Arguments Against Ski Helmets

Ski helmets protect your head from an injury incurred from falling down or from debris.  Although the majority of skiing associations and ski resorts recommend using a ski helmet, there are reasons why some people prefer not to wear ski helmets. 

Proper Fit

If a ski helmet does not properly fit, the helmet can actually cause more damage to your head than if you were not wearing a helmet.  This is because the helmet can reduce your field of vision and decrease your hearing.  Another reason a helmet that does not fit properly can cause injury is that the helmet can cause distraction that may lead to an accident.  If the helmet does not fit properly, a skier can choke from the pressure of the strap if an accident does occur.

High Speeds

The designs of ski helmets resist impact to the head in case of impact at speeds lower than 15 miles per hour.  Many downhill skiers actually reach speeds greater than 15 miles per hour.  At higher speeds, the helmet is not rated to absorb the impact of a high-speed collision with a static object, like a tree, or impact with another skier.  The helmet will also not protect the neck in the case of performing a ski jump.  

Legislation

Many people, including avid skiers argue against legislative measures requiring the use of helmets on the slopes.  Some claim that helmet companies lobby lawmakers so that the sales of helmets will increase.  Other people state the NSAA research that shows the very low non-helmeted wearer death rate of one skier death per 1.6 million skiers per year.