Here's what Snell says:
"Why should you replace your helmet every five years?
Unused helmets stored in good condition do not automatically expire after five years. Replacing helmets every five years is a judgement call based on testing helmets used by the California Highway Patrol by Dr. George Snively. Wear and tear, the simple act of putting on and taking off helmets, damage the comfort pads and energy absorbing foam liner over time. Helmets with worn-out pads are at least one to two sizes larger than helmets in new condition. A poorly fitted helmet makes it more likely that the helmet will shift too much or even come off the head during a crash impact. For these reasons, Snell recommends replacing helmet after five years of normal use."
Reference: Snell helmets certification - FAQ
Was looking at new helmets yesterday. Man are they ever expensive. The Neotec II's here, haven't started to be discounted yet, even though the III's have come out in Europe. It seems that my ego or head may have shrunk, as I seem to be a medium now rather than a large.
"Why should you replace your helmet every five years?
Unused helmets stored in good condition do not automatically expire after five years. Replacing helmets every five years is a judgement call based on testing helmets used by the California Highway Patrol by Dr. George Snively. Wear and tear, the simple act of putting on and taking off helmets, damage the comfort pads and energy absorbing foam liner over time. Helmets with worn-out pads are at least one to two sizes larger than helmets in new condition. A poorly fitted helmet makes it more likely that the helmet will shift too much or even come off the head during a crash impact. For these reasons, Snell recommends replacing helmet after five years of normal use."
Reference: Snell helmets certification - FAQ
Was looking at new helmets yesterday. Man are they ever expensive. The Neotec II's here, haven't started to be discounted yet, even though the III's have come out in Europe. It seems that my ego or head may have shrunk, as I seem to be a medium now rather than a large.