HELMET CAMS

Filming your ride can be fun, and it can also be crucial if you’re involved in a collision. There’s a wide range of helmet cams available, differing in size, quality and price, so look for one that’s suited to your needs as well as your budget. As the camera is going to be used outside, it has to be waterproof. Make sure you can operate it while wearing gloves – this is where voice activation or using the camera via Bluetooth on your phone helps a lot.

Look for 1080p cameras, which means they have 1080 lines of vertical resolution to give a clear image. For the same reason, a 60 frames per second (FPS) camera gives much sharper pictures, and check the battery life will last long enough to capture your usual rides.

A memory card is essential to record what you film, so count this into your budget. Check out the editing options, too, as some systems are easier to use than others.

The Innovv H5 helmet cam is good value compared with the latest models from some better-known names like GoPro. It can record for up to five hours using the internal battery, or if your bike has a USB port it need never run out of power. Despite the sensible price tag, this camera records in 4k and has image stabilisation.

SAFETY

When they first became popular, there was a question mark over the safety of cameras in a crash. But so long as the camera is correctly mounted that shouldn’t be a problem.

Helmet Cam Buying Tips

Weight – choose a helmet camera that’s not too heavy so it doesn’t cause any strain as you ride.

Safety – a study by the UK’s Transport Research Laboratory shows helmet cams pose no additional risk to rider safety in a crash. Resolution – pick a helmet cam with a high-resolution lens to capture clear, sharp images.

Long life – battery life should match your typical ride. Up to three hours of charge time is usual.

Hands-free – operating the camera with voice commands or through your smartphone makes life simpler, but always make sure you concentrate fully on your riding.