Skateboard Helmet & Pads FAQ

Protective gear is one of the smartest investments you can make as a skateboarder. Whether you're learning to push, skating bowls, or riding downhill, a properly fitted helmet and pads can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Here are answers to the most common questions about skateboarding safety gear.

Should I wear a certified skateboard helmet?

Yes.

A certified helmet is designed and tested to meet established safety standards for impact protection. While no helmet can prevent every injury, a properly certified and properly fitted helmet can greatly reduce the risk of serious head injuries.

Always choose a helmet that meets recognized safety standards rather than a novelty or fashion helmet.

What does CPSC certification mean?

CPSC stands for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

A CPSC-certified helmet has passed safety testing for activities such as bicycling and is designed to protect against severe single impacts.

Many skateboarders choose helmets that meet CPSC standards, especially for general riding and commuting.

What does ASTM certification mean?

ASTM stands for ASTM International, an organization that develops safety standards for a wide variety of products.

Many skateboard-specific helmets meet ASTM F1492, a standard developed for skateboarding and trick skating.

Unlike many bicycle helmets, ASTM-certified skate helmets are designed to better withstand the repeated lower-energy impacts that can occur during skateboarding.

Many dual-certified helmets meet both CPSC and ASTM F1492 standards, making them an excellent choice for riders who participate in multiple activities.

What is MIPS?

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System.

MIPS is a low-friction layer inside certain helmets that is designed to allow a small amount of movement between the helmet and your head during certain angled impacts.

The goal is to help reduce rotational forces that may occur during some types of crashes.

MIPS is an additional safety feature—not a replacement for proper helmet fit or certification.

How should a skateboard helmet fit?

A helmet should fit snugly without being uncomfortable.

A properly fitted helmet should:

• Sit level on your head
• Cover your forehead
• Not rock forward or backward
• Stay in place when you shake your head
• Have the chin strap adjusted so only one or two fingers fit beneath it

A helmet that's too loose or too small won't provide the best protection.

Should I replace my helmet after a big crash?

In many cases, yes.

If your helmet experiences a significant impact, it should generally be replaced—even if there is no visible damage.

The protective foam inside the helmet can compress during an impact, reducing its ability to absorb energy in a future crash.

Also replace your helmet if:

• It develops cracks
• The straps become damaged
• The buckle no longer works properly
• The foam begins separating from the shell

Do I really need knee pads?

Knee pads are highly recommended, especially for beginners and transition skaters.

They help protect against:

• Scrapes
• Bruises
• Hard impacts
• Falls onto concrete

Skaters who ride bowls, ramps, and vert parks often consider knee pads essential equipment.

Should I wear wrist guards?

Yes, especially while learning.

Many skateboarders instinctively reach out with their hands during a fall.

Wrist guards help reduce the risk of:

• Wrist sprains
• Abrasions
• Certain fractures
• Palm injuries

They're one of the most effective pieces of protective equipment for beginner skateboarders.

Are elbow pads necessary?

Elbow pads provide valuable protection during falls, particularly for:

• Beginners
• Ramp skating
• Bowl skating
• Vert skating
• Downhill riding

They help reduce cuts, bruises, and impact injuries while increasing confidence during learning.

Many experienced transition skaters continue wearing elbow pads throughout their skating careers.

What protective gear should beginners wear?

We recommend every new skateboarder start with:

• A certified helmet
• Wrist guards
• Knee pads
• Elbow pads

This combination offers excellent protection while learning the basics and helps many riders feel more confident practicing new skills.

What's the difference between soft pads and hard-shell pads?

There are two common styles of protective pads.

Soft Pads

• Flexible
• Lightweight
• Comfortable for casual skating
• Fit easily under clothing

Hard-Shell Pads

• Plastic protective caps
• Better slide protection
• Greater durability
• Preferred for skateparks, bowls, and ramps

The right choice depends on where and how you skate.

Do professional skateboarders wear helmets?

Some do, and some don't.

Helmet use often depends on the type of skating.

Professional skaters are much more likely to wear helmets while skating:

• Vert ramps
• Mega ramps
• Bowls
• Downhill courses

Many also wear full protective gear during practice, even if they choose less equipment during competitions or filming.

Can I use a bike helmet for skateboarding?

Only if it is certified for skateboarding as well.

Some helmets are dual-certified for both bicycling and skateboarding, meeting both CPSC and ASTM F1492 standards.

If a helmet is only certified for bicycling, it may not be designed for the repeated impacts commonly associated with skateboarding.

Always check the certification label inside the helmet before purchasing.

How often should I replace my helmet?

Even without a crash, helmets don't last forever.

Many manufacturers recommend replacing a helmet every 3 to 5 years, depending on use and condition.

Replace it sooner if you notice:

• Cracks
• Compressed foam
• Broken straps
• Damaged buckles
• Significant impact damage

Regular inspection helps ensure your helmet continues providing reliable protection.

How do I clean my helmet and pads?

Clean your gear regularly using:

• Mild soap
• Warm water
• A soft cloth or sponge

Allow everything to air dry completely before storing it.

Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, or excessive heat, as these may damage protective materials or adhesives.

Keeping your gear clean not only improves comfort but also helps extend its lifespan.

How do I choose the right size helmet?

Measure the circumference of your head using a flexible measuring tape placed just above your eyebrows and ears.

Compare your measurement with the manufacturer's sizing chart.

If you're between sizes, choose the helmet that provides a snug, secure fit without creating uncomfortable pressure points.

Because sizing varies between brands, always refer to the specific sizing guide on our product pages for the helmet you're considering.