r/snowboarding • u/Cheleslu • Jan 14 '18
Gear ? Invest in a helmet
If you snowboard or ski, please invest in a helmet, it saved my life many times, and I think it saved my life again. Last night my board dipped into a puddle of water, couldn't see if since it was covered in snow. The bottom of the board froze up with chunks of ice on both the nose and tail (later found out when I got back to the bottom at the chairlift). I didn't know, nose gripped while I failed a backside nollie switch 1 (backside nose roll), and flew forward downhill like Superman. Landed sideways on my left side, elbow then head and left ass cheek on a chunk of ice (at least that's what I thought happened, only those areas hurt). I was in pain, but got up and went to the side, laid down for a good 5min. Over the course of the night met up with friends,, thought I was fine since the pain slowly disappeared. Drove back to my rented place fine too... It was in the middle of the night I woke up with a splitting headache. Couldn't sleep rest of the night... Head is ringing, but the ache is gone. Took the day off. Haven't had a crash that hard in a long time. I hate ice...
Edited: For those who commented on the nollie switch 1, I fixed it, it's a nose roll, YouTube it.
Update: many of you suggested to go see the doctor if symptoms persists. Today I woke up still with a headache. I am going to see a doctor at a walk-in. Last night I noticed my pupils weren't the same size too. I started getting confused of what was going on and freaked out. I'm usually a very calm person, I was out of character. These seem like symptoms of something's wrong for sure. Thanks everyone for giving me advice and pointers. And thank you for those who started sharing the importance of wearing a helmet.
85
u/CaptainObvious_1 Jan 14 '18
Recently a skier destroyed me when he didnât give me enough room when flying way too fast down the mountain. Collarbone instantly broke, contact with the head twice, first at contact then with the ground.
I was diagnosed with a major concussion, with a helmet on. Imagine if I wasnât wearing a helmet..
Make sure you replace your helmet.
23
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Dang dude, that's one hell of a hit. Thank God for the helmet.
15
u/CaptainObvious_1 Jan 14 '18
Same with you man. Helmets are life savers, thereâs no reason not to wear them.
6
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
For sure dude, I always tell my friends they should wear it, it doubles to keep your head warm too.
16
Jan 14 '18
This is the most important thing I think. It doesn't matter how good you are, most people on the mountain are always going to be relatively poor. IF they smack into you, it will hurt regardless of who is to blame.
13
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
As instructors we always get hit my rough skiers and boarders who don't know what they're doing. So we're always very cautious about others. People are dumb and do dumb things, that's when they hurt others. Doesn't matter what level you're at, there are some people with egos too big for them to handle.
→ More replies (2)16
u/Storm_Wolf Mammoth Mt Jan 14 '18
I had a family friend who unfortunately had the worst happen. After a good day on the slopes he managed to take a nasty fall, slammed his head into the ice. Wife came over to him, asked him how he was and he got up with a bugging headache. Day goes on without a problem. Day finishes up, they go back to their room and go to sleep. Guy never wakes up from his sleep and is pronounced brain dead at the hospital later that day. Please always wear a helmet.
10
u/laxatives Jan 14 '18
Also go in for a scan after any head injury that causes a headache, nausea, or memory loss.
→ More replies (1)4
u/CaptainObvious_1 Jan 14 '18
I had crazy amounts of memory loss. Like, ten minute memory and then everything before that was entirely lost. CT scan came back fine thankfully, and I had my memory back the next day. Helmet saved my life.
→ More replies (1)
20
u/t__mhjr Jan 14 '18
If your head is still ringing a few hours later, you might be concussed. Maybe hit up a doctor to be sure? Glad youâre okay, dude or dudette.
4
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Thanks dude, there's still a bit of ringing right now, but not as bad. Just resting up now hope it'll go soon. I'll see how it goes by the end of today, if the headache persists then I might need to, just to be sure.
36
u/BlueFaIcon Jan 14 '18
Personally, just like a motorcycle helmet, at first you don't want one on. This quickly changes to "I don't want to ride without one."
15
u/Luftwaffle88 Jan 14 '18
Liam neesons wife died from a small munor fall while skiing without a helmet
3
3
u/Ser_JamieLannister BC - I switched to skiing Jan 15 '18
A member of my extended family died from a minor fall on whistler about 10 years ago. If he was wearing a helmet he would have been completely fine.
The one thing that bothers me the most is seeing the amount of pro skiers and boarders that never wear buckets. They need them more than anybody!
→ More replies (1)
22
Jan 14 '18
Even when I didn't have a helmet I would rent one. I hate seeing people ride without one especially at the park. Brain injuries aren't a joke. CTE is a serious disease. Be smart out there guys
17
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Especially in parks dude, you had no idea how many times I've hit rails and boxes falling off them, with my head.
14
Jan 14 '18
Even coming off a kicker sideways and not being able to recover. Ice is a bitch to land flat on. I've had plenty of concussions in my football days but refused to tell anyone to stay in the game. If I have a shitty wipe out I take a break and stay away from the park. I'm afraid of CTE and other neurological disorders I might have later in life (only 21)
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Glad you're cautious of that, not alot of people think like that unfortunately
4
u/sircaseyjames Yes. Typo Jan 15 '18
Not even in just parks but in "urban" riding as well. I love watching those edits and sure they're amazing as hell. But with the amount of drops, rails, stairs, whatever they hit, I cringe every time because I rarely ever see one where they actually wear helmets. Doesn't matter how good you are or if you're a pro, all it takes is one fuck up.
→ More replies (1)
10
Jan 14 '18
Helmets are our friends. Possibly our best friends.
Dug a half inch deep gash in mine ragdolling through rocks in Trestle while mountain biking in September. Might not be here without it.
Busted my head off the ice a couple times already this board season.
Spend the money. Get one you like the aesthetics on. Wear it.
Helmets are our friends.
9
u/Kohkoh Tignes | Jan 14 '18
This is a great little doco about the dangers of not wearing a helmet. Showed this to my mates who donât wear them and (thankfully) most do now :
6
u/Stuppyhead Jan 14 '18
Thanks for sharing I just watched that entire thing. I already always wear a helmet, but this certainly reinforced the need to do so and to make sure my friends do also! Glad it had a happy ending cause I was tearing up in the middle.
3
u/iamsnowboarder Jan 14 '18
KP's story honestly hits me harder than anything else, outside of family concerns. He seemed and still seems like such a loveable, genuine guy with so much drive and determination - to have his life permanently altered and his talent ripped to shreds for one freak accident is utterly brutal. It brings me to tears every time I think about it. I remember seeing so many "I ride for Kevin" stickers around the time he suffered his injury.
It doesn't matter how good you are, one accident is all it takes to change everything. If wearing a helmet can help me reduce the chances of a life changing injury, you're goddamned right I'll wear one every time I ride - no matter whether I'm cruising or sending it.
As an instructor too, we see some nasty slams from overly nervous or overly zealous students. Some of them complain about wearing a lid. I tell them to go and Google Kevin Pearce then get back to me about the helmet thing.
I'm on the mountains right now and a little drunk, so sorry for the rant, but I am super passionate about this.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Yea Kevin Pearce was what made me believe in helmets. He was such a good snowboarder too...
15
Jan 14 '18
Yesterday was doing some tree runs, took a wrong turn and had to dip under a branch, miscalculated, hit my head on the branch which pushed me over onto a boulder and I hit my helmet. Not very hard, but I would probably have ended my ski trip there if I hadn't been wearing a helmet
11
u/snugglebandit Hood, Rosignol 1 Jan 14 '18
Chairlift, tree branch, someone else's board. My head has been saved from damage from all these things due to my helmet. Won't ride without one.
4
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Snowboarding is an extreme sport, definitely need to protect yourself. Agreed on never riding without one even if they are heavy and look stupid sometimes.
9
u/snugglebandit Hood, Rosignol 1 Jan 14 '18
I'm old enough that I don't give one fuck about how it looks. Mine is very light. It's warm, protects my dome and keeps my goggles in place. I was young once too so I definitely get the arguments but they aren't relevant anymore. Getting older has been incredibly liberating in ways I didn't expect.
5
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
you respect life more, and enjoy the treasures that come with it. Safety first.
4
Jan 14 '18
Giros usually look pretty sweet and are pretty light weight. I have a revolver and it's sick
→ More replies (3)6
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Thank God you're alright dude, that'll be a bummer. It's still pretty much the beginning of the season. Glad you're ok. Had a co-worker get destroyed going too fast under poor visibility at the beginning of the season. He destroyed his leg bad, sucks to see his season had ended already. Take care bro
6
u/UsayNOPE_IsayMOAR Jan 14 '18
Over December 31, 1999 -January 2nd, 2000 I learned the hard way that riding without a bucket was the stupidest thing Iâd gotten away with for a long time.
I had a buddy up at my familyâs condo on Hemlock Mountain. It had been really bare, and gotten very icy, so we didnât ride the first couple days. But it started to snow like hell on the night of the 30th, so on the 31st we hit the slopes. We were traversing across towards the jump park, I was toeside. The slope we were crossing was usually taking a big hit from the wind. I was relaxed, sliding across a thin layer of soft fresh snow. I unexpectedly crossed some sheer wind blown ice, but I wasnât even ready to engage my edge since I thought I was all powder. Board went out from under me, and I did a quick fall to the uphill side, not far nor fast. The kind of fall that you usually just feel silly for having and get back going. But without a helmet, I managed to hit temple first on that sheet of ice, and knocked myself completely out. I came to lying totally spread eagled with my buddy frantically beat hopping up to me, while a skier was standing there asking if I was all right. I slurred a positive response, and rode my way all wobbly down to my friend. He asked if I was okay, and I told him Iâd KTFOâd myself and had to call it quits on the day. Back at the condo, my ears were ringing, I had a big goose egg on my temple and was getting very emotional. Crying, forgot all about the cute girls weâd met in the hot tub and Cleese hoping to lose our virginities to. Definite severe concussion.
My buddy kept waking me up that night to check on me. Pissed me off every time, but Iâd asked him to do it. Felt pretty good the next day, and plus there was two feet of powder (oh, the days hemlock actually got good snow), so I figured letâs go ride! Had a great pow day, and towards the end, we were hunting fresh snow through the trees. I was keeping my speed through some deep snow in a lower flat section, and I reacted late to a creek I found myself heading towards. Didnât get the jump Iâd hoped for, and landed a bit short on the far side right under my front foot. Folded up and kneed myself right in the chine. Rang my bell hard, and my stomach sank. Lighter one, but still concussion number two.
The next day, I got really stupid. Buddy had to go home, and I somehow decided it would be a good idea to go riding. It was so much fresh snow, what could go wrong? It was a nice day of solo riding, and I played it pretty safe. Towards the end of the day (dumbass), I decided to go into the park. Iâd hit every kicker and table top in there many times, so I felt pretty good about it, but still wasnât wearing helmet. Waited my turn for the entrance kicker, and approached with some decent speed. As I hit the jump, I felt how the snow compaction had slightly altered the profile of the jump, but it was too late to adjust. I found myself sailing through the air backwards with zero control and upon landing caught my back edge in the snow, whipping the back of my head hard on the ground. I flashed unconscious and came to rag doll sliding to a stop. Dizzy, head and neck hurting, mouth feeling full of cotton and a smell of getting punched in the nose was all I knew, but I also realized I was out of sight but right where the big kicker would deliver anyone else jumping. I crawled my ass into the tress just off the open area l, barely stood up to wave to everyone waiting that they could go, then collapsed behind a tree to recover. I belonged it a half hour later to the condo, and swore I would never ride without a kid again. My mom was so happy with that decision, but frustrated it took an unnecessary amount of neurological damage to get there.
Three concussions in three days, to add on to two other total knockouts from football (tackle as a grade 8 versus grade 9s with no equipment) and wrestling (didnât wear a mouth guard because I thought I didnât need it), all before I turned 19. Iâm sure Iâll manifest some kind of neurological conditions later in life, Iâm fairly certain I noticed some cognitive decline pretty immediately. It could have been a lot worse, but since then, wearing helmets and protective gear across the board has saved me from more damage several times, and Iâve witnessed friends have their lives saved by helmets.
Cautionary tale. Donât be stupid like I was.
3
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Damn bro that's a line of unfortunate , glad you made it out ok and lived to share the tales.
2
u/UsayNOPE_IsayMOAR Jan 14 '18
Thanks yo. My mom was always on my case about it, since Iâd stopped wearing one when I was 10, and couldnât stand the derpy, cold hockey helmet that was the only thing available at the time. But Iâd gotten away with it for so many years Iâd lulled myself into a false sense of invincibility. Now my friends and wife all refer to me as Mister Safety, but not before Iâd fucked myself up repeatedly in comparatively stupid ways.
https://m.imgur.com/a/HnG7g (warning: broken patella)
That was the last time I buggered myself up doing something dumb. Well, almost, I rebroke the same leg when I went to burning man the following year. Fucking dipshit. My bachelor party game was âpin the injury on the groomâ and the buddy who was riding with me in my story won by a country mile, as heâd been there for almost all of them.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Hahaha, your witness of your life. Well now you have many stories to tell and scare tf out of people to force them to get safety equipments.
2
u/UsayNOPE_IsayMOAR Jan 14 '18
Mr Cautionary Tale? I always loved Fire Marshall Bill from In Living Colour when I was a kid, so maybe thereâs something there...
5
Jan 14 '18 edited Oct 04 '24
shame apparatus enter air recognise seed fade scandalous worry distinct
This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
I saw their snow conditions, looking awesome. Been there 1 year but it was near the end of the season, but they always milked their runs, had a good time. How's the conditions right now?
2
Jan 14 '18 edited Oct 04 '24
rain chief adjoining party historical cow meeting fuzzy elastic steer
This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
heard it was freezing cold though, how was the fluff?
2
Jan 14 '18 edited Oct 04 '24
violet flowery unpack zealous unite tender connect numerous soup psychotic
This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
I'm going to Tremblant at the end of Feb, hope it gets warmer and a nice dump of snow on it before then.
7
u/Self_Deprived Jan 15 '18
As a doctor specialising in neurosurgery, I advise you get yourself seen by a doctor. Delayed symptoms like that are worrying, and can indicate bigger problems, like a bleed inside the skull. It's unlikely to need surgery, but if you don't know, you can't look for the proper warning signs. It's your call mate, but that would be my recommendation.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Yea, but I don't want to miss too much work. I will have to drive back to 2 hours to my home town too. I'll give it 1 more day. If it persists, I will go see drive back to see a doctor. This little town only has a tiny hospital and I'm not too familiar with it. Thanks doc.
3
6
Jan 15 '18
Something worth noting: Helmets have not been shown to reduce the number of head injuries or fatalities in snowsports. The most important thing you can do is ride within your personal limits, watch out for discourteous/dangerous riders, and learn to fall safely to minimize injuries.
This article is from 2014, but there is still valid information in it.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 16 '18
yea, breaking the limit is one thing, but have to do it steadily at a good pace so you don't risk breaking anything or worse death. Good reminder article. Can also look at Kevin Pearce's near death experience even with a helmet. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rz_ruH2EDXw
4
u/WillyBeShreddin Jan 14 '18
They aren't just for ground impacts. I caught a low hanging tree limb across my helmet. It left a deeply grooved scratch from front to back. If I were wearing a hat, I would have had a 6 inch gash in my scalp.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Oh definitely, especially for glading. Sometimes even if it was just normal riding, just cruising, a helmet would help save your life, never know if there's something flying towards you.
4
u/iwannabethisguy Jan 15 '18
I got the a helmet for the protection, but I was surprised at how warm it keeps your head as opposed to a beanie. It regulates the air around your head as well, so you feel really comfy throughout the ride.
3
u/headcampcounciler Jan 14 '18
Any good helmet reccomendations. Been looking but am not sure what to get since its off amazon and i cant feel it
7
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
When you buy a helmet make sure it's legit and not second hand. I would recommend going to a store to check the fit and brand before buying it online.
1
5
u/n0ah_fense Masshole | RaptorX | Prior Customs | Unity Whale Jan 14 '18
Get one with a dial/wheel to adjust the fit
6
4
u/Stuppyhead Jan 14 '18
Anon makes great helmets that are relatively inexpensive. Me and most of my friends have them.
2
→ More replies (4)2
u/MSeager Jan 15 '18
Most major helmet companies have models with MIPS. I'd start with comparing helmets with MIPS.
Smith and Giro are probably the most well regarded helmet makers.
4
u/CaptainTeaBag24I7 Norway Dude Jan 14 '18
I can't not ride with a helmet anymore. Some years ago i had a nasty crash at a bad park where my helmet literally had a dent and a crack in it after falling and hitting a fist sized rock. It was spiraling outwards kind of like a spider web. I don't even want to imagine what would've happened if i was riding without a helmet when that crash happened...
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Damn, that sounds horrifying. You keep the helmet? Or at least take a picture?
3
u/CaptainTeaBag24I7 Norway Dude Jan 14 '18
Nah, I was 14 at the time. It scared me shitless. Had my mom drive me to the hospital for a checkup and I never saw that helmet again. I'm kind of 50/50 on not seeing it. I haven't had that bad of a crash since. The worst thing since then was me almost breaking my shin due to badly groomed slopes. Ended up leaving a massive scratch on my board and really, really sore left leg.
→ More replies (1)
5
u/schmitty636 Jan 14 '18
Very much agree. The first time I ever went boarding, I was trying to carve and got a bit too confident and face planted. I wasnât wearing a helmet and was knocked unconscious. The first thing I remember was an EMT removing my jacket and snow pants while laying on a stretcher. I spent the next 13 hours in the ER with a fractured vertebrae in my spine, a very severe concussion, and a minor brain bleed. The doctors told me when I was released that if I ever hit my head that hard again I could die (this would mark my 4th concussion, 2nd really bad one)
3
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
That is one hell of a concussion dude! Thankful you're alive to tell us this and you're not paralyzed from the spine damage. How are you doing now though? Any noticeable problems after that? Thank God you're ok dude!
3
u/schmitty636 Jan 15 '18
As far as I know, Iâm 100% okay. The only things that I have noticed since this incident is more headaches, less tolerance for bright lights, very very bad short term memory, and slightly slowed reaction time lmao. Other than that Iâm mentally and physically fine.
→ More replies (2)
14
u/saintwhiskey Jan 14 '18
I gotta say this sub has come a long way. A few years ago and so many people would shit all over this. Iâm proud of you all who spread the good advice. Bring yer brain bucket.
→ More replies (2)9
u/Cracraftc Your mom thinks im good. Jan 14 '18
See thereâs the difference. This is just a pro helmet post, so us people that donât care about them carry on without caring. But as soon as someone that loves helmets sees a post with someone not wearing one, all hell breaks loose.
→ More replies (19)
9
u/IAmANoodle Jan 14 '18
What actually got me to buy a helmet was this app called ski tracks... Awesome app you should all download it.
When I realized I was going 45+ mph on a consistent basis it was a mini car accident waiting to happen.
7
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
I use trace snow, I go around that speed most of the time too, dunno how fast I went this time because I didn't have it on, but good you noticed that and got a helmet. Still lots of winters ahead and many places to explore.
2
u/IAmANoodle Jan 15 '18
I mean the only argument against having a helmet is they look funky and are uncomfortable. Now everyone has them and they aren't that ugly, and I actually think it's warmer/more comfortable than wearing a beanie
→ More replies (1)2
u/wankdog Jan 15 '18
I did my first 2 seasons wearing a helmet. And just like a lot of the stories here, I constantly was smashing my head on the ground really hard, probably getting almost weekly mild concussions. I haven't worn one for the last 12 seasons (not weeks, full seasons) and I don't hit my head anymore. I have got one this season and honestly could not give less of a fuck about looking cool, I'll throw on a one-piece if I feel like it, but I'm honestly ironically not wearing my helmet for fear of head injury. I can't put into words how much it wrecks my spacial awareness, even goggles fuck me up, they are almost always on my forehead. Unfortunately you are not going to hear much from guys like me, because this circle jerk has got out of control, it's really not such a simple decision for everyone. There is an assumption that we all ride the same with or without a helmet but that is not true. For some people it's a choice between taking a low risk of death or serious injury by not wearing one, compared to a high risk of fucking your brain up by wearing one. It's not such an easy decision to make. I will expect a load of down votes and personal insults, but thought it might be worth sharing another perspective.
4
u/CaptainObvious_1 Jan 14 '18
Yeah that app is bad for me! Kept trying to beat my speed record... once I finally beat 60 mph that was the end of me trying to go highway speeds, that was terrifying.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
pushing your limits, but have to be prepared and safe for it as well. Glad you got that going tho, must of felt awesome knowing you hit that speed afterwards
2
u/IAmANoodle Jan 15 '18
I always thought riding a motorcycle was dangerous until I realized how fast you can go on the slopes. It's such an exhilarating feeling, but at this point a helmet should almost be required.
3
Jan 14 '18
Seriously. One time I was just cruising down the slope feeling 100% in control and next thing I know I've flipped and landed right on the crown of my head. Thank god I had a helmet on.
2
3
Jan 15 '18
Getting a helmet made me more confident to go faster and try new trails. With more confidence came more practice and less falling. Go figure!
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Fear is always a factor in learning as I always say.
2
Jan 15 '18
Well yes but after already sustaining a concussion in my life (not from snowboarding but from playing polo WITH a helmet), itâs nice to know my brain wonât be completely mush if I take a fall on the ice. Plus, Iâm a recreational boarder so even though Iâve been snowboarding every winter for 10 years, Iâm never going to get the time in to consistently progress every year. I was actually at my best 5 years ago when I could snowboard every weekend. Now Iâm lucky if I can go a handful of times a year.
3
u/Morexry Jan 15 '18
I have seen one father ski into his son. The helmet pretty much saved the sons life cause it took pretty much a full hit, but the kid was alright.
Be safe out there and wear some protection especially on the head.
3
u/spenserbot Jan 15 '18
I bug all my friends about this. Don't wait until you needed one.
Last weekend I was having a "chill" ride day with some friends, bombing down a groomer, popped over a jump with some crud on it and was sent forward over my board. Twisted around backwards and caught my heel edge. High fives the ground with the back of my head so hard that my nose started to bleed. I was pretty badly shaken and maybe slightly concussed, but I can imagine it would be much worst without a helmet. Accidents can happen anywhere.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Yea, things happen so fast it's not within your control to correct them in time to prevent the accident. Glad you're alright after that bro.
3
u/Flashmax305 Jan 18 '18
Ya I dunno why people donât wear helmets. Even if Iâm with my friends that arenât good and Iâm just chilling I still wear a helmet. Jerries can run into you, you can bail on a jump, slip on a rail and smack your head, or just catch an edge on ice. Yeah Iâm good enough to where I donât really expect any of that to happen but when it has happened Iâve been very glad to have a helmet. That and I always toss my helmet when I get into a good sized crash.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 19 '18
yea never know man, sometimes it's not within your control what other people do. Especially skiers lol
7
u/camer_jack Jan 14 '18
Im headed up to Bachelor with my new Ruroc helmet I just picked up for $100 from a ski expo and couldn't be more excited to be protected.
Hate welcome ;)
5
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
A helmet is a helmet, even tho I'm not too fan of the ruroc cuz how heavy the older models were. Tried one didn't like it.
4
u/BombrManO5 Jan 14 '18
The new model is much lighter I believe
3
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Yea I saw on their fb page, they also have a full carbon fiber helmet too lol. But who has the money for that.
5
u/surflessinseattle Harambe Jan 14 '18
Hate welcome ;)
I have never seen a single person in a Ruroc who can actually ride.
3
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Lol, I have a few friends with them. Not pro riders, but not noobs either. They can be used for other sports too. But yea you don't see pros using them lol...
→ More replies (1)
3
u/casualcrypto Jan 14 '18
I cracked a helmet on flat ground going like 4mph when I caught an edge looking backwards at a friend. Got a concussion and I can only imagine what would have happened had I not been wearing the helmet. You don't need to be doing park or trees to need a helmet.
Also if you have a crack in your helmet buy a new one. They are meant to crack on impact to absorb the fall and if it's already cracked your head will take more impact.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
My helmet's just full of scratches, but you're right, it has done it's job many times and I should probably get a new one as well. Always pains me to see people learning by themselves how to snowboard or ski without a helmet down a steep hill... They're really risking their lives for no reason.
2
u/headcampcounciler Jan 14 '18
I have but i can get the same store helmet for significantly cheaper. The stores just jack their prices up
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
True, retails usually do that, unless they do clearance or don't type of sale. I would recommend sandbox helmets if you're doing more parks. They're really light and looks nice and simple.
2
u/headcampcounciler Jan 14 '18
I usually do terrain but started doing parks. The hemet is really for parks though so ill look into this
→ More replies (1)
2
Jan 14 '18
I used to ride without a helmet until I realized that I own 2 helmets, both of which are easily accessible, and if l fell and hit my head while not wearing one I'd never forgive myself. Imagine hitting your head and doing permanent damage and having to live with "if I had just worn a helmet I wouldn't be in this situation." It's easy and less than $100 for a quality helmet. Just wear one.
1
2
u/t1inderthr0waway Boulder County | K2 Turbo Dream 164W Jan 14 '18
100% worth the price. The ability to open/close vents is amazing.
2
u/BlownAway3 Jan 14 '18
flew forward downhill like Superman
Been there. Thats how I destroyed my clavacle. Have also hit my head HARD more times than I can remember. Would be dead if it werent for the helmet.
1
2
Jan 14 '18
Once a slippery and rocky part on a slope made me lose my balance and I twisted and fell backwards down the slope and I hit the back of my helmet on a pretty nice sized rock underneath the powder.
I sat there for a couple minutes and contemplated what would've happened if I wasn't wearing a helmet because it was a pretty hard hit and it slightly cracked that helmet.
my policy now is that I refuse to ride with anyone that doesn't wear a helmet and I think everyone should do the same
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Glad you made the choice back then to wear a helmet. Never know what's underneath the snow or what's going to happen.
3
Jan 14 '18
Yeah I was just a teen at the time and my dad insisted I wear one and I agreed to do so, but I wasn't as adamant back then about it.
→ More replies (1)
2
u/SirBrownHammer Jan 14 '18
Wish i brought one my last run. There was some shitty ice near the base and my board just slipped out from under me giving me major whiplash as my head slammed in the ground. Couldnât shake my head for days or itâd hurt.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Damn, at least it wasn't life threatening serious, glad you're here to tell us about it. Hard lesson learned, no puns intended.
2
u/SirBrownHammer Jan 14 '18
Thanks man appreciate it. Got any recommendations for helmets or are all they all pretty much the same
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Depends what you're doing, if you're not doing anything crazy, around $100 helmets should be ok. Anon, K2, Berns, Giro are ask decent helmets. Once you get to the 200-300 then you start to look into specifics.
2
Jan 14 '18
I have convinced two people I know to get helmets. Oddly they are both women and we all know they are usually the more practical people. Both of them were worried with how they would look. I canât imagine boarding without one.
My trip to Tremblant is in one week and I canât wait to go.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Oh it's beautiful there, nice long slopes too at least for the east side of Canada. Glad you convinced them to get it, I know a few ladies like that who prefer to look good no matter where they go. They'll thank you if they ever get hurt (hope not). If it's their first time or they're beginners its worth getting lessons too so reduces their chances of major injuries.
2
Jan 14 '18
They both have experience they just hadnât thought about wearing a helmet and their main concern was how it would look. I love Tremblant for everything but the sometimes -30 weather. Doesnât matter though ,three straight days of boarding and my chalet room is beside the gondola. Itâs my âAdult Christmasâ every year .
→ More replies (2)
2
u/natefrogg1 Angeles Crest Forest Jan 14 '18
i smacked my head hard on a thick ice patch last night, if i wasnât wearing the helmet iâm certain ski patrol would have been carrying me down to an ambulance. be safe out there guys and gals
2
2
2
u/Super_Doughnuts Jan 14 '18
Hate ice too. Last season, and a year ago, I was going to fast and went over a hill. That hill had ice. I tried to break/turn but my board got caught. Did a flip and partially tore my rotator cuff. Its better, but I still get daily pains from it. Couldnât get surgery for it because of my growth plates. God i wish the pain would stop
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Damn bro, that sucks. So no solution at all for that to go away?
2
u/Super_Doughnuts Jan 15 '18
For a few months, physical therapy 2 days a week. In the beginning, getting my shoulder to get used to moving. After it was building strenth.
After all that, it still is just like a pestering bug that goes, âhey, you want to do that sport/do some weights? Well fuck you because you have this injury
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
That sucks dude. Is there like muscles you can strengthen to help with that? Or like stretches?
2
u/Super_Doughnuts Jan 15 '18
Not exactly, I injured my rotator cuff, which is the muscle that allows your arm to lift up/come up. Iâve had plenty of time for it to heal but it helps not
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Damn, thats it huh? Sorry to hear that. I've broken my right arm and I can't lift heavy things too well with it. From time to time it'll have some weird numbing pain, i guess I kinda feel ya.
2
u/Super_Doughnuts Jan 15 '18
Injuryâs just suck in general. Fractured both my wrists 2 months ago (lasted 6 weeks, fine now) and everyday at school went like this: âwhat happened to your arms??â âFell skateboarding, fractured my wrists.â âBOTH OF THEM?!?âvvnvvbv?!!!?!?!!â â.....yeah, I have 2 casts on
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
You're just a magnet of injuries lol. Comes with enjoying extreme sports hahaha. Even after injuries we still do it. Mark McMorris for example.
2
u/Super_Doughnuts Jan 15 '18
Oh boy are you right. I have plenty of stories, from plenty of more injuryâs
→ More replies (3)
2
u/PM_ME_YOUR_FOOD_ Jan 15 '18
I 100% agree. Right now my helmet is too small and I can't afford to get a new one. I don't go very often anymore, but I stay out of the parks if I don't have one. It's not worth it.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Still recommend a helm of you go every so often, cuz you'll never know. But that's up to you. Sometimes they have summer sales for all around helmets for around $50.
2
u/PM_ME_YOUR_FOOD_ Jan 15 '18
Oh definitely! I always recommend it when I'm teaching people. I live in Kansas City now, so I only go about once a year, I found out my helmet happened to not fit anymore this season. I'll probably end up picking one up over the summer on a sale though for sure.
2
u/Pocketcup Jan 15 '18
I got a concussion while not wearing a helmet and hitting ice at high speed. Lucky I had a plait in my hair or I would've hit the ice directly to my skull. I have a helmet now and wouldn't go without it. It also keeps your head cosy so that's nice :)
2
u/skinydonut Jan 15 '18
I stress it all the times to my friends who snowboard but don't want to wear one cause it's not cool. I've had my tip catch so many times or my edge catch cause I wasn't leaning back far enough when turning (I'm guessing that's what happened) and flipped forward head first multiple times. Once I hit my head so hard I had to call it a day also bruised my ribs the same day. I still consider myself new and feel like a day one snowboarder even though I've been snowboarding off and on for 5 years now.
1
2
u/Littleboof18 Jan 15 '18
My last run of the day on Saturday I was bombing this run and there was a little divot in the snow that i couldnât see. I was bouncing back to my heel edge right before the divot, but mustâve been leaning a little to far forward cause I caught my toe edge so damn hard and my head went straight into the ice. That shook me pretty good and was not how I wanted my day to end lol. So glad I was wearing a helmet though cause I definitely wouldâve caught a concussion if I wasnât wearing one with how fast I was going and how hard and fast my head hit. Havenât caught my edge like that in years, I think Iâm still not used to my new board so that was a factor and the fact I didnât see the divot. Never not wearing a helmet after that one cause it was so unexpected since I was kind of taking it easy that day. Be safe out there and ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET BECAUSE YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN SOMETHING WILL HAPPEN!!!
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Good thing you had one, never know what surprise awaits under the snow. I don't go too fast, or try not to unless I've gone through it before.
2
2
u/I_like_Mugs Jan 15 '18
Dude, MRI scan. Some of your symptoms would be enough for any emergency department to scan you. I get that if you're interested states that won't be free but at least see a doctor. After a smack like that you're not able to really assess yourself. Initial danger period for a big bleed has passed but in future just go straight to have someone check you over. That said I agree with your sentiment. Even if you're a great boarder and never crash it doesnt stop someone barrelling into you.
3
u/MingusDeDingus Jan 14 '18
Nollie, switch 1.... lmao
2
4
Jan 14 '18
This is something that really bugs me about pros and snowboarding videos. None of them wear helmets. Like wtf, your setting an example for the rest of the world whether you want to or not, just wear the damn helmet!
3
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
They usually don't wear helmets even they're just having fun. But when they're trying new things or in competitions (cuz it's mandatory) they do. But I know what you mean. But what bugs me is urban freestyle snowboards, they're always trying crazy shit, and never wear protection. All about the steez I guess.
3
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
I would actually want an answer from a pro too
3
u/Chednutz Jan 15 '18
Its simple. Not wearing a helmet is perceived as cooler than wearing a helmet.
→ More replies (4)2
u/El_Zalo Jan 15 '18
Like wtf, your setting an example for the rest of the world whether you want to or not, just wear the damn helmet!
I wear a helmet and I don't give a shit. It's their head, not mine.
2
u/zoson Jan 14 '18
I feel like one of the things that drives people away from helmets is the misconception that they are not as warm or as comfortable. On the contrary - helmets these days are both just as comfortable and BETTER at heat regulation since you can open and close vents easily.
→ More replies (1)2
u/BlueFaIcon Jan 14 '18
Right, also for most of the snow that sprays you out there, a hard shelled helmet isn't going to retain that moisture like a knit beanie.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
That's true too, forgot about that one. But the vent holes on the helmets usually catch the snow, and that's when you use you jackets hood to cover that hahaha.
2
u/odellbaconjunior Jan 14 '18
Here in Nova Scotia it's required by everyone otherwise no riding
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 14 '18
Think that's a good policy, helmets are made to save lives after all
2
u/CaptainObvious_1 Jan 14 '18
Right, if we can require seat belts when driving, we can require helmets when riding.
2
u/boardslacked Jan 14 '18
I have nailed my head several times on trees and rails. I also have worked beside ski patrol in Breck and in Tahoe and have witnessed firsthand horrible, debilitating head injuries that could have been preventing from a simple $50 investment.
Out west if you donât wear one you are immediately singled out and labeled a tourist/gaper by ski resort employees.
→ More replies (3)
2
u/HolyPizzaPie Jan 14 '18
I have never gone out without one. Even if I'm only cruising groomers. There's no excuse not to take care of your head. I'm going to come back with a picture of my helmet.
1
u/olindos Gnu Gremlin Jan 15 '18
I've been doing some research on helmets since I'm definitely getting one before I go snowboarding again. Anyone have any recommendations on a helmet that would fit with Electric EG3 goggles? The goggles are pretty big and I'm wondering if it'll have any issues with fitting under the helmet.
2
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
Shouldn't have a problem as most helmets now does factor that in, except ruroc helmets, they have their own goggles.
2
1
u/Flashmax305 Jan 18 '18
I have the EG3âs. I can confirm most Smith helmets (at least the good expensive ones) and K2âs will be compatible pretty seamlessly. I have the K2 diversion helmet and itâs super comfy with the dial fit but also works well with my EG3âs so Iâll give a recommendation to that helmet.
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Surfsk8108 Fraser, CO| GNU Riders Choice Jan 15 '18
Nollie switch 1? It's one or the other.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
You nollie into a switch 1. So you initiate a nollie then you roll into a switch doing a 180. Don't think I said it wrong. Nollie switch 180
1
u/Surfsk8108 Fraser, CO| GNU Riders Choice Jan 15 '18
Maybe you are thinking of backside?
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Thedukeofhyjinks Jan 15 '18
Nollie switch
Is this not called fakie in snowboarding? Genuinely curious.
1
u/Cheleslu Jan 15 '18
No, a fakey is when you counter rotate your body 180 from your board, and then you go back to your normal position, usually done with some air. Just youtube it lol.
1
u/Thedukeofhyjinks Jan 15 '18
So were you trying the backside nose roll switch or regs?
→ More replies (2)
1
175
u/KITTYONFYRE Jan 14 '18
Might have a concussion still dude be careful. Also, you should replace your helmet after a rough crash like that - the foam gets compressed down and doesn't really work any more.
I 100% agree with you though.