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In an effort to improve safety and reduce head injuries in high-risk outdoor sports, such as rock climbing and mountain biking, several states in the U.S. have implemented new helmet laws in 2025.
The new regulations require:
Mandatory helmets for all climbers, bikers, and kayakers under the age of 18.
Stricter helmet standards for adults participating in extreme sports like downhill mountain biking or free solo climbing, where the risk of serious injury is high.
These laws were introduced after a series of high-profile incidents involving fatalities and serious injuries in outdoor sports. The laws are expected to apply not only in state-managed parks but also on private lands where outdoor recreation takes place
Why it matters: These regulations are designed to enhance safety and prevent injuries, particularly for young outdoor enthusiasts. Safety organizations have hailed the new policies as a positive step toward reducing preventable injuries in outdoor sports.
