If the liner or cheek pads move when you take your helmet off, the usual cause is a snap or tab that isn't fully engaged, a fastener that's worn out, or pulling the helmet straight up so the pads drag on your face. Reseat the liner properly and change how you take the helmet off, and it usually stops.
It's worth fixing. A liner that's out of place changes the fit the next time you put the helmet on.
Common causes
A snap isn't fully clicked in
This is the most common reason, especially after washing the liner. One snap half-engaged lets the pad pull out when your cheek drags on it.
Worn snaps or tabs
After lots of removals and washes, snaps can lose their grip and plastic tabs can bend. The liner then pops out too easily.
The helmet is tight on your cheeks
A snug fit is good, but if the cheek pads grip your face tightly, they'll be pulled along when the helmet comes off. That's normal to a point.
How you take it off
Pulling the helmet straight up by the chin bar drags the cheek pads along your face.
How to fix it
- Take the liner out and put it back in properly. Press every snap until you hear or feel it click. Make sure tabs slide fully into their slots.
- Check left and right. Cheek pads are often side-specific. A pad on the wrong side won't seat properly.
- Inspect the fasteners. Look for snaps that are loose, cracked or pulled out of the fabric, and tabs that are bent.
- Replace worn parts. If a snap won't hold, replacement cheek pads or liners from the manufacturer are the proper fix. Don't glue them in.
Take the helmet off the right way
- Undo the strap.
- Hold the strap ends and pull them outward. This spreads the cheek pads away from your face.
- Tilt the helmet back slightly and lift it off, rather than pulling straight up.
This is easier on the liner and on your ears. If your ears fold when you put the helmet on, read why a helmet folds your ears.
Check the fit after reseating
Put the helmet back on, fasten the strap and wear it for a few minutes. It should feel the same as before: snug, even, no new pressure points. If one cheek now feels looser, a pad may still be out of place. See cheek pads that feel uneven.
FAQ
Is it normal for cheek pads to come out a little?
Pads that shift slightly are common. Pads that pull out completely mean a fastener isn't holding.
Can I glue the liner in place?
No. Glue damages the liner and makes it impossible to wash or replace. Use replacement parts.
Does a shifting liner affect safety?
A liner out of place changes the fit, so always reseat it before your next ride.
Why does only one cheek pad come out?
Usually that pad has a snap that isn't fully engaged or has worn loose. Compare it with the other side to spot the difference.
Is it OK to take the helmet off by the chin bar?
Lifting by the chin bar is fine for carrying, but taking the helmet off your head that way drags the cheek pads. Use the strap ends to spread the pads first.
How often should I check the liner?
Every time you wash it, and any time the helmet suddenly feels different when you put it on.
