Touring helmets that carry CE EN1077 and/or ASTM F2040 certification meet the same impact standards as resort helmets. The protection level for downhill crashes is equivalent. The differences are in comfort features (less insulation, thinner ear pads) and durability (in-mold shells dent more easily), not in certified impact protection. Some touring helmets with dual EN12492 mountaineering certification actually offer additional protection against overhead penetration hazards that resort helmets don't test for.
Ski Helmet · Backcountry/Touring Helmet
Is a touring helmet safe enough for the descent, or is it less protective than a resort helmet?
Related gear types
If this answer nudged you toward a different style, these guides compare specs and trade-offs.
All-Mountain Ski Helmet
$60 – $280
Versatile helmets designed for general skiing across varied terrain and conditions.
Adjustable ventilationRemovable ear padsGoggle integration strap or clip
Half-Shell Ski Helmet
$50 – $250
Lightweight helmets with soft ear pads instead of hardshell ear coverage for enhanced comfort and hearing.
Soft removable ear padsLighter weight than full-shellBetter ambient hearing
More questions
- Can I use a touring helmet for resort skiing?
- Do I really need headlamp clips on a touring helmet?
- Why are touring helmets so much more expensive than basic resort helmets?
- Should I wear my touring helmet on the uphill, or just put it on for the descent?