Why we wear helmets… (examples)

rick said:

↑

I have had numerous long arguments/discussions about helmets over the past 20 or so years but almost entirely related to the debate in cycling. So I will add my 2 cents for what it is worth.

” I don’t really understand why anyone would purposely choose to not wear a helmet. The number of rocks that fall during approaches, descents, rappelling, belaying, etc. “

Here is just one example of where there are extenuating circumstances that would justify (for me) not wearing a helmet.

Just as in cycling, I have experienced numerous times where wearing a helmet added substantially to my body temperature. We all know how much heat can be lost in the winter when you are not wearing any head covering. ~25% of your heat loss can come from your head. When you are wearing a helmet in 80-90+ temps and concurrently involved in high-levels of physical exertion, overheating can be a serious concern. This can be a safety issue in itself and not just a one of comfort and enjoyment. The relatively small likelihood of experiencing a situation where a helmet protected a person from injury needs to be factored into the calculation of overall safety. Helmet use has a cost in my opinion and so it is not as clearcut a decision as some would suggest. Whether I am riding a bike or canyoneering, if I am really hot and sweating I am….1) not enjoying myself as much as If I was cooler 2)not as clearheaded 3) consuming a great deal more water 4) losing energy reserves disproportionately 5) losing mental/emotional reserves disproportionately 5) possibly becoming more impatient, irritable, etc. All this can adversely affect my safety. To ignore the above aspects of wearing a helmet and only site the positive protection it affords is really a disservice to the discussion/debate on helmet use.

So to answer your question more directly. I factor in the increased safety that would come from wearing a helmet, into a calculation of my overall safety and to a lesser degree my enjoyment. I consider this to be a rational decision. Click to expand…