The following is a repost from the kitesurfing.org list:
"I've got one of thoughs 1 size fits all helmits that has the IKO's apporval as a Kitesurfing Helmit.
I never used it, as I got rid of my board leash"
The following rider also quit using a board leash, in this case within a week of the incredible accident described at:
Click on: http://tinyurl.com/invo
F O R T U N A T E L Y, he had cut his head on a garage door that morning and chose to wear his helmet
to protect the cut. As things turned out, it protected a GREAT DEAL more than that. MANY other riders
have avoided injuries and had them reduced by wearing helmets. Some, such as this rider and myself,
wore them even when neither one of us normally would have worn one at the time. Having had the
Gath literally smashed, broken and flung off of his head, how do you think his skull would have fared
without the helmet? I likely would have died without a helmet and this fellow would have been severely
injured at best. Other riders have had similar experiences at various
points around the world.
Life and kiteboarding can toss out some serious surprises. Be prepared or no, it's your choice. If you are
looking for a helmet, find the BEST, MOST SUITABLE one that you can for kiteboarding. The helmet shell
should be strong, kevlar is ideal but not widely available, light, well fitting, comfortable, well secured, have
low drag and water retention to reduce "bucketing" potential and be well padded. Ideally the helmet shell
should remain intact despite survivable impacts.
What is your head and critically, your brain worth to you? Obtaining used and possibly compromised,
inexpensive helmets isn't a great idea. Polystyrene lined helmets should be thrown away after serious impacts.
How do you know if the helmet has had such an impact or not? If you need a helmet to deal with a lofting
or dragging impact, you REALLY need it and to perform very well. Get the best kit that you can find, your
brain and continued functioning warrant the best in my opinion and experience.