Petzl Elia helmet

[Rachel]

I wondered if it's just me, or is anyone else having problems with this helmet. Every time I put it on, I adjust it so that it fits perfectly and for about 20 mins or so, it's fine. After that, the straps work themselves loose until it slips around on my head. It's particularly annoying when prussiking, as I've gone from it fitting properly to hanging off the back of my head within 25m.

 

[Fiona]

Hi Rachel,

I have exactly the same thing and actually would tell people to buy the elios and put their hair up rather than buy the girl version if I was recommending helmets.

Tony Seddon suggested putting quite a thick buff under it so I have a fleece one which has reduced the amount it moves. I don't know whether my head is too small or the fleece creates friction but I have found that it helped.

Fiona

 

[Maj]

Rachel,
I have a Petzl Ecrin. After a short while it becomes a little looser, not because the straps have slackened off but because as the straps warm they expand a little. Fortunately the Ecrin has the two adjustment wheels (that I first thought were a bit of a gimmick, but are really useful) to adjust the circumference of the headband and the length of the strap that drops behind the back of the head. When I first put it on I usually need to slacken the wheel adjustments off and then tighten again as the helmet/straps warm up.
Are your straps working loose or is it just expansion due to temperature rise?

Maj.

 

[Rachel]

I'm glad it's not just me! I'm not sure if expansion is playing a part. The side adjusters are definitely not moving, as that was my first assumption. I think it might be that it sits so high on my head that the straps are sitting at an angle rather than flat - hard to explain, but too high above the equator would be a good analogy. I have tried wearing it with a buff, which I would normally do to keep my hair out of my face, and without it. I definitely have more problems without. I have found a solution though - I went on eBay this afternoon and ordered an Ecrin Roc! Back to what I had before and had no problems with.