ANSI Triathlon with my CPSC helmet?

There probably not going to check it but I would get a new one just to make sure. I can't really tell you on what the difference in certification is...Maybe one is approved to protect at a higher speed crash? Besides why would you pass up an excuse to get a new helmet...like the LG rocket?

$$

Well if moneys an issue (which always seems to be) then you can snag a good aero-shaped helmet at you LBS for like 30 bux.

As per USAT

5.9 Helmets.

(a) Type of Helmet. All participants shall wear a protective head cover, undamaged and unaltered, which meets or exceeds the safety standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Helmets manufactured prior to March 10, 1999 must meet or exceed the safety standards of (i) the American National Standard Institute (ANSI Z-90.4), (ii) The Snell Memorial Foundation (Protective Headgear for Bicycle Users), or (iii) ASTM F-1446 or F-1447, and which is clearly labeled by the manufacturer as satisfying such standards. Removal of helmet cover, if required for that helmet to meet such safety standards, shall constitute an impermissible alteration in violation of this Section 5.9(a). Any violation of this Section 5.9(a) shall result in disqualification.

As Per Race website -

Rules - This is a USA Triathlon monitored course. ANSI approved helmets are required.

I think I should be okay.....still nervous about this though

Edited by justalittletri 2005-08-20 5:06 PM

In 3 years of triathlons I have never seen a race official look at a helmet for an inspection. They make sure you have one and thats it. That being said, call the bike shop and ask them what the difference in certification is.

Being the crazy freak that I am I emailed the RD, my helmet will be fine.

Edited by justalittletri 2005-08-22 11:00 AM

Yep, ANSI was the old standard, CPSC (Consumer Products Safety Council) is the new standard. Your's is OK.

In the one race they checked mine, they don't look very closely anyway. I had dropped my helmet on my way into transition and cracked it (oops!). 15 minutes before transition was about to close, and there isn't much I could do. The guy who checked it for ANSI compatibility and to make sure there it was undamaged barely glanced at it.

For what it is worth, I don't advocate racing in a damaged helmet. I just didn't have a choice.