In reply to Removed User:
> (In reply to anomm) Hmmm. The helmet did not necessarily 'save your life', how could you establish that?
>
> The lesson here is not that you should aways wear a helmet, it is that you should choose you belayers more carefully!
Pointless troll.
We all make mistakes and a measured response to a significant near miss is what's required.
Others have stated the medical stuff about backs etc so wont go there.
A few days afterwards now you are both a bit calmer, you need to discuss the incident, get some decent advice, go back to that spot and analyse the circumstances and then make a reasoned and informed decision.
You havent mentioned your skills nor the skills of your belayer and as such, if you are both 10 year plus 3 times a week climbers then ditching a sound partner with whom you have climbed hundreds of times might be a bit baby and bath water.
The hemlet issue will always be contentious as I guess some dont think they go well with their bare chests (and the lads) and dreadlocks
. Fact is, whilst there is no cast iron 'proof' that it saved his life, you can't bet against him having scrambled brains if he had hit his head awkwardly without the helmet.
Remember the lovely, late Natasha Richardson and partner of Liam Neeson who hit her head awkwardly falling whilst on skis - a few feet and not at speed. She's dead now
Glad the OP is OK.