The Smart Choice – To Rent or to Buy a Helmet?

When it comes to hitting the slopes, safety should always be a top priority. Among the essential gear for skiing or snowboarding, the helmet stands out as a non-negotiable item. However, one common dilemma prevails: Should you rent or buy your helmet? While some may consider renting a helmet as a convenient option, investing in your own is a decision that offers numerous benefits that prioritises your safety and comfort.

Owning your own ski helmet ensures a perfect fit every time and a properly fitted helmet is essential for optimal protection, significantly reducing the risk of head injuries during falls or collisions. We recommend you choose a helmet with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) such as the Smith Nexus MIPS Helmet in Matte Slate Black or the Women's Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet - Matte Black. MIPS is the benchmark in helmet safety but rental helmets won’t include these essential features and instead offer only basic impact protection. Find out more about MIPS and why it is so important here.

While rental helmets must undergo regular inspections, their quality and condition may vary and many ski resorts opt not to clean helmets, but instead dispose of them at the end of a season - raising concerns about hygiene, sanitation and unnecessary waste.

Helmet/goggle compatibility has big advantages for comfort as well as mitigating fogging and is another factor to consider when deciding whether to rent or buy.  Hire helmets and your personal goggles in most cases will never fit correctly but when purchasing these items, the Snowscene Team can ensure your helmet and googles offer the utmost support and protection for your peace of mind.

While renting a helmet may seem more convenient than having to pack and carry one with you, helmets are lightweight and careful packing will allow you to snugly fit thermals and socks into the underside of your helmet ensuring it takes up minimal space. Having your own helmet means it's readily available with a comfortable and secure fit every time.

Investing in your own ski helmet is a decision that prioritises your safety and peace of mind on the mountain. At Snowscene, we understand the importance of finding the right gear for your winter adventures and offer an extensive range of helmets for the whole family. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a first-time snowboarder, our expert team is here to assist you in finding the perfect helmet and with top brands such as Smith and Giro, you can prioritise safety without compromising on style or comfort.