How to Fit a Kids' Helmet Correctly: A Guide to Banwood Eco Helmet Sizing

Quick answer

Fit a kids' helmet by measuring head circumference just above the eyebrows, choosing the closest size within the 50–54 cm range, and adjusting the dial and straps so the helmet sits level and moves less than 1 cm when they shake their head. Recheck the fit every few months because toddlers grow quickly.

If your child's helmet slides back or wobbles from side to side, it won't protect them properly in a fall. The good news is that correct fitting takes about five minutes once you know the checkpoints.

This kids helmet fitting guide walks you through measuring, adjusting, and testing the fit on a Banwood Eco Helmet, with the same steps that work for most toddler and kids bike helmets. You'll also find clear guidance on helmet size 50–54 cm and when to size up.

Measure head circumference accurately

Wrap a soft measuring tape around your child's head, about one inch above the eyebrows and just above the ears. Keep the tape level all the way around and snug but not tight. If you don't have a soft tape, use a piece of string and measure it against a ruler.

Take the measurement two or three times to be sure. Most kids' helmets, including the Banwood Eco Helmet, are designed to fit a head circumference range rather than one exact number. Write down the measurement in centimeters so you can compare it to the size chart.

• Measure in the morning or after hair is dry; wet hair can change the reading slightly.

Match the measurement to the helmet size range

Banwood Eco Helmets are sized to fit head circumferences within the 50–54 cm range. If your child measures 51 cm, that falls inside the range and should be a good starting point. If they measure 49 cm, the helmet may be too loose even at its smallest adjustment, so it's worth waiting or checking a smaller size if available.

A helmet that's too large won't stay in place during a fall, and one that's too small can cause pressure points. The size range is there to give you some growing room, but you still need to fine-tune the fit with the adjustment dial.

• If your child is between sizes, choose the smaller size only if it fits comfortably; otherwise size up and use the dial to tighten.

Position the helmet correctly on the head

Place the helmet on your child's head so the front edge sits just above the eyebrows—about one or two finger widths above the brow. It should not tilt back like a beanie or forward over the eyes. A level helmet protects the forehead, which is a common impact area.

Many parents put the helmet on too far back because it feels less restrictive to the child. But a helmet that exposes the forehead won't do its job. Check in a mirror or take a phone photo from the side to confirm the angle.

• The helmet should cover the top of the forehead without blocking vision.

Adjust the dial and straps for a snug fit

Turn the adjustment dial at the back of the helmet until it feels snug all the way around. You should be able to fit one finger between the strap and your child's chin, but no more. The side straps should form a V shape just below the ears, and they shouldn't twist.

Once the dial and straps are set, ask your child to open their mouth wide. The helmet should pull down slightly on their head. If it doesn't move at all, the straps are too loose. If it presses hard into the forehead, loosen the dial a quarter turn.

• Always fasten the buckle securely—an unbuckled helmet can fly off in a crash.

Do the shake and roll test

With the helmet buckled, have your child shake their head side to side and nod up and down. The helmet should stay in place with only minor movement—less than about 1 cm. If it slides more than that, tighten the dial or adjust the straps.

You can also gently push the helmet from side to side and front to back with your hands. It should feel firmly connected to the head without being uncomfortable. A helmet that shifts easily needs more adjustment before riding.

• Repeat the shake test after every adjustment until the helmet stays put.

Recheck the fit as your child grows

Toddlers and young kids grow quickly, so a helmet that fit perfectly in spring may be too tight by fall. Check the fit every two to three months, and always before a growth spurt or a new season of riding. Look for red marks on the forehead or complaints of pressure.

If the helmet feels tight even with the dial loosened, or if it sits too high on the head, it's time to size up. Banwood Eco Helmets are designed to work with the 50–54 cm range, so once your child exceeds that, you'll need a larger helmet.

• Never let a child wear a helmet that's too small; it won't absorb impact properly.

Step-by-step helmet fitting checklist

1. Measure head circumference: Use a soft tape around the head, one inch above the eyebrows and above the ears. Record the measurement in centimeters. Checkpoint: If the measurement is between 50 and 54 cm, a Banwood Eco Helmet should fit.
2. Position the helmet level: Place the helmet so the front edge sits one to two finger widths above the eyebrows, not tilted back. Common mistake: Letting the helmet sit too high, which exposes the forehead.
3. Tighten the dial: Turn the rear dial until the helmet feels snug all the way around, with no pressure points. Checkpoint: You should be able to fit one finger under the chin strap.
4. Adjust the straps: Set the side straps to form a V just below the ears and buckle the chin strap securely. Common mistake: Twisted straps or a loose buckle.
5. Run the shake test: Have your child shake their head side to side and nod. The helmet should move less than 1 cm. If it moves more, tighten the dial or straps and test again.
6. Recheck every few months: Measure again before each riding season or after a growth spurt. Adjust or size up as needed. Next step: If the helmet feels tight even when loosened, move to a larger size.

Banwood Eco Helmet fit notes

• BANWOOD ECO SCOOTER & HELMET SET - CLAY: This set pairs a Banwood Eco Helmet with a scooter, and the helmet is designed to fit head circumferences within the 50–54 cm range. If your child's head measures in that range, the set gives you a coordinated helmet and scooter without guessing on size.
• BANWOOD REFLECTIVE STICKERS - UNICORNS: The 24-piece reflective sticker pack is printed on certified high-grade reflective vinyl that catches headlights and street lamps from up to 50 meters away. Adding these to a helmet improves visibility at dusk, but they don't replace a properly fitted helmet—fit comes first.

A properly fitted helmet is the most important safety gear your child will wear. Take five minutes to measure, adjust, and test the fit on a Banwood Eco Helmet, and recheck it often as they grow.