Re: [Paddlewise] Whitewater helmet selection

From: <Rcgibbert_at_aol.com>
Date: Sun, 31 Oct 2004 16:19:21 EST
Ong,

I have a pair of helmets; one for sea and one for river or surf. I like full 
coverage (over the lower jaw for surf and river as I'm more likely to need 
there in those environments. On the sea I like the ability to set it on deck for 
quick retrieval, so I use a helmet without that full protection. it does, 
however, cover most of the ear.

What is quite popular are the molded bill on the front or back of helmets. I 
don't like them as a stiff hydraulic pulls on my head too much. I use a 
collapsible bill velcro'd to the front of the helmet instead. If you use it in 
saltwater, be sure to get stainless steel fittings. You'd be surprised how many 
helmets are meant for freshwater only and the fittings rust.

The straps need good, positive locking buckles and I like the V strap design 
as it seems to retain my head inside, even in the worst wipeouts.

Oh, as you live in Singapore, you may consider a vented design. My vented one 
is noticably cooler than my non vented one. Cold water trips can be augmented 
with neoprene headware.

Cheers,

Rob G
Offering a completely unscientific opinion based on quibbles of equipment 
past and present.
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Received on Sun Oct 31 2004 - 13:19:50 PST

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