Requirements for the drawstring of sports helmets

1. Material & Durability

Straps must be made of high-strength, abrasion-resistant materials (e.g., nylon, polyester webbing) that resist degradation from sweat, UV exposure, or chemical contact.

Stitching or attachment points (where straps connect to the helmet shell) must be reinforced to prevent tearing under tension.

2. Design & Adjustability

Chin Strap System:

A secure fastening mechanism, typically a double-D ring or buckle system, to ensure the strap stays fastened during impacts. Quick-release buckles (e.g., Fidlock) are allowed if they meet retention strength requirements.

Adjustable straps to fit various head shapes/sizes, with clear manufacturer instructions for proper adjustment (e.g., ensuring 1–2 finger widths of space between the chin and strap when fastened).

Strap Width & Padding:

Straps should be at least 15–25mm wide to distribute pressure evenly across the chin and jawline, reducing chafing or injury risk. Padding may be required for comfort, especially in high-impact sports (e.g., skiing, hockey).

3. Retention & Impact Performance

Tensile Strength:

Straps must withstand minimum tensile forces without breaking or releasing. For example:

CPSC 16 CFR 1203 (bicycle helmets): 889N (200 lbf) for 30 seconds without failure.

CE EN 1078 (bikes/skateboards): 500N for 1 minute, with no buckle slippage or strap breakage.

Stability During Impact:

The strap system must keep the helmet securely positioned on the head during angular or rotational impacts, preventing excessive movement that could cause neck strain or helmet displacement.

4. Safety Standards Compliance

All straps must meet the specific requirements of the target market’s safety certification:

USA (CPSC): Mandates chin strap retention tests and prohibits designs that could snag or cause strangulation.

Europe (CE EN 1078): Requires straps to remain fastened after simulated impacts and UV exposure testing.

Australia/New Zealand (AS/NZS 2063): Includes dynamic impact tests with the strap system to ensure helmet retention.

5. User Instructions & Labeling

• Manufacturers must provide clear guidance on proper strap adjustment, maintenance (e.g., checking for fraying), and replacement intervals.
• Labels must indicate compliance with relevant safety standards and warn against modifying the strap system (e.g., cutting straps for a “looser fit,” which voids safety certification).

Key Risks of Non-Compliance

Inadequate straps can lead to helmet detachment during falls, significantly increasing the risk of head injuries (e.g., concussions, skull fractures).

Loose or poorly adjusted straps may cause the helmet to shift, reducing coverage of critical areas (e.g., the back of the head).