When children are on their bicycles, it is particularly important that they wear a helmet. After all, they are still uncertain of the road and less able to assess dangers. In 2024, 404 children and teenagers were slightly or seriously injured in a bicycle accident (Source: Federal Statistical Office). As the market for children's bicycle helmets is constantly changing, TCS tested 16 children's bicycle helmets currently available in Switzerland.
Compared to the last test of children's bicycle helmets in 2022, the current result is sobering. Although all models offer sufficient protection to minimise the risk of injury, no helmet achieves the result 'highly recommended'—four years ago it was at least five models.
The test winner with 56 out of 100 points is the children's bicycle helmet Nutz 2.0 KinetiCore by the manufacturer Lazer. The deciding factor for the good rating is the wearing comfort, with the adjustment system for head size and headband. Also positive is its lightweight of 248 grams and the attractive price of 49 Swiss Francs. Yet, even the test winner has weaknesses. The side straps are difficult to adjust and the skin can get pinched when closing the buckle.
Large Variations in Weight
There are large differences in the weight of the helmets. The heaviest children's bicycle helmet, the Span model by Bell, weighs 397 grams. The Scamp II by Giro, on the other hand, weighs only 205 grams. High weight can be very stressful for a child's neck muscles over time. Practical tests with children showed that comfort and fit of the helmet play a crucial role.
Many manufacturers offer models with limited head circumference. This leads to the helmet becoming too small for children soon, affecting wearing comfort. Thirteen other helmets received the rating 'recommended' because they provide sufficient accident protection but show defects in handling. The children's bicycle helmets YouDrop by Abus and Urban-Active by Melon are only conditionally recommended with 38 points each.
Both have weaknesses in protection against head injuries at the temples, and the closure is cumbersome to operate. Additionally, the YouDrop model by Abus is the most expensive helmet tested at 107 Swiss Francs. Although the fundamental protective function is given, there are various possibilities for improvement in the current range of children's bicycle helmets.
TCS especially recommends better protection in the temple area, increased visibility in the dark through reflectors, and a strap system that can be adjusted laterally and does not adjust unintentionally.
TCS Tips for Buying a Children's Bicycle Helmet
- Every head shape is individual. Therefore, the helmet should absolutely be tried on
before purchase.
- For the best possible visibility, the helmet should be equipped with LED lighting and reflective
elements.
- After a fall on the head, the helmet must be replaced, even if no visible damages are apparent.
Press Contact:
Marco Wölfli, Media Spokesperson TCS
Tel. 058 827 34 03
marco.woelfli@tcs.ch