Helmets

When you go climbing mountains, you'll have to deal with not only the choice of clothing, but also technical climbing equipment. Crampons, picks, belts, carabiners... all this new information will probably be overwhelming at first.

This page is your lifeline in this case. We will briefly summarize all the basics regarding the different equipment elements - what options exist and how to choose the most suitable one for you.

First, find out what equipment you need for your specific adventure. The choice of equipment depends primarily on the route/mountain you choose, and you don't need to carry an armada of technical equipment everywhere.

The helmet, like the belt, must be oriented correctly. Although it seems like a good all-purpose solution to wear a cycling helmet or head protection for some other sport in the mountains, in reality this is not the case.

Cycling helmet is designed to protect your head more from the sides, because you generally fall sideways from a bike. In the mountains, however, the biggest danger is to your head - rocks or a fellow climber's equipment can fall from above. Also, bike helmets often have large vents, from which these same rocks can fall in. You definitely don't go in the mountains with a bike helmet.

With ski and snowboard helmets The situation may be either way. Some of them have a certificate from the manufacturer for mountaineering use - then it can be used in this way. However, if the manufacturer of a ski and snowboard helmet has not specifically stated such suitability, it must be assumed that such a helmet is not suitable for mountaineering. The reason may again be in the arrangement of the padding inside the helmet.

Helmets for construction use may also be suitable for mountain climbing, as the dangers lurking are quite similar, but they are generally heavier and more uncomfortable, and they sometimes cannot be closed with straps under the chin.

Motorcycle helmet - why would anyone want to drag this scumbag into the mountains...

A few other comfort elements play a role in a helmet:

• Weight - A lighter helmet is much more comfortable to carry up a mountain for several hours in a row.

• Compatibility with headlamp - A summit day can often start in pitch darkness, and it's incredibly convenient if your headlamp stays securely attached to your helmet. A good helmet has small pegs under which you can attach the headlamp strap.

• Ventilation holes - can be both an advantage and a disadvantage depending on the surrounding weather. It is better if they are present - in cold weather you can always pull the hood up. Some helmets also have the option to close the ventilation holes.

• Compatibility with glasses - If you're going to climb mountains with ski goggles, test them first to make sure they fit together. Make sure the helmet doesn't push the goggles up your nose or that the helmet and goggles together don't pinch the skin on your forehead.

When choosing a helmet, make sure it is the right size for you. Generally, good climbing helmets fall between certain sizes. adjustableso that you can fit both a thinner and thicker hat underneath if necessary. The helmet should not move or be too tight on your head.