ski + snowboard / helmet size
Ski and Snowboard Helmet Size Calculator
Enter your head circumference, get your size across all major brands.
What size ski helmet do I need? Measure your head circumference in cm just above your eyebrows and ears. Small fits 51 to 55 cm, Medium 55 to 59 cm, Large 59 to 63 cm for most brands (Smith, Giro, Oakley). POC uses narrower 2 cm ranges (S: 53 to 55 cm, M: 55 to 57 cm). Kids helmets start at 48 cm. Helmet sizing is identical for skiing and snowboarding. Enter your measurement below to see your exact size across 7 brands.
Unlike single-brand size charts, this calculator shows your size for 7 brands side by side. One measurement, every brand compared instantly. Works for skiing and snowboarding.
How to Measure Your Head for a Ski Helmet
Use a soft fabric tape measure. Wrap it around your head approximately 2 cm (1 inch) above your eyebrows, passing over the tops of your ears and around the natural bump at the back of your skull. Keep the tape level and snug but not tight. Read the measurement in centimetres. If you do not have a tape measure, use a piece of string and measure the string against a ruler. If your hair is thick or long, keep it as flat as possible against your head for an accurate measurement. If you plan to wear a thin beanie or balaclava under your helmet, add 0.5 to 1 cm to your measurement.
Ski Helmet Size Chart: All Brands Compared
All measurements in cm. POC uses narrower size ranges than other brands. If your measurement falls on a boundary between two sizes, choose the larger size and adjust with the fit dial.
| Brand | XS | S | M | L | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smith | 51 to 55 | 55 to 59 | 59 to 63 | 63 to 67 | |
| POC | 51 to 53 | 53 to 55 | 55 to 57 | 57 to 59 | 59 to 62 |
| Giro | 52 to 55.5 | 55.5 to 59 | 59 to 62.5 | 62.5 to 65 | |
| Oakley | 51 to 55 | 55 to 59 | 59 to 63 | ||
| Salomon | 53 to 56 | 56 to 59 | 59 to 62 | ||
| Atomic | 51 to 55 | 55 to 59 | 59 to 63 | ||
| Sweet Protection | 53 to 56 (S/M) | 56 to 59 (M/L) | 59 to 61 (L/XL) |
Why Ski Helmet Sizes Vary Between Brands
A Small in Smith (51 to 55 cm) covers a 4 cm range, while a Small in POC (53 to 55 cm) covers only 2 cm. This means a 54 cm head is a solid Small in Smith but near the top of Extra Small in POC. The reason is that some brands (Smith, Giro, Oakley, Atomic) use wider size bands with adjustable fit systems to cover the range, while POC uses narrower bands for a more precise fit out of the box. Neither approach is better. Wide-band helmets rely more on the dial system for fine-tuning; narrow-band helmets fit more precisely but offer fewer options between sizes.
Round vs Oval Head Shapes
Head shape matters as much as circumference. A round head and an oval head with the same circumference need different helmets. POC and Salomon tend to fit rounder heads better. Smith and Oakley tend to fit medium-oval heads. Giro spans the range with different models for different shapes. If a helmet in the right size feels tight on the sides but loose at the front and back, your head is rounder than the helmet's internal shape. If it feels tight at the front and back but loose on the sides, your head is more oval. The fit system can compensate for small differences but not for a fundamental shape mismatch.
Ski Helmet Safety Standards
Two standards govern ski and snowboard helmets: ASTM F2040 (North America) and CE EN 1077 (Europe). Class A (CE) or Type I helmets cover more of the head including the ears and temples. Class B or Type II helmets are lighter with less coverage and more ventilation. Most modern helmets meet both standards. MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is an additional liner that reduces rotational forces during angled impacts. MIPS adds approximately 15 to 25 EUR (about 20 to 30 USD) to the price and is recommended by most safety researchers. Look for both the standard certification and MIPS when choosing a helmet.
Goggle and Helmet Compatibility
A properly fitting helmet should meet your goggles at the forehead without a gap. This "gaper gap" lets cold air and snow in and looks awkward. To avoid it, try your helmet with your goggles before buying. Some brand combinations work better than others: Smith helmets fit best with Smith goggles, POC with POC, Oakley with Oakley. Cross-brand combinations work but may leave a small gap or overlap. If you already own goggles, bring them when trying helmets. For matching lens tint to conditions, see the Ski and Snowboard Goggle Lens Selector.
When to Replace Your Ski Helmet
Replace your ski helmet after any significant impact, even if there is no visible damage. EPS foam compresses on impact and does not recover. Without impact, replace every 3 to 5 years due to UV degradation and material aging. Visible cracks in the shell, a loose fit that the adjustment system cannot fix, or a frayed chin strap all mean immediate replacement.
Related Ski and Snowboard Tools
For matching your goggles to the right lens tint, the Ski and Snowboard Goggle Lens Selector recommends VLT and color by weather and light conditions. If you are also fitting ski boots, the Ski Boot Flex Calculator adjusts flex rating for your weight and ability level.
Frequently asked questions
What size ski helmet do I need?
Measure your head circumference in cm just above your eyebrows and ears. Most adults fall between 54 and 62 cm. Small is typically 51 to 55 cm, Medium 55 to 59 cm, Large 59 to 63 cm. Use the calculator above for your exact size across 7 brands.
Is ski helmet sizing the same as snowboard?
Yes. Ski and snowboard helmets use the same sizing based on head circumference in cm. The same helmet works for both sports. Safety standards (ASTM F2040, CE EN 1077) are identical.
What if I am between two helmet sizes?
Choose the larger size. All modern ski helmets have adjustable fit systems (BOA dial, In Form, Custom Dial) that can tighten a slightly larger helmet for a secure fit. A too-small helmet cannot be adjusted larger and will cause pressure points.
Do I need a different helmet size if I wear a beanie underneath?
Add 0.5 to 1 cm to your head measurement if you plan to wear a thin beanie or balaclava. Most helmets with removable ear pads accommodate thin liners without sizing up. Thick wool beanies may require the next size up.
How often should I replace my ski helmet?
Replace after any impact, or every 3 to 5 years without impact. EPS foam degrades from UV exposure and temperature cycling even without crashes. Visible cracks, a loose fit, or frayed straps mean immediate replacement.
What is MIPS and do I need it?
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a low-friction liner inside the helmet that reduces rotational brain injury risk during angled impacts. It adds approximately 15 to 25 EUR (about 20 to 30 USD) to the price. Most safety researchers recommend MIPS. It does not affect sizing.
Size charts are based on manufacturer specifications as of 2026. Sizes may vary between models within the same brand. Always try a helmet before purchase if possible. This tool does not replace a professional fitting.
Last updated: June 2026