What is the importance of wearing a helmet while cycling?

智也 康弘
智也 康弘
Student researching bicycle engineering and sustainable transport solutions.

Let's put it this way: wearing a helmet is like wearing a seatbelt when you drive. You don't wish for an accident every day, but if something does happen, it can be a lifesaver.

Your head is actually much more fragile than you might think. If you fall while cycling, even at a low speed, hitting your head on the ground or a curb can have very serious consequences.

The helmet's role is to "take the hit" for your head at the moment of impact. Its hard outer shell disperses the force of the collision, and the inner foam layer absorbs a large amount of impact energy by deforming, acting like a cushion to protect your brain from severe shaking and trauma as much as possible.

Many people think, "I'm just riding casually in the neighborhood, very slowly, so I don't need to wear one." But accidents often happen precisely when you "think nothing will happen." It could be a small pothole you didn't notice, an electric bike suddenly darting out, or even just losing your balance while turning. As long as you fall, your head could hit the ground.

So, don't find it troublesome, and don't think it looks bad. Compared to your own life safety, your hairstyle or a moment of stuffiness are insignificant. Make it a habit to wear a helmet every time you go cycling; it's the most basic responsibility you have to yourself and your family. Enjoying your ride safely—that's what's most important.