A helmet has long been an essential piece of climbing equipment. It protects you when you fall and from falling rocks or equipment. There are three types of climbing helmets: the hard-shell helmets consist of a hard plastic shell and a soft inner material. The inner strap system is responsible for cushioning. Foam-shell helmets have a layer of foam that deforms on impact. They are much lighter than hard-shell helmets and more delicate as the foam is usually damaged in a fall or impact. Hybrid shell climbing helmets combine the protective advantages of both helmets with a thin outer shell and cushion with foam on the inside. As with all helmets, the following applies: After a fall, it should definitely be replaced!