An analysis of 12 studies of ski helmet use suggests that helmets are effective in reducing the risk of head injury among skiers and snowboarders and found no significant association between helmet use and an increased risk of neck injury, according to an article published by CMAJ, the Canada Medical Association Journal.


“Based on our findings, we encourage the use of helmets among skiers and snowboarders,” the article concluded. “Additional, methodologically rigorous research is required to determine which types of helmets provide the best protection.”


The results come amid continued debate in Canada and elsewhere about the wisdom of mandating helmets for younger skiiers.


“Estimates from numerous countries indicate that head injuries account for 9% to 19%, and neck injuries for 1% to 4%, of all injuries reported by ski patrols and emergency departments,” reads the article. “Rates of head and neck injuries have been reported between 0.09 and 0.46 per 1000 outings. Head and neck injuries are disproportionately represented in cases of severe trauma, and traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of death and serious injury among skiers and snowboarders.”


The article dismissed the so-called “protective effect,” which suggests that the use of helmets may increase the risk of neck injury in a crash or fall. Advocates also suggest the effect may be more evident among children because they have a greater head:body ratio than adults, and the additional size and weight of the helmet may increase the risk of neck injury in an otherwise routine fall.