I'm between two sizes: which should I pick?

Try both. Since the foam compresses over time, the smaller one that stays comfortable with no pressure points is usually the better choice.

Can you swap pads to adjust a helmet's fit?

On some models, yes: cheek or crown pads in different thicknesses are offered by the manufacturer. Check what's available for your helmet among our helmet accessories.

Is a used helmet a good idea?

You can't tell whether a used helmet has taken an impact, and the foam has already shaped itself to someone else's head. It's better to buy a new helmet.

Where can I get a helmet fitted?

At our locations, where you can try several models and sizes. You can also browse our helmets online, or contact us with a question.

Gear & Apparel

What Helmet Size Do I Need? Measuring Your Head and Checking the Fit

By the Groupe Contant Team · Published October 17, 2026

Quick Answer

How do you choose the right helmet size?

Measure around your head with a soft tape, about 2 cm above your eyebrows, at the widest point. Compare the measurement to the manufacturer's size chart, then try the helmet on: it should be snug all around, cheek pads pressing firmly, with no pressure points, and it shouldn't shift or roll off forward once the strap is fastened. If you're between sizes, try both.

A helmet that's too big can shift or move in an impact; one that's too small becomes painful within minutes. The right size matters as much for safety as the standard printed on the label.

This guide explains how to measure your head, account for its shape, run the fit checks, and know when to replace your helmet.

Measuring Your Head

Use a soft measuring tape (or a string you then measure with a ruler).
Place the tape about 2 cm above your eyebrows, above your ears, and around the widest part of the back of your head.
Take the measurement two or three times and keep the largest.
Compare it to the manufacturer's chart: sizes vary between brands, so a medium in one isn't necessarily a medium in another.

Head Shape Matters

Two heads with the same measurement can have different shapes: more oval (long front to back) or rounder. Manufacturers design their shells for a specific shape. If a helmet in your size creates a pressure point on the forehead or the sides, it's often the shape that doesn't suit you, not the size: try another model rather than a bigger size.

The Fit Checks

Cheeks — the pads should press firmly on your cheeks; a new helmet often gives you slight "chipmunk cheeks."
No pressure points — wear the helmet for 10 to 15 minutes in the store; localized pain on the forehead or temples won't go away.
Move your head — hold the helmet and turn it side to side: the skin on your face should move with it, not slide.
Roll-off test — with the strap fastened, push the back of the helmet up and forward: it shouldn't come off.
Chin strap — snug, with about one finger of room under the chin.
What you wear underneath — try the helmet with the toque, balaclava or neck warmer you'll wear; see our snowmobile helmet guide.

Break-In, Kids and Replacement

Break-in — the inner foam compresses a little with use. A new helmet should therefore be snug, never loose from the start.
Kids — choose a helmet that fits the child now, never one "to grow into." A helmet that's too big doesn't protect properly.
Replacement — after any impact, even with no visible damage, or around every 5 years of normal use per most manufacturers. See our best helmet guide.