Why do we have to wear helmets when skateboarding?

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The Importance of Wearing Helmets When Skateboarding

Head Injury Risks in Skateboarding

Skateboarding, a sport with global popularity, poses significant risks of head injuries. Studies have shown that head injuries can account for up to 75% of all injuries in skateboarding, with helmet use being alarmingly low at less than 35% among recreational skateboarders and even lower in competitive settings. The high incidence of falls and crashes during skateboarding events underscores the need for protective gear, particularly helmets, to mitigate the risk of severe head injuries.

Effectiveness of Helmets in Preventing Head Injuries

Research consistently supports the effectiveness of helmets in reducing the risk and severity of head injuries. For instance, studies on skiing and snowboarding, which share similar injury mechanisms with skateboarding, have demonstrated that helmet use can reduce the risk of head injuries by 15% to 60% . These findings are corroborated by data showing that helmets significantly lower the incidence of head injuries involving loss of consciousness. Therefore, it is reasonable to infer that helmets would offer similar protective benefits for skateboarders.

Helmet Standards and Performance

Helmets designed for skateboarding are subject to various national and international standards, ensuring they provide adequate protection against skull fractures and intracranial injuries. Tests have shown that certified helmets perform well in impact attenuation, even though their performance may degrade after multiple impacts. This highlights the importance of using certified helmets and replacing them after significant impacts to maintain their protective efficacy.

Attitudes Towards Helmet Use

Despite the clear benefits, helmet use among skateboarders remains low, influenced by cultural and social factors. Many skateboarders view helmet use as an issue of control and personal freedom, often resisting mandatory helmet rules imposed by authorities. Additionally, factors such as vanity, discomfort, and peer influence play significant roles in whether skateboarders choose to wear helmets. However, positive influences from friends, family, and parental rules can increase helmet ownership and use.

Public Perception and Legislation

Public perception strongly supports helmet use for injury prevention. A recent poll indicated that 97% of respondents believe that serious injuries can be prevented by wearing helmets during activities like skateboarding. However, in regions without comprehensive helmet legislation, helmet use remains suboptimal. For example, in Toronto, only 48.9% of users of non-motorized wheeled transportation devices, including skateboarders, wore helmets. This suggests that legislation could play a crucial role in increasing helmet use and enhancing safety.

Conclusion

Wearing helmets while skateboarding is crucial for reducing the risk and severity of head injuries. Despite the cultural resistance and low usage rates, the protective benefits of helmets are well-documented. Efforts to increase helmet use should include promoting positive social influences, implementing comprehensive legislation, and ensuring the availability of certified helmets. As skateboarding continues to grow in popularity, especially with its inclusion in mainstream sports events like the Olympics, addressing helmet use will be essential for the safety and well-being of participants.