Kids Bike Helmet & Safety Guide
A correctly-fitted helmet is the single most important piece of bike safety kit. Here’s how to fit one properly and keep your child safe on every ride.
Ready to choose?
We compared 10 kids bikes on ride quality, weight, build and value - balance bikes, first pedal bikes and geared bikes, for every age and budget.
A helmet, every single ride
How to fit a helmet: the 2V1 rule
A helmet only protects if it fits and is worn correctly:
- 2 - two fingers above the eyebrows: the helmet sits level, low on the forehead, not tipped back.
- V - the straps form a V just under and slightly in front of each ear.
- 1 - one finger between chin and strap: snug enough that the helmet doesn’t rock or slide.
Check it fits before buying if you can - kids’ heads vary, and a helmet that’s too big won’t protect.
Choosing the right helmet
Look for a helmet that meets your country’s safety standard (e.g. CPSC in the US), fits your child’s head now with an adjustable dial for fine-tuning, and that they actually like - a helmet they want to wear is a helmet that gets worn. Don’t buy a helmet to “grow into.”
Beyond the helmet
- Check the bike over after assembly: brakes work, wheels and headset tight, tyres inflated.
- Teach braking to stop, looking ahead, and basic road/path awareness as they progress.
- Choose safe places to ride - smooth, flat and traffic-free to start.
- Consider gloves and closed-toe shoes; knee/elbow pads can help nervous beginners.
A note on supervision
Young children should always be supervised while riding, and kept well away from traffic and driveways. Match their independence to their skill and your local environment.
Ready to choose?
We compared 10 kids bikes on ride quality, weight, build and value - balance bikes, first pedal bikes and geared bikes, for every age and budget.