Quick answer

Measure your child's head circumference with a soft tape just above the eyebrows, choose the Noodle V size that matches that number, then fine-tune the fit with the rear dial and chin strap. A correct fit sits level and low in front, covers the back of the head, and stays put when your child shakes their head. Recheck the straps every few rides, because kids grow fast and a loose helmet protects no one.

Measure the head before you choose a size

Wrap a soft measuring tape around the widest part of your child's head, about an inch above the eyebrows and around the back bump. Pull it snug but not tight, and write down the measurement in centimeters. If you are between sizes, size up and use the fit system to take up the extra room. The Noodle V comes in multiple sizes, so match the number on the tape to the size chart rather than guessing from your child's age or clothing size.

Level the helmet before you tighten anything

Set the helmet on your child's head with the front edge just above the eyebrows and the back edge low enough to cover the base of the skull. The Noodle V has extended back-of-head coverage, so you should feel it wrap the lower rear of the head rather than perch on top. If the helmet tilts backward and exposes the forehead, it will slide on impact; fix the position first, then adjust the straps.

Dial in the rear fit system

Turn the rear adjustment dial until the helmet feels snug all the way around without pinching. You want even pressure across the forehead and the back of the head, not a single tight spot. When you let go, the helmet should stay in place if your child nods or looks down. If the dial is already at its tightest and the helmet still moves, the shell is too big and you need a different size.

Adjust the chin strap and side buckles

Center the side buckles just below the earlobes so the straps form a V under each ear. Fasten the chin buckle and tighten until you can fit no more than two fingers under the strap. A strap that is too loose lets the helmet roll forward or backward in a fall, and one that is too tight is uncomfortable enough that kids will fiddle with it. Ask your child to open their mouth wide: the helmet should pull down slightly on the forehead when they do.

Do the shake test before every ride

With the straps fastened, have your child shake their head side to side and nod firmly. The helmet should move with the head and stay level, with no more than a little skin movement at the forehead. If it slides down over the eyes or tips back, redo the dial and strap adjustments. This ten-second check catches loose straps and a stretched fit system before you leave the driveway.

When to refit or replace

Check the fit every month or two, and any time you notice the helmet sitting differently. Kids' heads grow quickly, and a helmet that fit in spring may be too tight by fall. Replace the helmet after any crash that involves a hard hit, even if you cannot see cracks, because the foam may be compressed inside. Also replace it when the straps fray, the dial stops holding tension, or the shell looks brittle.

Step-by-step Noodle V fit routine

  1. Measure the head: Use a soft tape around the widest part of the head, about an inch above the eyebrows. Write the number down and compare it to the Noodle V size chart. Checkpoint: if you are between sizes, size up and use the dial to tighten.
  2. Position the helmet level: Set the helmet low on the forehead and back of the head. The front edge should sit just above the eyebrows, not pushed up like a cap. Mistake to avoid: letting the helmet tilt backward, which leaves the forehead exposed.
  3. Tighten the rear dial: Turn the dial until the helmet feels snug and even all around. It should stay in place when your child nods or looks down. If the dial is maxed out and the helmet still moves, switch to a smaller size.
  4. Set the side buckles and chin strap: Slide the side buckles so they sit just below the earlobes, forming a V under each ear. Fasten the chin buckle and tighten until only two fingers fit under the strap. Check: when your child opens their mouth, the helmet should pull down slightly on the forehead.
  5. Run the shake test: Have your child shake their head side to side and nod. The helmet should move with the head and stay level, not slide over the eyes. Redo the dial and straps if the helmet shifts more than a little.
  6. Recheck the fit regularly: Recheck the fit every month or two and after any growth spurt. Replace the helmet after a hard crash or if the straps, dial, or shell show wear. A helmet that no longer fits or has taken a hit cannot do its job.

Product facts