking of you and your family the next few weeks while your daughter recovers.
Kristen xx
Thanks for the good thoughts. She’s a “real” skier now. Lol. All her ski clothes cut off so we’re gonna enjoy getting her new digs for getting back out there. Perhaps lessons to start the new season for safety and confidence. Such a wonderful family sport, but the risks can be huge. Helmets are a must!
My son was in an accident when he was 11. Not physically damaging, but mentally it was a challenge. We are convinced it’s made him a better and safer driver. Lessons learned! https://braveskimom.com/how-a-ski-accident-changed-our-lives
There’s always a silver lining! Good luck to you and your daughter. xx
Thanks for the link to that article. I hope her accident makes her a more cautious and responsible skier. I think it has brought us all closer together, and for that, I am grateful.
Funny how adversity can do that. I am happy for you!
thanks for the awesome giveaway. We ALWAYS wear helmets for safety purposes. And they are super cool when they match your skiing gear 🙂
Cool designs = cool helmets! Quality design = quality helmets!
We wear helmets for all our activities skiing, biking, and rollerblading.
Good to hear! Thanks Bonnie!
I did not start skiing with a helmet until a few years ago when I realized that if I wanted my son to wear one, then I should also wear one. Otherwise, that would have made me a complete hypocrite. Whatever the reason I started wearing one I am now thankful that I did. Not too long ago I had a really bad collision and it actually protected my head when I slammed into the snow. I still had a concussion from it but I can only imagine what would’ve happened if I didn’t have my helmet on. I’m a true believer now from first-hand experience.
Ivy, I can’t agree more. I’ve had at least bell-ringing falls and I totally believe in helmets. I’m glad you’re ok! Be sure to check your helmet. If cracked or old it should be replaced!
Even just a small fall can leave a lifelong impact without a helmet. It just makes sense. Even my son preaches the importance to his friends!
Your son is very smart! Good to hear it!
Falls are just a part of skiing. Especially with kids. Helmets help us keep those little skiers, and ourselves, safe.
Well said! Falls happen. Wearing a helmet is a form of planning ahead. Thanks!
My husband and I both grew up skiing and boarding in the PNW. As a family of ski instructors and patrolers we see first hand the importance of ski safety and proper ski gear including helmets. We’re so excited to show our kids the joy of snowsports as well.
You definitely have a different degree of information that most of us do. I’m sure you’ve seen plenty of instances where helmets would have been beneficial! While we all want to focus on the joy, common sense is key, too! Enjoy!
My boys love decorating their helmets with stickers from all of the ski resorts we’ve been to. They know nothing but protecting their noggins with a helmet and that makes me a happy mama.
Happy mamas are the best mamas! 🙂
Also important to buckle the helmet. My wife (music teacher) had a student who didn’t buckle, took a spill, and had to quit music because the noise was too much.
I would like to see more gender neutral kids gear. Our helmets (and other gear) tends to get passed down and no boy wants pink butterflies. Helmet covers help here. My daughter is rocking princess leia buns right now.
That’s a fair point. Gender neutral would help with hand-me-downs! Thanks for that suggestion. Also here’s a resource for helmet covers. http://skboot.com/shop/
Love the Leia princess buns!
Growing up in Oregon it was a law to wear a bicycle helmet for kids under 16. So it just became what you do for any sport. And now as a parent there is just no reason to jeopardize my kids safety over a helmet. You wear it or you don’t play.
Clear rules always help!
Excellent review. We rented a helmet for the season for my son who is a beginner so that we could have time to research products. We won’t take him skiing unless he has a good helmet.
Great idea Brian! Until you know what you need, renting is a terrific option. Cheers!
We’ve got 3 boys and they all wear helmets skiing and biking, but they outgrow them too so I’d love to win one!
Always good to have a helmet on hand, right? Thanks!
My girls always wear their helmets – not only for skiing but sledding and ice skating as well. Wearing a helmet is a “no-brainer”!
Well said! Thanks!
I won’t let my kids ski/snowboard without one, it truly saves lives and I think everyone should wear a helmet, doesn’t matter your age.
Couldn’t agree more!
Not just for safety but also for peace of mind! Wear a helmet!
And peace of mind, for moms and dads, is priceless!
Warm ears and safe brains! I have three little ski racers who think it’s strange when they see adult skiers without helmets.
Don’t you love that?!
Thanks for all the tips and details. My kids are 9 & 11 and have worn helmets the 7 years they have skiied. Their helmets are part of their ski gear, never a compliant since it’s always been that way! They question why everyone doesn’t wear one. As they are growing new helmets would be fantastic!!! Thanks for all you share!
Gretchen! Nice to see you again! Thanks for reading and commenting!
I just stumbled upon this website though Twitter. Although the website maybe geared towards women, I do appreciate the parenting side of it. Having 3 little ones and an avid snowboarder I looked forward to the days when the entire family can go up together. I wear a helmet because I do not want to sustain an injury that could potentially effect our family’s future. Likewise, I want to show my son & daughters that having fun and being safe is key to a long life filled with adventure.
Thank you Jared. Yes, I’m a mom and a woman, and we do have a bit of ski fashion and shopping here, but I hope you’ll come back, not just for the parenting, but also for general winter stoke! I try to do a lot of general interest posts –everything from ski resort reviews to gear reviews (not fashion related), as well as cool things like heli-skiing in Canada and a list of the best resorts for tree skiing or powder. A lot of my readers are men, not all of them are dads. I hope you’ll join us more often!
Thank you so much !
With a very active toddler, who has no fear and even less judgement or experience, I feel very strongly about him wearing a helmet. Especially as more and more research comes out in regards to concussions. Life is too short, not to protect the ones you love, to the best of your ability! Thanks for this opportunity.
You bet! Good luck!