Who wears / takes a helmet when walking?

[claytonm]

In light of the tragic events yesterday I was wondering who wears / takes a helmet when out walking up the munros? By walking I mean when not using ropes but obviously on ground where an ice axe / crampons are required.

[balgonie]

Good question!
I myself do not use, take or have an helmet out walking, but I suppose as in any sport/ outdoor activity with a portential risk of head injury maybe one should be part of the pack

[claytonm]

Yeah, I don't own one but if there is a risk of slip or fall was thinking it makes sense, especially on the frozen ice.

[The Rodmiester]

As and when you decide to venture on the Cuillin I would suggest you have a helmet with you for some sections just as a precaution.

[Caberfeidh]

I wear one when winter mountaineering, as all activity in the hills in winter conditions is potentially dangerous enough to need a helmet, even if not dangling from ropes. Any slide or slip, much more likely in winter, can result in a head injury. I have been mocked on this site for recommending such, but those who ridicule the idea simply display their ignorance. Also it acts as a hat to deflect cold icy blasts. A liner helps keep your bonce warm too.

[clivegrif]

It does depend on where I am going, but certainly for any rope dangling and then any routes where there is a risk of a plummet or of stuff falling.

Caberfeidh, now thats what I call a helmet!

[Cairngormwanderer]

Caberfeidh, prepare fro some mockery. You go out in winter with a Joe Brown helmet on your head? I used to go climbing with one of those until I got fed up of the chaffing from the neck brace I had to wear.
Seriously, I wouldn't criticise anyone for wearing a helmet in winter, but you should do your neck a favour and get a modern lightweight one.

[IainG]

That one could double up for driving your moped to the hills!

[davy_boy2004]

i wear one if im out on any steep or exposed ground or passing below any cliffs or gullys as you never know whats coming down. doesnt even have to be graded winter ground, have worn mine before going from Meall a'Bhuiridh over to creise, tarmachan ridge and an stuc in winter. i wear a helmet for a living so im used to them and hardly notice that i have one on.

[Jonay]

I do, I took one into the Cuillin in Summer when scrambing alone, and during winter were there's a risk of slipping and tripping. Glad I was wearing one in the alps walking, I tripped and dove head first down a small ledge. Landed head first.

[Caberfeidh]

On my way past Loch Lomond today I stopped in at that dreadful Lomond Shores tourist trap shopping centre. They are selling off boarding/sledging/winter sports helmets for much cheapness - half price at a mere £20. Grab 'em while ye can! They had kids ones too, if ye fear for yer progeny.

[Caberfeidh]

Caberfeidh, now thats what I call a helmet!

You think so? You should see my other one.... (fnarr-fnarr)

[CharlesT]

Interesting thread. Making me consider my own approach. Invariably have worn a helmet when winter climbing and always in the alps (stonefall a real problem, but a direct hit could do for you anyway). Never done so when hill walking in the UK. Guess it's a case of old habits. Maybe I'll stick it in the bottom of the rucksack in future, just in case.

[claytonm]

For £20 it seems rude not to get one!!

[clivegrif]

Caberfeidh, now thats what I call a helmet!

You think so? You should see my other one.... (fnarr-fnarr)

Excellent!

I was wondering whether you relieved a passing despatch rider of the first one. Did you get his BSA as well?