Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about BangProof helmets, including safety certifications, sizing, care instructions, and more.
🪖 PRODUCT & TECHNOLOGY
1. What makes BangProof helmets different from other helmets?
We built the world’s first soft-shell helmet certified for water sports (CE EN1385) — it looks like a hat, but protects like a helmet.
Instead of hard plastic and styrofoam, we use our own BIAT (BangProof Impact Absorption Technology) — a flexible shell that hardens instantly on impact.
The result? Real protection, zero bulk, and a helmet you’ll actually want to wear.
Other so-called “helmet hats” on the market aren’t helmets at all — they’re bump caps. They don’t meet water sports safety standards and aren’t designed to provide real impact protection. BangProof is.
2. Which sports are BangProof helmets suitable for?
BangProof helmets are certified for compliance with the CE EN 1385 standard, which defines safety requirements for helmets used in non-motorized water sports — including kiteboarding, wakeboarding, wakeskating, surfing, foiling, kayaking, and more.
3. Are BangProof helmets certified for water sports?
Yes — BangProof is the world’s first soft-shell helmet to meet the CE EN 1385 safety standard for water sports.
This certification ensures the helmet provides adequate protection, durability, retention strength, and impact absorption for non-motorized water activities.
You get full protection — without the bulky look or feel.
4. How does BangProof compare to traditional hard-shell helmets?
Traditional water helmets use a rigid plastic shell with EPS (styrofoam) foam inside. They’re stiff, bulky — and often uncomfortable.
BangProof is flexible at rest and adapts naturally to your head shape for a close, pressure-free fit.
In independent Virginia Tech safety testing, BangProof ranked as the #1 soft-shell helmet, outperforming most hard-shell helmets tested.
Compared to some of the most popular hard-shell helmets in the industry, BangProof showed:
- up to 25% better protection on heavy impacts
- up to 50% better protection on low impacts
Traditional EPS helmets are designed for single impact — after one serious hit, the foam compresses permanently and should be replaced.
BangProof maintains its protective properties across multiple impacts, built for real sessions — not just one slam. 🤙
5. What is BIAT technology and how does it protect my head?
BIAT (BangProof Impact Absorption Technology) uses tiny air cells inside a flexible structure.
When you take a hit, the trapped air compresses and stiffens in milliseconds — absorbing impact energy before it reaches your head.
At rest, it stays soft and light, so you barely feel it while riding.
It’s like having a built-in shock absorber — always ready when you need it.
6. Are they suitable for both fresh and salt water?
Yes — BangProof helmets are suitable for both salty and fresh water.
Just remember to rinse them with fresh water after each session to keep them in top shape for longer.
7. Do BangProof helmets protect against sharp objects?
Yes — thanks to an anti-cut Kevlar/Diolen composite layer under the outer fabric.
It protects not only from fins and foils, but also from rocks, reefs, or any sharp edges you might encounter in the water.
8. Does BangProof offer UV protection?
Yes, all BangProof covers are made from UV-resistant fabrics that protect your skin and head from harmful rays during long sunny sessions.
9. What materials is BangProof helmet made of?
We use a multi-layer construction that blends impact-absorbing foam, a Kevlar/Diolen composite layer for anti-cut protection, and soft OEKO-TEX® certified fabrics.
Every material is tested for safety, comfort, and durability.
10. Are BangProof helmets eco-friendly or recyclable?
Our foams are made from renewable materials and designed for easy disposal with household waste.
All fabrics are OEKO-TEX® certified, ensuring they’re safe for you and the environment.
11. How should I clean and care for my helmet?
Rinse it with fresh water after every session.
Let it dry in the shade — that’s all it needs to stay fresh for your next session.
12. Can I use it for sports other than water — like skateboarding or biking?
BangProof is designed only for non-motorized water sports.
We don’t recommend using it for any other activities or applications.
13. How has BangProof been tested?
BangProof was tested by an independent laboratory for compliance with the CE EN 1385 water sports safety standard.
It was also independently evaluated by Virginia Tech where it outperformed most of tested hard-shell helmets.
And beyond the lab — it’s tested and used in real-world conditions by world champions and top athletes like Daniel Grant, Jamie Overbeek, Maxime Giry, Karolina Winkowska, Christophe Tack, Bartosz Czauderna and other elite riders pushing it in the most demanding environments.
14. How did BangProof perform in the Virginia Tech tests?
BangProof was independently tested by Virginia Tech and ranked as the #1 soft-shell helmet.
In their impact testing, BangProof outperformed most hard-shell helmets tested.
Compared to some of the most popular hard-shell models in the industry, it showed:
- up to 25% better protection on heavy impacts
- up to 50% better protection on low impacts
15. How much space does BangProof take in a bag?
BangProof is flat-packable.
You can remove the inner protective insert and pack the helmet nearly flat — saving valuable space in your travel bag or quiver.
Compared to traditional helmets it takes almost no space in the quiver
📏 SIZING & FIT
16. How do I choose the right size?
Check our size chart on the product page — it’s based on head circumference measured just above your ears.
If you’re unsure, grab a soft measuring tape (or a string and a ruler) and double-check your number.
For the best protection and comfort, your helmet should fit snugly but not tight.
If your helmet feels stiff when new (especially in colder weather) — that’s totally normal.
Put it on at home for 15–20 minutes — your body heat will soften the material, letting it adapt naturally to your head shape.
17. I’m between sizes — which one should I pick?
If you prefer a tighter, more secure fit, go for the smaller size.
If you like a looser, more relaxed feel, choose the bigger one.
It’s hard to choose the perfect size without trying it on physically — everyone’s head shape is a bit different. So if you’re not sure, order two sizes and keep the one that fits best.
18. Do you offer helmets for kids?
Yes! Smaller sizes work great for young riders — just make sure to measure carefully before ordering.
BangProof helmets are lightweight, comfortable and look like a regular bucket hat or a cap, so kids actually enjoy wearing them.
19. How to fit a BangProof helmet properly?
Start by adjusting the straps so the helmet sits firmly on your head.
If your helmet feels stiff when new (especially in colder weather) — that’s totally normal.
Put it on at home for 15–20 minutes — your body heat will soften the material, letting it adapt naturally to your head shape.
Once it warms up, it’ll feel like it was made just for you.
It should feel secure and stable, with no movement — but without any pressure points.
20. The helmet feels slightly too small — what should I do?
If it feels a bit tight at first, give it some time.
Wear it indoors for 15–20 minutes — the inner materials will soften and conform to your head as they warm up.
If it still feels uncomfortable after that, it’s best to go one size up for a proper fit.
📦 SHIPPING & ORDERS
21. Where do you ship from?
All BangProof orders ship from our warehouse in Poland (EU).
22. Do you ship worldwide?
Yes — we ship to most countries around the world.
However, some destinations are excluded due to high customs duties or unreliable logistics.
If your country isn’t available at checkout, unfortunately we can’t ship there (yet).
23. How much is shipping and how long does it take?
You can check the exact shipping cost and estimated delivery time at checkout after entering your address.
Delivery times may vary slightly depending on your location and local courier service.
24. How can I track my order?
Once your order ships, you’ll receive a shipping confirmation email with a tracking link.
You can follow your package directly through the courier’s website for real-time updates.
25. My package hasn’t arrived — what should I do?
First, check your tracking link — If the status hasn’t changed for several days, contact us and we’ll help locate it and fix the issue.
26. Can I change my address after placing the order?
We always try to process orders as quickly as possible, which means we can’t always update the address before it’s shipped.
Once the parcel leaves our warehouse, we’re no longer able to modify it.
If you typed the wring address — contact us anyway, and we’ll do our best to help.
27. Can I change or cancel my order?
We always aim to ship fast, so changes or cancellations aren’t always possible before dispatch.
Once your order is shipped, we can’t stop or modify it — but if needed, you can still return it later.
If you realize you need to make a change, reach out to us right away, and we’ll see what we can do.
28. Do I need to pay customs or import duties?
Each country has its own regulations regarding import taxes and duties.
We do not cover these costs — they’re the buyer’s responsibility.
If you’re ordering from outside the EU, please check your local import policy before placing your order.
🔁 RETURNS & EXCHANGES
29. Can I return or exchange my helmet?
Yes — you can return your helmet within 14 business days of receiving it.
30. How do I start a return?
Check our Refund Policy page for full instructions.
Returns should always be sent back to us with tracking, and please include BangProof, your name, and order number on the package.
31. Do I have to pay for return shipping?
Yes — return shipping costs are covered by the customer unless the product is faulty or we made a mistake with your order.
If you’re returning from the EU or elsewhere, please arrange your own courier.
32. Can I exchange for another size or color?
We don’t process direct exchanges.
Please return your current helmet, and once you receive your refund, place a new order in the correct size or color.
33. How long does it take to receive a refund?
After your return is inspected, we process refunds immediately.
Depending on your bank and payment provider, it can take up to 14 business days for the refund to show on your account.
⚙️ WARRANTY & REPAIRS
34. What’s covered under warranty?
Your BangProof helmet is covered by a two-year warranty from the date of purchase.
We guarantee it’s free from manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship when delivered — whether you bought it from a dealer or directly from us.
If something’s wrong because of how it was made, we’ll fix it or replace it — free of charge.
35. How to make a warranty claim?
If you believe your helmet has a defect, just reach out to us directly at shop@bangproof.com.
Please include your order number, a short description of the issue, and clear photos showing the problem.
Our team will review it quickly and let you know how we’ll handle it — usually with a repair or replacement, depending on what’s needed.
36. Important disclaimer
Please don’t modify, repair, or replace parts yourself — it can affect the helmet’s protective performance and void the warranty.
Sun and salt water may naturally cause color fading or minor wear over time — that’s normal and not covered by warranty.
BangProof isn’t responsible for the inherent risks of water sports — helmets reduce danger, but the ride is always yours to own. 🏄♂️
