THE
JERRY GAP.
Full disclosure: most of us have been there at least once. We're not big fans of all the unwritten ski-style rules out there — but in this case, there's actually a point beyond the jokes.
FOREHEAD
ON DISPLAY.
The Jerry Gap is the space between the front of your helmet and the top of your goggles.
People laugh because it looks a little odd, but the bigger issue is that your helmet may be sitting too loose, too high, or simply doesn't work well with your goggles.
That isn't only a style problem. It can mean cold air on your forehead, snow getting between your helmet and goggles, and a less comfortable day on the mountain.
The closer you can get to zero between your goggles and helmet, the better.
MORE THAN
JUST STYLE.
COMFORT
No gap means less cold wind directly on your forehead.
SAFETY
A correctly positioned helmet is better able to do the job it was designed for.
VISION
A good helmet-goggle fit helps keep unwanted airflow and snow away from your face and lenses.
STYLE
And yes — helmet and goggles simply look better when they fit together properly.
THREE SIMPLE
THINGS.
TRY YOUR GEAR TOGETHER
When buying new goggles or a helmet, test them as a pair. Helmet shapes and goggle shapes vary, and some combinations simply work better than others.
HELMET FIRST
Put your helmet on first and position it correctly. Then add the goggles. It's much easier to feel where the helmet should sit without the goggles getting in the way.
CHECK THE STRAP
Unless you're deliberately going for the park-rat look, keep the strap on the outside and seated in the helmet's strap holder. It keeps everything in place and makes it easier to move the goggles up when you stop.