Ski Helmet Safety Certifications Explained (ASTM, EN 1077, Snell)

Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes

You’ve seen the stickers. Those little labels on ski helmets with acronyms like ASTM, EN 1077, and Snell. But what do they actually mean? And more importantly, do they matter?

Short answer: Yes, they matter a lot.

Helmet certifications serve as proof that the model has undergone standardized safety evaluations. They’re not just marketing badges—they represent real standards that could protect your brain during a fall or collision. Let’s break down what each certification means and how to choose the right helmet for your needs.

Why Helmet Certifications Exist

Ski helmet certifications ensure that every helmet meets minimum safety requirements before it reaches store shelves. Independent testing organizations put helmets through rigorous trials that simulate real-world impacts.

Each certification standard tests three main areas:

• Impact absorption: Can the helmet cushion your head during a crash?
• Penetration resistance: Will sharp objects pierce through the shell?
• Retention system strength: Does the chin strap stay secure under force?

Different countries developed their own standards over time. The US and Canada use ASTM. Europe uses EN 1077. The Snell Memorial Foundation created a voluntary premium standard. All three aim to keep your head safe, but they take slightly different approaches.

ASTM F2040: The North American Standard

ASTM International created the F2040 standard specifically for ski and snowboard helmets. Most helmets sold in North America carry this certification.

Helmets are tested under multiple impact scenarios and temperatures, which tests performance across different conditions.

Test Type	Purpose	Conditions / Notes

Flat Anvil Impact

Simulates hitting a flat surface (e.g., ice patch)

Multiple impact points; measured for peak acceleration to ensure energy absorption

Hemisphere / Curved Anvil Impact

Simulates hitting a rounded or edge-like surface (e.g., tree branch, pole)

Multiple locations on helmet; checks energy absorption on curved impacts

Penetration Test

Ensures helmet resists sharp object penetration

Uses a pointed striker dropped from a set height; helmet must prevent penetration

Retention System Test

Checks chin strap and buckle strength

Strap must withstand pulling forces without breaking or deforming

Temperature Conditioning

Verifies helmet performance in extreme temps

Tests performed at: • Cold: -10 °C (14 °F) • Ambient: 22 °C (72 °F) • Hot: 50 °C (122 °F)

You’ll find the ASTM certification label inside the helmet, usually on a sewn-in tag or sticker.

EN 1077: The European Standard

The European Committee for Standardization created EN 1077 for alpine skiing and snowboarding helmets. This standard dominates the European market, but many helmets worldwide carry both ASTM and EN certifications.

EN 1077 divides helmets into two classes:

Class A (Higher Coverage & Protection)

• Covers ears and the sides of the head.
• Provides higher impact protection and stronger penetration resistance.
• Typically found in race helmets and some robust all-mountain models.
• Slightly heavier, warmer, and less ventilated.

Class B (More Ventilation & Lighter Weight)

• Covers less of the head—ears are usually uncovered.
• Offers more ventilation, better hearing, and lighter feel.
• Most recreational ski helmets fall into this category.
• Slightly lower protection requirements than Class A.

Test Type	Purpose	Details / Notes

Impact Absorption

Protects head during falls or collisions

Drop tests on various anvils; max acceleration limits differ between Class A & B

Penetration Resistance

Ensures the shell prevents sharp object intrusion

Class A has stricter penetration requirements than Class B

Retention System Strength

Ensures strap and buckle won’t break during an accident

Strap is subjected to static load testing

Field of Vision Requirements

Ensures helmet doesn’t block adequate visibility

Minimum peripheral, upward, and downward visual ranges

Shell Coverage

Defines how much of the head must be protected

Class A → more coverage; Class B → less coverage

EN 1077 testing methods differ slightly from ASTM. The European standard uses different impact speeds and test anvil shapes.

The pass/fail thresholds are similar to ASTM, though not identical. A helmet that passes one standard will usually pass the other, but manufacturers must test for each certification separately if they want to qualify for both.

Snell RS-98 and S-98: The Premium Standard

Here’s where things get interesting. The Snell Memorial Foundation is a nonprofit organization that creates voluntary safety standards. Their ski helmet certifications go beyond what ASTM and EN require.

Snell offers two ski helmet standards:

RS-98: Designed for recreational skiing and snowboarding. This is the one most consumers will encounter.

S-98: Built for competitive and racing applications. This standard is even tougher than RS-98.

What makes Snell different? The testing is more demanding. Snell drops helmets from greater heights and onto harder surfaces. The organization also tests helmets at multiple impact sites to ensure consistent protection across the entire shell.

Feature	Snell S-98	Snell RS-98
Intended Use	Recreational skiing	Alpine racing (high-speed)
Impact Energy Levels	Very high (above ASTM/EN)	Extremely high (Snell’s top snow-sport requirement)
Penetration Resistance	Strict	Even stricter
Roll-Off Test	Required	Required with higher forces
Temperature Conditioning	Cold, hot, wet, ambient	Cold, hot, wet, ambient with higher thresholds
Shell Coverage	Standard coverage	Must withstand race hazards
Helmet Types Usually Certified	High-end recreational helmets	Race helmets only
Protection Level	Excellent	Maximum available

Snell certification costs manufacturers extra time and money. As a result, fewer helmets carry Snell approval. But if you see that Snell sticker, you know the helmet passed stricter tests than required by law.

(Interesting fact: The Snell Foundation was named after Pete Snell, a race car driver who died from head injuries in 1956. His friends created the organization to improve helmet safety across all sports.)

Comparing the Three Standards

All three certifications ensure your helmet meets solid safety benchmarks. They all protect you far better than no helmet at all.

Philosophy: ASTM and EN set legal minimums that balance safety with comfort and cost. Snell pushes beyond these minimums for maximum protection.

Which standard is best? That depends on your priorities. For most skiers, any certified helmet provides excellent protection. If you ski aggressively, at high speeds, or in terrain parks, or just prefer to have higher safety, a Class A EN 1077 offers more protection and a Snell-certified helmet offers even extra peace of mind.

Many premium helmets carry multiple certifications. A helmet marked with ASTM, EN 1077, AND Snell has passed all three testing regimes—a strong indicator of high quality.

What You Should Look For

Shopping for a ski helmet? Follow these guidelines:

Check for certification labels: Look inside the helmet for stickers or tags showing ASTM F2040, EN 1077, or Snell approval. If you don’t see any certification, skip that helmet.

Consider multiple certifications: Helmets with both ASTM and EN 1077 approval have been tested under two different standards. Even better if they add Snell certification.

Prioritize fit: A certified helmet only protects you if it fits correctly. The helmet should sit level on your head, not tilted back. It should feel snug but comfortable. The chin strap should allow one or two fingers between the strap and your chin.

Don’t forget other features: Certifications cover impact protection, but you may also want adjustable vents, goggle compatibility, and audio system compatibility if those matter to you.

Replace after any significant impact: All certifications assume a helmet will protect you once. After a hard crash, replace your helmet even if it looks fine. The foam inside may have compressed, reducing future protection.

Replace every 3-5 years: Foam deteriorates over time from UV exposure, temperature changes, and general wear. Most manufacturers recommend replacement after 3-5 years of use.

The Bottom Line

ASTM F2040, EN 1077, and Snell certifications all ensure your helmet meets safety standards.

Here’s your action plan: Buy a helmet with at least one of these certifications. Consider a higher rated one, especially if your style leans toward high-speed runs, hard charging, or big park features. Make sure it fits properly. Wear it every time you ski or snowboard. Replace it after impacts or every few years.

Your helmet might not be the most glamorous piece of ski gear, but it’s definitely the most important. Choose one that’s certified, fits well, and matches your style. Then get out there and enjoy the mountain—with confidence that your head is protected.