Helmets Becoming More Common On Local Beaches
Ted Badgery never wore a helmet in the ocean until recently. Now, he rarely surfs without one.
The 12-year-old suffered a serious head injury while surfing near his home at Palm Beach on Sydney's Northern Beaches. He wiped out and was impaled by his surfboard, shattering his skull and leaving him in ICU with a bleed on the brain.
"It was just a normal day, [the surf] wasn't that big," he said. "I went to do a turn and the board came off the back [of the wave], I landed on the bottom and the board just came straight down and hit me in the head."
Ted Badgery is back competing after a serious head injury while surfing (Photo: ABC Gold Coast / Mackenzie Colahan)
After a week in hospital and a year out of the water, he returned to competition last weekend at the Junior Kirra Teams Challenge on the Gold Coast. He won his first heat and his club, North Avalon Surfriders Association, finished fifth overall.
Unlike other sports where protective gear is commonplace, it's rare for surfers to wear helmets.
Ted admitted it was nerve-wracking getting back in the surf, but said his helmet made him feel safe, even if it meant attracting unwanted attention.
"I don't want to get injured again, so when it gets a little bit bigger I will always put it on," he said. "My local crowd all know about my injury and why I'm wearing it, but when I go away to Snapper [Rocks] and stuff, it's a bit weird wearing it."
The gift of confidence
Former world champion Tom Carroll coached Ted and was there on the day of his injury. Carroll pioneered a whitewater rafting helmet at the 1987 Pipe Masters after Floridian surfer Steve 'Beaver' Massafeller suffered a brain injury hitting the bottom during the 1983 Pipe Masters
"I will never forget it," Carroll said. "It was really impactful seeing him in that state — it shocked me."
Three years ago, Carroll came unstuck in a barrel and one of his board's fins sliced his forehead down to the bone. Against his better judgement, he wasn't wearing headgear that session, but he believes it may have saved his life twice before — once on the North Shore when the reef gouged a large chunk out of the back of his helmet, and another time at Teahupo'o when his board penetrated his helmet but he didn't lose consciousness.
"That was really scary — I was lucky I had it on," he said. "When you're pushing yourself in that environment, you don't want to be feeling cautious. It makes it way more dangerous when you're cautious. You really need to be able to feel confident and that's what the helmet started to give me."
Owen Wright wearing a helmet as he drops into Chopes (Photo: World Surf League/Matt Dunbar)
Pros embrace helmets
Owen Wright is perhaps the most high-profile Australian surfer to don a helmet, after making a comeback from a traumatic brain injury in the ocean in 2015. Similarly, Liam O'Brien would have felt self-conscious wearing a helmet when he was young, but now he wears one on the world championship tour.
Owen Wright's Tahitit Pro win came almost four years after he suffered a major brain injury.(Supplied: World Surf League/Matt Dunbar)
Yet the stigma around helmets remains and, while the 24-year-old said he didn't like wearing one at the sand-bottom waves of the Gold Coast, he would usually put one on at powerful, shallow reef breaks.
"When I first started surfing you didn't really see many people wear helmets at all," O'Brien said. "You just want to blend in. You start to feel a little bit insecure when you have got one on because you look a bit different."
"At the end of the day, if it's going to save your life, it's well worth using."
Although helmets have become more widely accepted, O'Brien said many surfers didn't like them as they blocked peripheral vision and made it harder to dive under waves.
"It can affect your perception of the wave. It can cause you to misjudge things and it throws your timing off," he said. "I know a lot of people who have tried helmets, but they couldn't surf the way they wanted to with them on.
"If I'm surfing smaller waves I prefer not to wear it, it can be a little bit annoying."
LOB surfing in Hawaii with a helmet on
Generational shift
Surfing Australia's concussion policy references a US study, which found that although face, head, and neck injuries were the most common surfing injuries, concussions were one of the rarest in the sport.
While helmets have been shown to reduce the risk of skull fractures and cuts, there is limited evidence that they prevent concussion.
Thanks in part to pros like Liam O'Brien, the perception around helmets is starting to change.
"There has been a noticeable change in how many people you will see in the line-up wearing helmets," O'Brien said. "In Hawaii now, at Pipeline, probably more than 50 per cent of the people in the water will have helmets on."
"There is definitely a generational shift in attitudes towards them and I'd say that will only continue as time goes on."
// BERN YOUNG and MACKENZIE COLAHAN
© Australian Broadcasting Corporation. All rights reserved.
Comments
Which helmets does everyone recommend? See a few using soft vs hard helmets, more comfortable I assume but less protective?
Coming from someone with a near-new thirty-year old Gath in the shed, I'd say the soft ones would be better suited to places where lacerations are more likely - i.e crowded waves like the Pass and Snapper - and harder shells better where impact with the bottom is the main danger.
Yeh for my local beachies etc I just wear the soft ones - super comfortable and look ok. If you were in heavy slabs you might want to look at a simba or gath. I am
In Victoria and the other advantage is in winter it is like a hoodie - keeps your head toastie. Also wore in Maldives recently and wasn’t too hot. This is the brand I like https://www.surfstitch.com/dmc-fins-soft-surf-helmet-black-dmcsshbk01.html?
I tried one in the early days and made excuses why I didn't like it. Have been using one occasionally over the last few years and it feels and works really well. It's amazing how much impact the helmet takes away when falling off at high speed. And my head doesn't get sunburnt. Definite worth trying. Not good bagging people out for wearing them
I've worn one for years in Indo and on larger days out on the reefs/points down south and now I mainly body surf and wear one every time. It's definitely saved me from injury multiple times. Gath.
As someone who is on blood thinners full time, a helmet is a must, whether 10ft Gland, 6ft Vooey or 1ft gliding. Here is what I rate as the most user friendly:
https://decathlon.com.au/products/helmet-for-surfing?variant=40917723185...
I'm in the same boat (blood-thinners for life) so been wearing a Gath ever since the operation that necessitated the drugs (10+ years ago now).
Never had any problems with the weight of the Gath or any of the whiplash issues others have spoken about here. In fact now I'm in my 40s and not as concerned about looking like a kook, it doesn't impact my surfs at all.
Been thinking about an upgrade and these look great - thanks for the tip, never seen 'em before.
That helmet above doesn't actually look too bad and well priced too.
Tbh, the biggest hurdle I reckon to people taking up helmets is how they look on and not wishing to stand out.
100 per cent, zen. It was an issue for me back when I had to start wearing one ... until you remember that nobody has time or bandwidth to think about how anyone else looks because everyone's so self conscious, and you can just get on with it.
Ha, so true!
I wear mine every surf, 1ft to 10ft haha more like 4ft. Andy Cap custom, no peripheral vision loss. Gets a bit hot when the water is warm though.
Andy Cap customs are amazing
Yeah mate, chalk and cheese over Gath's IMO
I've worn a Gath for years partly for head protection but also to keep the sun off my bald head and especially for protection from Surfers ear. It does a great job of keeping the water out. Also pretty good for warmth in the winter.
Everyone's head is a different shape though and I reckon the soft versions are probably great for morphing to a range of head shapes. I've had to trim a bit of the EVA foam around the ears on my Gath and another brand didn't really fit at all.
It does take a bit of getting used to with the extra volume around your head. Feels different for duck diving and you may get a bit of a sore neck until you get used to it.
Ironically I've still had a couple of decent head injuries with it on. Brow of the eye and a real hefty blow under my ear from the nose of the board, that one felt close to unconsciousness.
I have Gath that I used to wear on my Indo pilgrimages. Recently coped my own surfboard in the thigh, thought I broke my leg it hit me that hard (been out of the water for a month from that impact). I have wondered what the outcome would of been if it hit me in the head. Time to reconsider and maybe get the Gath out of the cupboard.
bought a gath in the 90's and I could never get around the feeling of my egg being slowly cooked, no doubt the design is a lot better these days
Suffering from an ear infection B4 a trip to Indo in mid 80's. Duck rings me up from Wizsticks surf shop & tells me to come over cause he's got a solution for me! I'm onto my 3rd GATH HAT & my surfers ear hasn't progressed since i began wearing it ALL the TIME (when I Surf)! A few times Iv'e forgotten to put it in the car & low & behold old Murphy's Law has kicked in & I've received several stitches twice over 30yrs. First time board sprang out of the white water after kicking out & diving off resulting in severe laceration under the ear. 2 nd time is in Indo on a 3ft day when an Austrian gentleman dumps his board on a late takeoff with the fin impaling my noggin resulting in external & internal stitches @ the local clinic (which is another GR8 story in itself!)+ Doc orders 10 days out of the water( I lasted about 6days!) Moral of these insights is Gaths prevent surfers ear, pterygiums, skin cancers. lacerations to the skull. & keep U warm in cold water/winds! I can't tell u how many times I've been belted in the head with it on but it has saved me from injury SO many times! And guess what???I don't care what anybody else thinks or says about me wearing a GATH !
How does a gath prevent surfers ear & pterygiums?
Gath Ear Protectors and the Visor for Pterygiums .
A large part of surfers ear is the cold water and the impact of the wind. The Gath also seems to just stop the water getting into my ears. For some reason it works better than a hood and I don't have to use plugs which I don't really like.
Round here where the water is a bit colder most of the old timers wear a hood or helmet pretty much year round largely for it's protection against surfers ear and the added sun protection. No one wants that operation more than once.
I'm with you Groovie, I always wear my Gath and agree with you on the benefits of their use, ie sun protection, preventing surfers ear, head impacts etc. I always feel more comfortable pulling into barrels because if you fall off that board is often flying around inside with you. They don't look much different to hoods that many people wear in cold water down here either.
ANDY CAP does customs
Good idea to wear something, soft water polo helmets seem to be popular... probably good for the runaway finless sans legrop mals at the pass but not so much if you hit the bottom. First time I wore a gath helmet was at urbnsurf, you don't want to hit the concrete bottom.
Gath's are fantastic if you're potentially going to hit something very solid.
It won't take long until most people are wearing them. 99% of all skiers and snowboarders wear them now. That progression took around 20 years.
Andy Caps are the way to go, I love wearing mine and actually often feel uncomfortable without it nowadays. I used to only wear it when it was bigger or on reef breaks but a head knock from my board on a 2ft crowded Sydney beachie resulted in a burst eardrum so now I wear it every single surf.
I have never experienced any extra pulling whilst duckdiving, nor discomfort whilst getting flogged, nor loss of vision as suffered by many helmet users. I can’t think of any notable downsides to my surfing experience, well aside from looks ha ha.
People make such a big deal about the downsides of helmets, are they just are too scared to stand out?
But yeah don’t get a helmet, they definitely will ruin your surfing. And to make it worse everyone will think you look like a total kook!
100% agree Max Wax, burst eardrum as well from my board. Only thing it gets a bit hot but I drilled six 5mm holes in it and that helps. Fill them up with wax when it gets cold.
I feel you with the warmth factor, I just tend to wear a thinner wetsuit than I would compared to if not wearing the helmet. I used to wear 4/3s a lot but now get by with 3/2s plus the helmet in winter.
Interesting!
you eggheadded waxhead kook!!
O Mi Cron what a flapper
your helmet does look great though.
worthy of the money spent
Very happy with it!
Me too, well worth it
Can spot him a mile away!
HOH
Unfortunately helmets don't protect you from leg injuries, a very recent one inflicted on myself by someone throwing their board away in 3ft of foam wash. Don't throw your board I shouted as I took evasive action but alas well and truely nailed, all the way to the shin bone exposed and say 15mm deep
https://imgur.com/a/UqHW0WV
Surf industry lures inexperienced into high risk settings mandating helmets.
Entry level to Event site itself dictates Helmets...
Check pit lane crews those without Helmets feed Tyres to strictly Helmeted Track crews.
https://nbcsports.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/992520a/2147483647/str...
Non helmeted crewman pushing a tyre is distracted & can't engage with incoming racer...(Collision!)
(Surf Comps) Likewise follow the exact same Race Circuit Helmet Laws...
This #1 swellnet exclusive flies under the radar to reveal Helmets are mandated in Surfing / Pro Comps.
Surfing Australia / ISA refuse Pro Photographers entry into surf lineup without Helmets.
Knowingly distracted cannot possibly observe incoming surfer's line to prevent a dissociative collision!
Therefore a Surf Photographer is kitted out as a glorified Speed Bump for a Pro Surfer's ramp...[10]
Whereas WSL interviewer with perfect locks shines outside the lineup as the real Star.
Helmet rule is reasonably consistent across all ride sport access.
Level 1 = Wading a Natural Sporting arena in neutral / moderate regulated low risk setting.
Surfing (Level 2) Waves are High Risk
Level 2 = Risk Aversion (Helmet) Wave-Obstacles (At speed falls into Shallows - near people / rocks)
Examples : (Helmet Buoyancy covering Forehead)
Wave Pool beginners bays are shallow & often mandate Helmets for Kids + All Adult Beginners!
https://thewavehelp.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360011434697-Do-I-have...
Level 2 School Sports > Paddle / Oar Sports
In order to reach Level 2 one must progress from often Helmeted component during Beginners level.
Usually a 2 day Water-Safety / Rescue course
Schools will often refer to Student's Helmet Mandate regulated by [L] Paddle / Surf organisation.
Re : intro...
Schools exhaust safe breaks & now fight over pick of risk level sites > ( Bommies / Shorebreaks)
Meaning : Level 2 Helmet Mandates by default...coz Private school booked out the Posh Resort setting!
Paddle Australia Level 2 Course requirement...Surfing Australia Schools run similar high risk mandates
tbb covered this with being tethered to a Float device or in this case a mandated Buoyant Helmet.
Mandating minimum survival flotation Vest, Helmet or Handplane is still deemed better than none!
This may open questions of approved Adult Soft (vs) Mandated Buoyant Grom'z Safety Helmet
https://paddle.org.au/education/safety-guidelines-v2/#Equipment
https://education.paddle.org.au/schemeAssessmentGuidelines/ag-209-Curren...
Important to add SLSA ran tests on several Helmet Types & some held water to anchor head back.
Plenty of Surf type Helmet tests about...suggest to start there for Advanced Surfers.
Skating / Skateboard Centres / Wave Parks mandate Free Style Skate Helmets (Speed + Height + Fall)
Again which helmet changes from Stack hat (vs) Buoyant Helmet (Different kettle of Fish)
https://smoothstar.com.au/events/urbnsurf-onland-surf-training/
Pro Surfers (Wave Pools)
Wave Parks often extend & encourage free Helmet use to all Pro adult surfers
https://urbnsurf.com/surf/expert/
There is an unsaid 2.1m Height regulation rule governing access / trades / utilities
Meaning any 'overhead' wave height or rides instantly mandate a Helmet (Fall Risk) requirement.
Example : (Snow Boards / Helmets + Leggies on Ski Lifts)
Surfing 2.1m wave pool is fine but ramping or zip lining 2.4m over same pool requires a Helmet.
This is actually a thing in many Wave Pools...Yes! Quite a few Global ventures share such Mandate!
Any wave pool boasting a 2.4m+ Wave pool has no customers (Kelly talks his Wave down...never up!)
That be exactly where the Helmet Law comes into being!
[fact] Helmet mandates reduce active participants by half (Chix by 80%)
That's how much Cycling in Oz suffered from Helmet mandate...Chix School Bike racks are dusty relics!
No one are saying helmets are bad just that Mandates kill freedom...No Feeling-No Joy-No Cyclists!
Don't believe tbb...try marketing a 2.4m State of the Art Pro Wave Pool with mandated Helmets.
Good Luck with that terribly exciting Ghost Train venture!
Pro Surf Comps ( High Risk ) Follows Hazardous Seas Ratings.
SLSA are often debating Helmets / Fluro Singlets...
Oarsmen / Paddlers may be required to Wear Helmets (Re: Hazardous Seas)
However they usually opt to postpone during Hazard Seas as a matter of peer principle!
As in Clubbies shouldn't compete in Big Wave Tour...crew know all about that!
*However! 5 years back Cyclone Drydocked Aussies got on the piss & shat in caps...
tbb'n'all protested as dozens drowned while 'Aussies' best $1B rescue gear was sitting pretty.
Clubbies now turn Heroes & will frontline Flood Disasters as true Watermen...
Here's where you'll find the largest shift towards swift water Helmets
That's a massive change in Frontline Clubbie Helmet policy right there!
One can see this change in progress with mixed odd caps / helmets during transition phase.
Reckon SLSA will order Swift water Helmets / Vests for Next Floods...none will argue!
Just with that alone...never has so many clubbies worn helmets...that's a huge growing market.
https://ausemergencyservices.com.au/emergency-services/surf-life-saving-...
WSL provide Helmets at all times & recommend Helmets for Heavy Reef Breaks...(see Next)
Education / SA / ISA / WSL all recommend Helmet use surfing over Hazardous Reefs
Here are ISA Helmet guidelines for 2024 Olympic Reef Surfing
Must not be over 6 months old (Unsure if that's Manufacture Date or 6 month delayed Stock Date)
Likely that "Accessory" Logo needs to be minimised...[5cm]
Meaning WSL {SIMBA} Helmets + a few other Logos will need downsizing!
Lending thought to National Flag Stamp on Helmets for intense grin & bear it impact.
https://stillmed.olympics.com/media/Documents/Olympic-Games/Paris-2024/I...
Happy to share this swellnet intro on Surfing Helmet Mandates...
Pretty sure it will kick along faster as more Beginners / Frontline / Pros confront added surfing risk!
The pro’s and their coaches will embrace the helmets as soon as they realise they’ll be able to talk to each other during the heats through the hidden integrated communication system LOL
I think some pro tried that back in the day and it was ruled out as cheating.
Dave Mccauley and Daughter.
Layne Beachley and Ken Bradshaw.
Don’t think it was ruled as cheating but certainly frowned upon.
Just an aside on the vision factor peeps, I only use the visor on early morning surfs to protect my eyes from glare ( IN OZ) & flip it up B4 takeoffs. My peripheral vision is 100% whilst wearing my Gath. Whilst in Indo I'll use the visor most surfs moving it up & down when required in order to avoid the glare factor which has prevented Pterygium development.
ANDY CAP’S every day of the week! custom made, doesnt move on ya head, helmet for life
To true mate, it’s all about the fit and it doesn’t take long until it becomes just another part of a surf and soon you feel exposed without it. The part I don’t enjoy is the limitations it put on my hearing when I’m in deep dark water. Also it’s not so hard to take em off during lulls.
Happy happy joy joy.
To true mate, it’s all about the fit and it doesn’t take long until it becomes just another part of a surf and soon you feel exposed without it. The part I don’t enjoy is the limitations it put on my hearing when I’m in deep dark water. Also it’s not so hard to take em off during lulls.
Happy happy joy joy.
Andy Caps
A surfing helmet made to your headshape
comfortable and strong.
0409 355 837
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
https://unhookedwatersports.com.au/products/a-vebodi-surf-hat-impact-cap
that's not an Andy capp ,( if anyone thought it is)
Have you ever been lip pitched, or smashed around in heavy wipeout and then had a headache and felt a bit out of sorts for awhile? That might be concussion. We tend to think of concussion as being the result of big hits and being unconscious but it doesn’t have to be. Smaller impact events like we encounter in most surfs can do it if things go wrong and I suspect some of us get concussion and don’t even realise it. It happened to me and the only reason I know is because a couple of hours later I complained about the headache from the wipeout to a mate who’s a doctor, and he then checked me out to conclude I had concussion.
Talking ISA endorsement for 6 months Olympic Helmet "Sales" prior to Olympic Event.
Obviously flows over into WSL 2024 Cutting edge merch...
All see why WSL / ISA shifted to a more market friendly Olympic merch Venue! (Sell More Shit!)
Couldn't mandate Olympic Concrete Pool Collisions so hit up the Hard heavy Reef cash jackpot instead.
2024 Fav Pro Surfer # Helmet Sales are up...Altogether : "Never saw that coming!"
Guess all this is just the lead up to 2024 Year of Protection from yer Smashed up trashed Local Reef.
https://stillmed.olympics.com/media/Documents/Olympic-Games/Paris-2024/I...
tbb is thinking we may see Surf industry jump on this to exploit WSL / Olympic exposure.
We could see some filthy lucre deals to trial certain Pro helmets in 2024 Pipe + Portugal + Margs.
Notably Portugal with the Smashed Boards...coz Sister EU Olympic Surf market is Boss & buzzin'.
Olympic spin off Surf Therapy Resorts are conjuring up Next level Magic Light Fingered Surf Clinicians.
Mind yer Velcro Clasped Wallets...
Portuguese crew are milking Olympic Surf Packs...reckon they'd exploit 6 months Scalp massage sales.
Just guessin' coz WSL pros are the main prize catch...
Wouldn't be surprised to see your fav' number on WSL / Olympic KASEBERGA Turban Collection.
Surfer #23 is down...repeat Surfer #23 is lost in the wash...we're obliged to cut to a Ad break!
Back live...they found Surfer's #23 Helmet in the jaws of #17 WSL Shark...Lord have mercy.
Edge of yer seat stuff...ratings soar...as Aukus Subs & Channel 7 News Choppers zero in.
More exciting than watching Chopes Olympians glued to their arses for 15 min lulls!
After several Grog branded Helmet Ads...[False Alarm]
Correction : Top Gun's Caddie's dog's helmet was back-washed from Pro's warm up Wave Pool flotilla.
Can of worms when ya trace down this Olympic Helmet branding...
Winter v Summer Olympics or Contestants v Racers (Names v Numbers v Flag v Sponsor) Rights
Enough to know...
WSL could accidentally market "Olympic Helmet merch" via Names / Numbers / Nationality / Sponsor!
Watch 2024 Olympic Pro Helmet Marketing collide with WSL to number yer local lineup pecking order.
Today's Lucky Lotto local lineup draw...
Grid pecking order is locked in same as it ever was but now with helmeted numbers...
(Wave 1) Is allocated to Hodad Star Power #23
(Wave 2) Lands in the lap of Unlucky #13
(Wave 3) Gets mopped up by Lucky #7
Wacky race is on.
Plucky Local Grom : "Oh gee! Sure wish I was upgraded to be a real Pro cattle class Grom!"
Creepy ELO Merch Paddling Peddler : "Psst Grom... Wanna buy a slightly dented #11 GOAT Helmet!"
"Comes with free wild card Entry into all CT comps + Guaranteed Last minute on the buzzer WOTD"
Just wonderin' if Helmet stats were completely up front.
Like it's near impossible for a basher to be hit by one's own unfathomobile.
Near impossible to be hit from a riderless board or anything as plainly obvious.
But more each day are being smashed in the head by own or other's leashed surfer's boards.
In fact we know by Data & self admission Leashed Helmeted Surfers are more likely to invite injuries.
Simply re-read the feature article when in doubt...
Tom Carroll : "It makes it more Dangerous when yer Cautious!"
Tom admits to clocking a higher head blow count all thanx to the confidence of his Helmet...
Don't exactly sound like a Pro Helmet Ad...but honestly matches the more merch more injury data!
Sounds weirdly like an NFL Pro : "My Helmet hurts more, each time I split my skull!"
Least cautious Pro Surfer Tom could make a fortune selling slightly used smashed up Lucky Helmets!
Or helmets to protect swimmers from nearing Shark Shields or Helmets for Wave Pools...& on & on.
Can this get any weirder...hell yeah!
World Cup vengeful Clash > Matilda Ellie's Girlfriend was protected by a Swimming Cap...say wot!
https://keepup.com.au/news/womens-world-cup-news-netherlands-van-de-donk...
Occupational Hazard
So tbb sounds like he's anti Head wear...sure am! Not by theory but born from painful design!
That be because tbb is a 10 year veteran of inescapable Head Harness maiming.
Suffering 10 years of untreatable head injuries from wearing a snug head harness.
Not 10 mins goes by in the last 10 yrs that tbb never felt pain from wearing the blasted Head Harness.
Whole life is upended from masking wounds for public outings to pleading for a hair cut...
Being honest...tbb's self iso stems mostly from not wanting to scare folk with several scalp sores.
Yes! As in weeping or bleeding scalp sores...
tbb never suffered pimple outbreaks & all bodily other sores still heal real quick...very healthy surfer!
That ended the day tbb was fitted with the Qld Health crown of thorns
Wounds emanate directly from the cradle contact points of snug fitting Head Harness!
No salt water surf cured the wounds...actually made them worse!
Can at best combat them with potions & lotions to clear 80% down to 20% for a week tops...
But sadly it quickly mounts to default 50-60% isolating wounds in no time!
Crown of Thorns weeping wounds will puzzle the mortuary...Like was he for real that guy...Holy Shit!
Qld Health say to wash or sanitise straps or Harness Daily.
Only that damp straps cause welting & dryer/micro wave on straps reduces longevity + (Not sanitary)
Not to mention the slightest strap / plastic docking malfunction can foul entire $150 component.
Try doin' that daily...watch yer bank balance drain even faster.
Ask! Who here would strip & sanitize their Helmet on a daily basis...not happening for 101 reasons!
Simply sharing that Daily Helmet use may result in compression point pain wounds & suffering.
Guessing that would kick in from a Mandated 4-6-8 hrs daily use.
Consider > Soldiers / Occupational / Cyclists Helmet & Drivers + Harness wearers
Most suffer from dandruff / itches / Rashes > eventually incurable Sores or worse > Hair Loss! Yikes!
Some folk resort to beanies (tbb) or balaclavas...mostly buys short relief but makes matters worse!
Yer surf helmets should be fine in 2-3hr daily moderation + a head space recovery in yer lay season.
tbb reported losing his mind without head gear for just one week...back wearing it after 2 weeks break.
First & only days, nearing 2 weeks in 10 years of not wearin' a head set!
(Nope! Not long enough for head wounds to heal...such is life!)
I’ve been wearing a gath for ten years. Started wearing it as I was getting burnt on the bald noggin. I wear it every surf now. Saved me a few times when my board has landed on my head.
Just reminding you all that AndyCaps will set you back about $700. Worth it I reckon, but just warning you in case you reach out for one thinking they're the same price as a Gath.
I have been wearing my old gath almost every surf since moving to WA. As a chrome dome I make a choice every surf, hat or helmet and my hat broke which turned out to be good luck. A month or so back I hit the reef with my helmet. No injuries just a saw neck. I didn't hit that hard but it would have been a couple of stitches easy without it. Helmets are pretty common here. Especially at some of the outer reef/bombie spots. Lots of weight in a triple glassed 8 foot gun if one hits you in the head properly your pretty much dead.
Bobbys and Joyos should probably have a Rack of Dozen or Two Gaths or DMCs available for Hire at G.Land
Small Daily Fee to Hire would soon Pay for themselves.
Edit : Actually should be Free...Fuckers are making enough $$ per Season
A barrel rider can benefit from head protection. Anyone going for it, increases the risk of injury...blood pumps straight from the heart up to your brain.!
A cold water surfer needs ear protection or suffer ear infections, then a (ENT surgeon & $5k) for a rebore of ear bone growths about every ten years.
A Gath helmet working for 10 yrs est. current cost is about $19 /year
https://gathsports.com/gath-product-category/gath-helmets/
P.S. Im not sponsored by Gath or Ear Nose Throat (ENT) surgeons
Next Level...way of the world.
8 hrs with Sleep Apnea Head Cradle
1hr Motorcycle Helmet ride to Surf
2 hrs Crowded Reef Break or wave pool Helmet
1 hr Motorcycle Helmet ride to Work
8 hrs Helmet on Hi Rise or Road crew sites!
4 hrs Helmet free Recovery session @ swellnet keys
Just sayin' any crew here could easily be that next guy...
Bloke would live his life in a bubble thinkin' nothin' of it ... Hats off to them!
Would tbb swap his 8hr isolated Helmet bitch for 20hr Sleep/Surf/Work dome existence?
It actually sounds excruciating but oddly enticing if ya get to surf...whateva it takes!
Not saying the crew but tbb & odd band of head gear wearers would envision more to live this life.
Be realistic... More Sea Change
More safety work > Bikes > Sleep apnea > Crowded Reef / Pool surfers = more & more & more head gear!
No one asked for it...reckon few expected so many crew here wearing helmets nor tbb's head gear.
Just happened and keeps happening & one day yer wearin' one & find one in the house...(Huh!)
Kinda like tbb never buys Boogerz , Velcro straps, stack hats or footies but the house is full of 'em?
Got heaps of other Backpacks + harnesses for everything but never bought one!
Tonnes of weird shit that don't make sense...folks weirdly gift it or just dump it...
Just found 6 suits...know nothing about them & never seen me son wear one here at home?
Got about 20 dinning chairs for just one bloke...it dont add up!
All of them have got even more weirder shit on each...hang on...back in a sec...
No Joke ...just found a Mambo Helmet & wearin' it now...just to show how this shit works!
Now taking off me lit arse Mambo Helmet to fit my Sleep Cradle...tbb don't think that's weird!
Find Helmet's at the Pool or anywhere then it creeps into yer car...never worn them.
Way of the World...reckon we all got one or more Helmets in the house...just can't explain why!
Don't really care for them...actually hate them & would love to make a big deal out of it!
But couldn't care less if they take over & defeat us!
Lots of research done on concussion and surf helmets. Tl;dr: The better soft helmets do well.
Ironically, wearing a helmet in large waves can be counterproductive, as the plastic hardshell ones can give your neck a nasty wrench on surface impact (viz Yendor's sore neck above - your melon is lot bigger with a helmet on). I've had a couple of scares even without a helmet to create extra torque.
In shallow reef waves, I think they're a great idea. Might get a Decathlon softie one day.
if wearing a hat makes your neck sore, you better be careful, when the wind blows your head may fall off
I meant from from the twisting of the neck at impact with surface - lip launched on a big wave.
Caution: All Chicken neck surfers, helmets may hurt your neck in wipeouts.
Assumptions:
1. You definitely wouldn’t have hurt your neck from the wipeout without the helmet.
2. Your lack of physical conditioning and bodily maintenance has nothing to do with it.
Spot on clam
Quite a few crew wearing the Avebodi caps on my last trip to Bali.
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/266172391223?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=705-1547...
Just my opinion Re Avebodi and the beaut- looking Decathlons... If the Visor dont flip,it aint worth shit. Paddling into a 6foot bomb & not being able to see down the line is a real " pain in the neck"
Visor ?
Peak...They are Small and would not Interfere with down line Vision ?
Maybe, havent tried them but years ago i had something similar& i noticed when involved in vertical takeoffs, just before " pop- up" i could only see the base of the wave,not further ahead.
2nd that Ray and I used the smallest peak cap I could find, Billabong I think it was. Got clipped a few times because of it. Never had the same issue with my Andy Cap, mind you the vert takeoffs are few and far between these days
Reality Check...tbb has not been surfing for a while & rules change often.
Actually...tbb only became aware by watching Bondi Rescue S17 E10 !
https://10play.com.au/bondi-rescue/episodes/season-17/episode-10/tpv2306...
tbb would never try to surf with a helmet & would unlikely be permitted to surf with a helmet.
That won't surprise surfers but may confound Boardriders.
Helmets Weaponizing Surfers ( As in Bodybasher Cannonballs )
Outta my way Gran...comin' thru!
(Similar to Dwarf tossing!)
Bodysurfing Rules are still emerging daily.
Govts set mandates directed by National / International Surfing Organisations.
Lifeguards follow suit & now classify all Hand Planes as surfcraft and ban them from Beach Flags
tbb & basherz agree & argue Jock Womper Handplanes present as danger amongst swimmers.
Their danger is one can not feel to engage the device to know when or how to respond or abort.
If one can't feel the wave you have next to no control to weave thru crowds of pedestrian waders!
Surfers have versatile wave sense that predict & reshape body & even the wave to surf thru a crowd.
A typical bodybasher will surf more waves & get deeper pitted amongst 1,000's with no collision!
Handplane is a Surf craft with Zero engagement or wave sense that 'trails' a response to the wave.
A dogs body if ya will or back seat passenger...No control of Wave resulting in carnage & injuries.
That's exactly how wave smart Lifeguards see & make the call...too easy!
Soon as a Booger drops knee > Out Punk...You lost control...seen it...that fast!
A Strapped / Fitted helmet falls in the same category and presents untold magnified risk to all!
No! tbb is not declaring that...as said it's decided by Associations like this...
IBSA : No devices of any Types are Allowed (Helmets strap on as with Hand Planes)
So why! 1,001 reasons...tbb exhibits as a free bodybasher & can equally naturally answer that much!
When Surfing in Dolphin Pod Style a Helmeted Body Surfer could harness many unnatural advantages.
But!
Firstly! Helmets are a major risk as bodysurfers have least visual contact.
As creatures wading wash...We rely on 'Hoys & Hi waving signals for urgent energy saving response!
Not hearing a hooter,whistle,warning or wave coming presents as higher danger!
Note Bodysurfers / Clubbie's Caps expose our ears > Helmets that prevent this promote risk!
Example : Water Polo ear guards = Deafening repeat Whistles / Hooters + over 35 hand signals
Helmeted Bodysurf Comp at the Wedge would wake the Town + Aerobic Ref Routines!
Helmeted Boardriders can Lounge priority Discs > Bodysurfers can't see Discs thru backs of Waves?
Surely there are advantages ...Yes! Crafty cheating that promotes Merch ability over Surf ability!
Here's just a few that come immediately to mind...most utilize a Helmet to shield off Surf engagement!
Straight up..it's Anti surfing > Craft Riding like Flippers, Webbed Gloves or Hand Planes.
Flippers are too often unfairly allowed as they Trail...but not so...they too are very much surf weapons!
Zero courting of Ocean Majesty just Bladed Slasher surf flicks...I Slayed the Beast! (Our Hero = Trophy!)
Here's the Anti Surfing Helmeted Naughty List...
* Added intimidation of threatening nature being able to kill another at high speed! A bully!
* Added weaponization to jostle or even hurl & retrieve Helmet with no penalty.
* Added surfcraft shielding from elements > Sun / Heat / Glare / Wind / Rain / Wave / Chop / Spray etc..
* Added surfcraft drive thru waves + back under waves to the line up
* Added surfcraft breathing pocket for Pod surfing
* Added surfcraft Flotation between wave sets & surfing maneuvers
* Added surfcraft Protection by unnaturally deflecting wave from surf sensory organs for turns & speed.
* Added surfcraft protection for full frontal rotational turns
* Added surfcraft Protection for accelerated unnatural speed advantage
* Added surfcraft Designs tailored to rolling on face or Visors as Fins for lazing wave face maneuvering
* Enough tbb ...all get the picture...It's ruled as an anti surfing device amongst free surfers...err...Yep!
Free surfers would at least argue enough to split the pack...can dream!
1m Cyborg Alien Toy surfers with Planes / Fins / Helmets (vs) Last of the 3 or 4 Free Surfers...yew!
When all is said & done...it's less about free surfing comps & just plain common sense!
Surf safety SLSA Officials would campaign to keep pools & Beach flags free from helmets.
Officials mandate against surfing outside of flags and fast remove a high speed helmeted surfer within.
Officials : No brainer...a helmeted free surfer has no place in the ocean or Flags or Free Surf Comps!
Helmeted Boardriders of any terrain can do as they please on 99.9% of Planet as usual! Carry on!
Sorry! tbb hardly has a choice in the matter! Already banned unless helmet is life lined to a Spacecraft!
Probably already knew as much as tbb said he never cared much eitherway...now know why!...well durr!
Really can't see tbb bashing one wave with a helmet before copping marching orders...get out punk!
Think tbb is joking...been Bullied to stop surfing freely in the Flags! Easily cop a ban without a Helmet!
Come see the freak : The surfing Human Cannonball...cartoon meme is not really tbb's gig anyhow!
Maybe partake in a Helmeted Grom tossing Ten Pin Comp at the foam wreckerz rally...Oops! Sorry!
Ive tried Gath years ago and recently the Avbodi and decathlon .
Neck wrench on a wipeout with the gath was enough to sell it, the avbodi was good but the hard inner shell didn't do my chrome dome any favours if it moved around when duck diving ,2mm wettie material siliconed to inside fixed that, but the Decathlon is the best imo, its really comfortable, peak is small and doesn't affect vision at all and its seems to be really dense material but not bulky at all.Plus its very affordable.
Helmets (General) Travel
This is another grey area where some have no bother where others get stung!
These are actual encounters reported alongside + extra upon Policy Guidelines
~Aviation Policy (tbb explained Helmets are becoming more common so Airlines do adapt)
Registration : Frequent Flyers (Policy) Declaration Forms
Insurance : (Helmet is an added risk impediment that requires additional Costs / Clearance!)
~Airport Screening
Helmets are screened at Gates (Often Passengers wear or loop thru Baggage straps to Avoid ?)
Screen for : Stability / Weapons / Sharp Objects / *Size / *Projectile / *Tech
~ Size
* Airline : Helmet must be able to stow under seat / Overhead ( Not always the Case = $Extra )
* Interstate Coaches : Same as Aircraft
* Commuters : Fit under seat or Racks (Not on Lap @ Peak) > Defaulted to Low Risk Off Peak
~Risk
* Projectile : ADF stow / pad Helmets in Overhead Kit Bags + ( Can buy secure Helmet Cases )
* Tech : (Air -Hi Risk) No Metal Parts / inbuilt cams / mikes > Remove IT - Pack Tech in Cargo
See ~Extra fees...for Helmet luggage option/s
~Wearing a Helmet Onboard (Medical)
* Medical Certificates : Exemption
* Body / Swells with Altitude Pressure (Safety Helmets do not Expand / Adapt) > High Risk
~Wearing a Helmet onboard (Safety)
* Safety Helmets : (Warning!) Are not tested / approved for Aviation Use...(Wear at own Risk)
* Cautious advice : Use yer own brainz > Insurance would void a Surf Helmet @ 10km alt...Huh!
* Safety Instruction / Bing sounds : One may be asked to Remove Helmet...(Plan B)
* Projectile > Secure Take off / landing : If it don't fit under seat > Gotta wear it = see Squished Brainz
* Indestructible Design = Handy for Terrorists to smash out Windows.'Miss...I Can't hear the movie!'
~ Wearing an Approved Helmet ( Air Travel -Safety)
* Helicopter Pilots: Risk Terrain are Air Pressure Tested + Extra Padding / Easy Adjust Straps
* Jet Pilots : Helmets as Set Fixed Breathing Components (Not Customized but Adaptable)
* Surf Helmet is Not a Pilot / Airline Passenger Helmet & may Squish yer Brainz...well durr!
~ Important...Airline / Sea / Road Safety > Vests / Harness / Helmets differ greatly for safety risk.
Traveller's familiar Harness / Helmet does not comply across transit! Often presents added Risk!
That's why it's important to check yer Helmet Safety compliance + Fees before any Cross Travel.
~Extra Fees (Luggage fees are common with restricted o/head stow Budget Airlines )
* Helmet Case = $Extra Fee (Tips : Flexi Pouch or Pocketed DIY Kit Strapped to Backpack )
* Age Restriction : Can't force a Kid to wear a Helmet > Stowed as ($Extra overhead Baggage)
Rules often stipulate overhead baggage is reserved for Full paying Needs (Not YoYo Hoverboards)
Gromz are prohibited from laddering shoulders & Stackin' Stack hats on Grumpy passengers
Again...read the fine print...Only Adults can access Big Person's Shit > (Gromz Helmet = $1m Punk)
Don't sweat the Little Stuff & get fleeced big time! (Grom : 'Hi Mum! Dad got taken away..send Money!')
Each passenger / Transit / Nation is different...it instantly defaults to unknown cross reference.
Officials keep updating restrictions / exemptions for Sea Change / Turbulence / Projectile Taxes.
Was probably never a thing but now often need to Exempt or in lieu Tax a Helmet x 100 ways
Consensus : Travel industry stipulate you check Insurance > Registration > Airlines > Ports.
How best to convert Helmet Travel impost for surfing...tbb can best example directly!
Jet Ski helmet is perfectly fine for surfing but a Surf Helmet is unlikely to be approved for JetSki...
Now! Who here can hold a Surfboard + Ski + Helmet...Lost control & Insurance cover = (Dry-docked!)
Might pay to shop around for a universal Helmet Design if ya like Surf Safaris...All say Aye!
Surf Safari ( One Universal Helmet for Odd Job Sites > Bike > Jet Ski > Surfing Reefs...Sorted )
Helmet Travel Advisory Tips...
https://helmethacks.com/can-i-take-a-motorcycle-helmet-on-a-plane/?expan...
https://newhelmets.com/taking-a-helmet-on-a-plane-a-helpful-guide/
I bought a Gath in 1993 for roller blading. It's taken a coupla hits and saved me. Still in great shape. Still reasonably comfortable. Haven't used it surfing. Haven't used anything ever for head protection while surfing, but i think it's a great idea, and i think i will see if the helmet i already got will do the trick. I'll feel a little sheepish, but i'm not out there lookin all cool anyways, so.....
I've often thought about wearing a helmet but I have worried about how they look or how kooky I'd look in one. This way of thinking is pretty silly really. There has been not one negative comment here about how people look in them and when I see people wearing them in the surf I don't make any negative assumptions about them.
I'm going to seriously look at them.
"I'll feel a little sheepish, but i'm not out there lookin all cool anyways, so....."
I think you've already precluded the coolness Wax by admitting you roller bladed.
Freeride - Do you have a Review of your new Helmet
Weight Vision Temperature ETC.
Brief review upcoming in G-land story.
Ohhh nice! Was wondering how you went over there.
Link to Joao Chianca "Pipeline Head Injury"
https://www.swellnet.com/news/swellnet-dispatch/2023/12/04/joao-chianca-...
Recapping the Aussies Helmet Review
Led to the Pink Fluro
* Helmets on Jet Skis / IRB's / Boat Sweeps
There seems to be another Lifeguard Helmet requirement for Rock Break Rescue Squads.
California / NZ/ UK....not found Oz link as yet!
14 California State Parks ~ Rock Break Rescues
Yes...as in State Park Ocean -Swiftwater style mandates (Hybrid Surfbreak cross-over)
[ State Lifeguard ] (Crystal Cove) US.
Custom Pointbreak Helmets with possible [Float assisted] Captain's Radio contact.
Not sure if these PDF Files link .
https://www.crystalcovestatepark.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/2019-Oce...
Expands into Beach-side Rock Cliff Climbing Helmeted Rescues...
https://www.pbmonthly.net/news/story/2021-07-09/longtime-la-jolla-lifegu...
Super Hero Helmeted US Clubbie Chix bossing a Boyz Toyz Kit
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS_urVB5Jpe8ejohBcC...
NZ has very similar Surf Rock Break Helmeted Lifeguards
NZ "Lifeguards" from 'Surf Life Saving Clubs' (Not sure how this crossover works)
Northern Rock Break Rescue Squad of 8 all with Helmets / Floats / Pouch
Raglan / Ahipara / Sumner NZ.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=718073149304920&set=pb.100033067...
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=718072962638272&set=pb.100033067...
https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/experiences/beaches/300482316/its-certain...
This one shows Helmeted Clubbie Chick diving from Rocks into the surf...full on Rock rescue module!
https://www.sumnerslsc.co.nz/lifeguarding
Recapping ...Clubbies require helmets when merging with State Emergency Services
But this is a next level > NZ Emergency Call Out "Helmet" Squad ( Apparently kitted out by Bunnings )
https://www.surflifesaving.org.nz/news/2020/april/covid-19-and-ecos
Important to share the High Powered Media crossover point...
Many annual award winners are High Powered Helmeted Women Lifeguards commanding Boyz Toyz!
Kinda like Chix jumped the Shark as #1 National Helmeted Rescue Heroes...Bang Bang..Right Now!
Got that! (#1 Power Helmet Promotion) Chix are fastest growing Surf Market...get with the Plan!
Repeat : Not just award winners but "Helmeted Profiles of latest greatest Action Heroes"
Possible NZ PM Concerted push to show NZ women as "GI Joe Action Heroes"
Not found any Oz Rock Break Helmeted Surf Lifeguard Units as yet!
Did find a Profiled Helmeted Vic Super Hero Surf Chick...Plenty of Girl Power bossing boyz toyz!
https://blog.lsv.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Ellen-Porter-11.jpg
Soft Top Vic Version
https://www.facebook.com/ogslsc/photos/a.1901080599960414/44497869484230...
Here's a UK Jet Ski Super Hodad Lifeguard saving yer Life...(High Powered Hodad Helmet Promo!)
This ain't no Where's Wally toon > More like James Bond Jet Ski stuntman.
https://rnli.org/-/media/news-centre/2022/sep/23/end_of_the_busy_summer_...
https://rnli.org/news-and-media/2022/september/23/end-of-the-busy-summer...
UK Helmeted Jet Ski pilot towing Helmeted prone Duo (Massive Surf Action Helmet Promo!)
https://www.facebook.com/rnlisouthandeastdevonlifeguards/photos/pb.10006...
UK Helmeted Rock Rescue
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=294102461534105&set=pb.100063066559...
IRB Pool Helmet Promo
https://www.facebook.com/rnlisouthandeastdevonlifeguards/photos/pb.10006...
Schools :
Helmets may be worn for all surf activities!
Helmets 'should be worn' when collision with solid objects such as "Reefs and Structures" is likely.
Thought to include more leading examples by most popular helmet proponents.
Pollies / Business Leaders / Celebs...
Hi-Viz Helmeted Caped Pollie reassures media Scrum at Baked Bean Warehouse.
Not long ago ~ Qldurr Ironman Weather Reporters manhandled beastly cyclonic forces.
Ducking as Roof decapitates disposable Camera Guy...switchin' to Go Pro commando-cam...3/2/1 Action.
Weather God'z umbrella holds perfect form during state of emergency smoko ...while town is splattered.
Those dayz are over...New breed of Natural Disaster Pollies / Reporters.
State of the Art Grand Poobah Hi-Viz Fashion Helmets & Hazmat Suits
Each new Outfit / Helmet is Brighter & more Wizard Like than the last
Cross-over Media / Pollie /Super Hero Capes...count on us to part the seas first!
Pretty hard to ignore that Authorities are mandating more Safety Helmet requirement during Hazards...
Govt Message : Hi-Viz / Helmets should be worn in hazardous zones / surf...etc...
As most surf comps only kick on as Hazardous Surf Warning kicks in...
The perfect storm where two headstrong forces clash head on...can lock in Helmet Mandate...
Helmeted Surf News Reporter will likely beam Shocking Pro's headstrong Headline!
Saw that kauaiian guy got the longest back-door barrell yesterday was wearing a gath helmet
Koa Rothman and the pipeline plastic helmet team, don't like helmets, but they don't realise not all helmets for surfing are (plastic & ) made a generic size? and fit
Simba wouldnt be thrilled with that review! but its just one guys opinion..... ps. i wouldnt like to get my board accidently stuck behind that FacePlate during a big wipeout
Tommy's barrel
est. 50 whitewater fatality's per year (eg. kayak & canoe )
Apparently this company "Sweetprotection" helmet had the highest protection in these lab tests
https://www.sweetprotection.com/eu/en/wanderer-ii-helmet-gloss-white/
PS I am not sponsored by this company
Interesting. In a way a Soft Helmet seems like pointless Half-arsed waste of neoprene but from a structural and physiological point of view it might actually have advantages over an ultra- hard shell reguarding concussions and trauma to cervical vertebrae etc. However Id feel better if it had a layer of something hard in the middle to prevent any penetration type incident from a fin..maybe even a bulletproof fabric,shit,i dunno,whatever dude
Some soft helmets are using a type of rubber that absorbs shock.....I think good but haven't worn one