The most remarkable thing about kayaking is that it can be as strenuous or relaxing as you want. Kayaking on whitewater is the perfect thrill for those seeking excitement.Kayak touring is a pleasant way to relax and enjoy the scenery. Kayaking is best done safely, so we always recommend wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) and helmet when kayaking.The best kayak helmets can turn a dangerous blow to the head into nothing more than a bruised ego, so we recommend them to every paddler.
Buying Guide
Types of Kayaking Helmets
Half-Cut Helmets
Half-cut helmets provide skull protection and efficient drainage by sitting above the ears. Sea kayaking, kayak touring, and light whitewater kayaking are the most common uses of half-cut helmets.
Full-Cut Helmets
Full-cut helmets provide the same protection as half-cuts but extend over the ears.A kayak in a cold climate provides extra insulation for the ears and covers more of the skull than a half-cut helmet.
Full-Face Helmets
The full-face helmet provides the most protection and coverage of all kayaking helmets, covering the entire head and lower jaw. In Class III and above whitewater, where head impacts are likely, they are most often used.Full-face helmets usually sacrifice comfort and drainage for protection when extra protection is needed.
Consider the Conditions
Depending on your kayaking type, you may need a different type of best kayak helmet. Whitewater kayaking requires a full-face helmet for more excellent protection.Having the best kayak helmets with plenty of vents is best if you plan to do tricks on a wave or play on a boat.To avoid getting hit by errant paddles when paddling with a group, you should wear a helmet with a thick lining.
Make Sure It’s Properly Fitted
Fit is the most influential factor in the utility of the best kayak helmets. Your helmet won’t provide the level of protection you need if it’s poorly fitted. Ideally, a kayaking helmet should cover the entire head, including the base of the skull.
It is ideal for the brim or peak of the helmet to extend beyond the nose, and the helmet should extend over the ears. When the helmet is fitted snugly without being too tight, it should contact all points between the lining and the head.
For the correct fit, you should measure your head and compare it to the brim measurement of the helmet before purchasing.To measure your head, wrap a flexible tape measure around your forehead. When choosing a helmet, keep this measurement in mind.
Consider the Construction Materials
As with kayak hulls, best kayak helmets are traditionally made of composite materials such as kevlar or injection-molded thermoplastics.
Most high-end helmets use composite materials because they are stiffer and lighter. Despite providing similar protection, thermoplastics are more flexible and heavier, typically found on mid- to low-end helmets.
Check the Retention System
A kayaking helmet’s retention system must be comfortable and secure to be effective. While paddling, a helmet with a strap that has sufficient padding is essential.
To ensure the fit is as close as possible, look for retention systems with four or more contact points, webbing supports, and two or more adjusters.
Comparison Table:
Gath Gedi
Marine rescue personnel, professional water athletes, and heavy water enthusiasts worldwide use Gath helmets traditionally associated with surfing.The Gedi emphasizes comfort and protection with its high-impact ABS shell that flexes on impact. As with crumple zones in cars, this flexing absorbs force, enhancing protection without adding weight or bulk. A layer of extra protection is also fitted to the front of the Gedi.
Besides protection, the Gedi emphasizes comfort, thanks to a closed-cell foam liner and headband that can be repositioned for an ultra-comfortable fit.Additionally, the chin strap is lined with foam to prevent chafing. With removable ear protectors, paddlers can switch between half-cut and full-cut designs, and each earpiece can be adjusted for sound.
PROS
- EVA molded closed ear protectors
- ABS shell with high impact resistance
- Foam liner with closed cells
CONS
- There is no top venting
- There is a tendency for all Gedi sizes to run small
Tontron Adult Kayaking
Tontron Adult Kayaking helmets feature a comfortable and secure EVA lining. The helmet’s back has a dial system for closing and adjusting. With this system, paddlers can adjust the fit of their helmets with one hand without stowing their paddles. Its most notable feature is the 11 vents covering the shell, providing ventilation and water drainage.
Many vents make the Comfy Practical a comfortable choice for kayakers and paddlesport enthusiasts inclined to kick up a lot of sprays. Playboaters are an excellent example of this.
PROS
- There are 11 vents for air and water
- ABS shell with high impact resistance
- The fitting can be adjusted with one hand
CONS
- Pads are not adjustable
- There is no Coolmax lining
Sweet Protection Rocker
The Sweet Protection Rocker helmet has all the features paddlers might need. Its outstanding impact resistance combines the elasticity of injection-molded thermoplastic with the rigidity and strength of carbon fiber.The shock-absorbing EPP foam liner is ideal when kayaking with multiple low-energy blows, either from river obstacles or other paddlers.
A series of lateral vents on the Rocker provides ventilation for the scalp and drainage of excess moisture. Even during serious exercise, the moisture-wicking Coolmax liner helps control moisture buildup.Its full-cut design protects the back of the skull and the ears, while the shatterproof visor protects the eyes and nose.
Paddlers can adjust the Occigrip mechanism on the fly to make the Rocker as comfortable as possible. There are only two adjustable fittings instead of the four found on high-end helmets.
PROS
- Injection-molded thermoplastic and carbon fiber
- Lining made of Coolmax
- A retention system called Occigrip
- A lightweight design
- A shatterproof visor
CONS
- There are only two adjustment points
Sweet Protection Rocker Full Face
The Rocker Full Face is an upgraded version of the standard Rocker that is designed for use in more extreme whitewater environments. Construction and fitting are similar to the Rocker, but protection is more robust. You can use the Rocker Fullface if you usually face whitewater of grade III or above but like the concept of the Rocker.
PROS
- Injection-molded thermoplastic and carbon fiber
- Lining made of Coolmax
- A system of retention called Occigrip
- It is light in weight
- Visor with shatterproof coating
CONS
- There are only two adjustment points
- A heavy load
WRSI Current Pro
There are three kayaking helmets: half-cut, full-cut, and full-face. Because the Current Pro fills two of those categories of helmets, it becomes more valuable.
This is accomplished by using removable earpieces and a shatterproof brim. The ear pieces and visors can be easily added or removed using a snap-lock system. A lightweight ABS plastic body is lined with EVA foam and has a polyurethane subshell.
With its interconnected retention system and adjustable O-brace harness, the helmet cupped the head comfortably and actively responded to hydraulic forces.
PROS
- Ear-pieces and brim are removable
- Easily adjustable and multipurpose
- Retention system with interconnected components
- O-brace that can be adjusted
CONS
- There is no Coolmax lining
- Ventilation is limited
Sweet Protection Strutter
Sweet Protection Strutters are constructed of long fiber thermoplastic, one of their primary features. Combining polyamide and long fiberglass is the key to LFT technology.The result is a helmet with an ideal combination of elasticity and rigidity, which improves impact resistance.
The LFT is complemented by a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer with excellent strength-to-weight ratio, rigidity, and impact resistance.The Strutter helmet is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a low-volume helmet with excellent protection.
PROS
- Shell made of thermoplastic fibers
- Polymer reinforced with carbon fiber
- Volume is low
CONS
- Neck protection is limited
- Pads cannot be adjusted
Sweet Protection Wanderer
Using ABS thermoplastic and rigid carbon fiber, the Sweet Protection Wanderer offers a classic full-cut design suitable for everyday kayaking.
While paddling hard, the Wanderer keeps you cool with four vents. A molded Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) liner is highly durable and shock-absorbing to protect you from knocks.As with the Rocker, the Wanderer is equipped with the Occigrip retention system, which provides a firm and comfortable fit.
PROS
- Retention system for Occigrip
- Liner made of durable EPP
- You’ll stay cool with four vents
CONS
- It is not suitable for more difficult whitewater categories
Conclusion
Three pillars determine the effectiveness of best kayak helmets: comfort, security, and utility. We chose the Sweet Protection Rocker because it excels at all three pillars. Comfort-wise, its lateral vents provide ventilation for the scalp and drain excess water, while a moisture-wicking Coolmax liner prevents moisture buildup.
This lightweight, impact-resistant shell combines the rigidity and strength of carbon fiber with the elasticity of injection-molded thermoplastic to provide cushioning and security. With its half-cut design and shatterproof visor, the Rocker provides stability and protection needed for whitewater running without sacrificing comfort for everyday wear. Look further than the Sweet Protection Rocker helmet for comfort, stability, and utility!
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