The importance of the helmet in paragliding cannot be underestimated, as it is an essential element for the safety and well-being of the pilot. Beyond its obvious role of protection against potential impacts in case of a fall or collision, the helmet provides vital protection against the varying environmental conditions encountered in flight. Indeed, unexpected turbulence, airborne debris, or even sun exposure can all represent risk factors.
Choosing a helmet specifically designed for paragliding not only ensures adequate protection, but also provides optimal comfort, proper ventilation, and a secure fit, all of which are essential for maintaining the concentration and performance of the paraglider pilot in all conditions. Furthermore, there are different types of paragliding helmets.
When selecting a helmet for paragliding, it is essential to consider the different options available in order to choose a model perfectly suited to your practice. “Open-face” or “1/2 jet” helmets are characterized by the absence of a chin guard, offering an increased feeling of freedom as well as a wide panoramic view that is particularly enjoyable in flight. Highly appreciated for their lightweight and comfort, they allow you to fly with great ease, especially in calm conditions.
Conversely, the full-face helmet is designed for enhanced protection. Equipped with a chin guard, it effectively protects the face in case of an incident. This type of helmet also helps to reduce wind noise, significantly improving comfort in flight, especially during long transitions. By limiting external constraints, it also helps to reduce fatigue and preserve hydration, two important factors during extended flights.
Finally, the possibility of adding a visor to certain paragliding helmets is a valuable advantage. It helps to reduce wind impact on the face, improve thermal comfort, and optimize visibility in flight. This option enhances the overall experience by providing better protection while maintaining excellent visual clarity.
Air et Aventure has selected the best brands of helmets for paragliding. In our categories, you'll find the main iconic and must-have models that can be seen on every flying site in France and around the world!
Firstly, it is highly recommended to wear a helmet to fly safely, although it is not mandatory. However, using it can save your life in case of an incident during the flight. Also, note that your insurer might refuse to compensate you if you are not wearing a helmet. In tandem flights, both the passenger and the pilot must wear a helmet.
Before choosing your paragliding helmet, it is crucial to know your head circumference. There are different helmet sizes, each adapted to different head shapes. A poorly fitting model can cause pain, especially after many minutes of flying, thus reducing your enjoyment of flying.
Generally, the average head circumference is between 55 and 59 cm for women and 57 and 61 cm for men. To determine yours, simply measure the circumference of your head at forehead level with a tape measure.
Once you have your measurement, refer to each brand's size guides to choose the model best suited to your needs.
Lastly, you can buy a second-hand paragliding helmet. However, since a helmet is a safety equipment, we advise opting for a new one whose history you know. Also, it is recommended to replace your paragliding helmet every five years. This equipment tends to degrade over time, and to ensure its effectiveness, you need to renew it regularly.
There are two main types of protective shells:
• Inmold shells make paragliding helmets lightweight, but in return, the shell deforms more easily upon impact.
• ABS shells, which are more robust, have the drawback of making the helmet heavier. We recommend avoiding them if you plan to practice hike and fly.
In summary, both technologies are highly effective in absorbing impacts.
The standard that helmets must comply with for use in paragliding is the EN 966 standard. This certification defines the requirements that all helmets intended for paragliding must meet. A well-known example is the Nerv 2 from ICARO. Some helmets may also meet multiple standards, allowing them to be used in several disciplines such as skiing, snowboarding, or mountaineering.
However, be careful not to use helmets certified for other activities, such as motorcycle helmets. These are not designed to withstand the specific types of impact encountered in paragliding.
Beyond the shell, several criteria and details can influence your choice of helmet. Here is a list of points regularly considered by our customers:
Additionally, there are different colors for your paragliding helmet. High-visibility colors like fluorescent yellow or orange are designed to make you visible from long distances. Some pilots also appreciate them for their unique aesthetics. Conversely, more standard colors like black or white offer a sober and elegant look.
Moreover, if you want to learn more about paragliding helmets and their use, we invite you to read our detailed blog article.
At Air et Aventure, we do everything possible to offer you paragliding helmets with the best value for money. The price of a certified helmet generally ranges between €80 and €250, depending on the brand and selected options. Our team carefully selects the most high-performing models and well-known brands in the industry such as CHARLY, ICARO, NEO or SUPAIR, to guarantee reliable, durable equipment suited to your flying practice.
Thanks to our large stock availability, your helmet is quickly shipped and ready to accompany you in flight. Our online store allows you to easily compare models, choose your size and color, and add accessories such as a visor or a headset. In addition, free shipping is available from €200, allowing you to equip yourself under the best conditions.
Need advice? Our specialists and instructors are available to guide you and help you choose the helmet best suited to your needs. Please note that, like all personal protective equipment (PPE), helmets are not eligible for returns: it is therefore essential to carefully check your size before purchasing. If in doubt, our team remains available to assist you every step of the way.
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