How to Choose Climbing Helmets

The Black Diamond Capitan climbing helmet handles the kind of abuse its namesake big wall can dish out. There's added coverage on the sides and back. And it has a sleek cradle fit for all-day comfort.
Imported.
| Best Use | Climbing |
|---|---|
| Helmet Style | Climb |
| Helmet Construction | Hybrid |
| Shell Material | 2-piece ABS shell |
| Head Circumference | 21-23 inches |
| Vents | 12 |
| Visor/Brim | No |
| Weight | 10.41 ounces |
| Gender | Unisex |
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
This helmet is ok. It does provide protection, which is it’s intended purpose. But the fit is a bit off for me. Even after adjusting several times, it wants to sit back on my head quite a bit, leaving my forehead exposed. I tried two different sizes, small and medium. Adjusted the liner and the straps. But the problem persists. I climbed in it the other day and scratched it on rock, so I guess I’ll keep it. But I will definitely keep shopping for one that fits me better, and then use this one for a spare. I’ve worn bike helmets, ski helmets, motorcycle helmets, even hard hats while fighting wild land fire, so Im used to adjusting fit. Neither small or medium work for me. But every head is different. Just make sure you try before you buy.
I have used this helmet several times now. I have tried every which way to adjust this helmet. But the truth of the matter is that when I’m climbing or belaying this helmet slides back on my head unless it is so tight under my chin that it leaves strap marks on my face. When I look up the helmet hits my neck and leaves a mark there as well. The only way it works is to wear a baseball cap underneath. I measured my head several times and followed the size guide, so o guess it just doesn’t fit my shape of head. Adjustment is minimal. No ratchet strap, just a slider that opens up with the least amount of pressure. On a positive note, it is light weight and provides good coverage. Headlamp mounts easily. Color is nice, not bright white or orange. Not too hot even in Central Oregon on a 95 degree day.
Wore this climbing outdoors for this first time this past weekend--it fit well and was comfortable while climbing. I was worried about what it would be like since I've only ever climbed indoors but I forgot it was there most of the time. Got a ton of compliments from other climbers on the color It is a pinch tight at my temples, but I was right on the cusp of needing a larger size.
I was confused about how to adjust this helmet. The plastic piece in the back moves down to better cradle your head. Now that I get it the helmet is great...before I was trying to adjust with it up high and it was too hard to adjust and not secure on my head.
I got my mountaineers helmet by Black Diamond at took it for a spin this weekend. I was worried about my head getting too hot but no problem. It was very comfortable and the fit was perfect.
I have really enjoyed this helmet. It fits well and adjusts easy enough. It sits firmly on my head. Have used it for both outdoor climbing and climbing 14ers.