French law does not lay down any rules on the wearing of helmets when skiing in the mountains, whether for touring (photo), alpine or Nordic. Although not compulsory, helmets are strongly recommended by the authorities and mountain professionals. Yet 40% of skiers, whatever their level, never wear one. To be well protected, the ski helmet must be an approved model (CE EN 1077 standard) and the right size. The life span of a ski helmet varies between three and five years, as it loses its protective characteristics under the effect of UV rays and as it is subjected to impacts.