My husband and I are lifelong snowboarders. When we had kids, we knew we’d start them on snowboards rather than skis. What we didn’t know was how difficult it would be to find quality toddler-sized gear. The Anon Define helmet has far-exceeded our expectations and best of all – our kids don’t mind wearing it!
Babies on boards: A new concept
wearing the small/medium Anon Define helmets.
Until recently, the only toddlers on snow were on skis; the equipment simply didn’t exist. Companies like Burton took notice and started developing gear specific to toddlers and young children.
We bought our son his first snowboard when he was eighteen months old. We had no problem finding an 80 centimeter board, and boots in a toddler size 6. There was a plethora of functional (and fashionable) snowsuits. A quick search on Amazon yielded the most amazing baby mittens (Mittyz – check them out here, and read TMM’s Best Winter Gear blog post here) .
But when it came to finding a helmet, we struck out.
When it came to trying on helmets, I hit a wall. I tried half-a-dozen different brands on my toddler; most were so heavy he nearly tipped over! Others just didn’t feel good – and I knew I wanted something that he would keep on his head.
I discovered the Anon Define helmet on a past-year sale, ordered it in a size small/medium, and have never looked back. Oh and the best part? It comes with goggles attached to it! No more lost goggles! I think whoever invented this helmet must be a mama.
Anon Define Helmet Review: What I Love
Goggles that are attached? Yes, please!
Strapper-Keeper Technology
Did I mention that the Anon Define helmet has goggles that are attached? There are many things I love about this helmet, but let me just tell you about the goggles first.
Anon calls it “Strapper-Keeper Technology” but I call it kid proof and mom approved. The straps are attached at either side of the helmet; they do not go all the way around the helmet like regular goggles.
In addition to being attached at the sides, there are guides that keep the goggles from flopping over the back of the helmet. They can be lifted up to rest on the brim, but they can’t dangle off the back.
The straps can still be adjusted to fit a smaller or bigger kiddo, but they never come off.
Lightweight Design
Weight was a huge factor in my buying decision, since I know that my kids are still in that top-heavy toddler phase. Both my three year old and five year old are wearing the size small/medium helmet, which weighs in at 535 grams, including goggles. That’s the same weight as a stick of butter.
Adjustable Fit
The Anon Define helmet incorporates the Boa ratchet system. With the turn of a knob at the base of the helmet, the inside circumference expands or contracts.
The adjustable mechanism is underneath a layer of soft fleece, so even when tightened all the way, the helmet is still comfortable to wear. The small/medium fits a head circumference of 48-51 cm, and the large/extra large fits 52-55cm.
For reference, my son started wearing the helmet at 18 months old and he is still in the same size at age five.
No-Pinch Buckle
The adjustable chin strap is covered in a soft fleece material (removable and washable – another win for us mamas!). The buckle is magnetic, so once the two pieces are in close proximity and aligned, it latches easily and with no pinching.
My three year old has a little difficulty buckling it independently, but my five year old can do it easily.
What I Don’t Love
The price tag
At $135, this is one of the more expensive kids helmet on the market. The first one I bought was a past-season style, and cost slightly less. A search on Amazon yields other kids ski helmets that are less expensive, but most are not as lightweight and none of them have attached goggles.
And as long as the helmet is in good condition with no major crashes, it’s the only one you’ll need to purchase for several years.
The Bottom Line
Burton Snowboards, the parent company to Anon, has been a leader in the snowboard equipment industry since the 70’s. They spend a lot of resources in product development, and their toddler products are the best available.
Does the helmet cost an arm and a leg? Yes. Will you (likely) get several years out if it? Yes. I am always willing to pay a little extra for gear that is safe, comfortable, and will last for years to come, and the Anon Define helmet hits all those marks for me.
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great well done thanks
Thanks for reading – so glad you found it helpful!