UKC

Are the £29.99 Decathlon Calcit helmets suitable for indoor climbing for an adult?

An earlier post in this forum includes positive comment on the £20 more basic Simond helmets http://www.ukclimbing.com/forums/t.php?t=533019 But to my eyes, the slightly more expensive model does look a significant step up.

Here's the £29.99 model: http://www.decathlon.co.uk/calcit-light-white-id_8159326.html

Here's the £20 version: http://www.decathlon.co.uk/calcit-id_8175049.html

I have noticed that apart from in scheduled classes, a large proportion of the climbers at my wall don't seem to wear helmets at all. This perhaps tempts me to skimp a bit on the helmet more than I would do otherwise.

I've bought own-brand stuff from Decathlon before (not climbing gear), and it was decent.

In reply to Annoying Twit: Why shouldn't they be. Although not it's original intention a CE mark is usually taken to mean that an item complies with EU standards and that would include safety. If it's got a CE mark it should just be a matter of build quality and comfort.

I don't know anyone who wears a helmet indoors other than those on commercial courses.

In reply to GridNorth:

Comments on build quality and comfort would be appreciated. Sometimes it's the little things that make a big difference, like a strap that digs into you. I'm aware that people's heads and necks are different shapes and YMMV.


Erm, I do. I have had one landing where I feel the helmet I was wearing protected me a bit. And other near headthump miss on a protruding hold when falling.

In reply to Annoying Twit:

My missus has one for outdoors. Seems well made and comfy enough for her particular head.

In reply to Annoying Twit: The only way to establish comfort levels is to try one on. What is comfortable on one person may be uncomfortable on another.

I have been to numerous walls and still maintain that helmet wearers are very much in the minority indoors but if you feel a need to wear one then you should. Personally I think they are more of a hazard indoors if it's crowded.