Originally Posted: June 2024
Some technical climbing packs are equipped with a dedicated attachment system for helmets. This might consist of a small elastic “helmet hammock” or a special arrangement of straps. However, most multi-purpose rucksacks and backpacks—and even many climbing packs—do not come with any specific means of attaching a helmet. After years of trying different ways to attach my climbing helmet, I devised a very simple and inexpensive system suitable for any pack that is equipped with attachment loops on the top lid and for any helmet that has ventilation holes.
My climbing helmet holder consists of only three items:
- A length of nylon cord, approximately 5 to 6 feet long. A standard 66-inch or 72-inch nylon bootlace works very well for this purpose.
- A small fastening clip. I use a small metal “swivel clip” of the type that often comes with a pocket compass, whistle, or miniature flashlight. These can also be purchased at fabric stores and craft stores. A plastic clip could be used instead.
- A spring-loaded toggle, such as those typically used on a drawcord. These can be purchased at most outdoor-supply stores, fabric stores, and craft stores, or you can simply reclaim one from an unused stuff sack.
.
Begin by tying a small loop (an “overhand bight”) at the midpoint of the cord. Next, slip the toggle and clip (in that order) over both ends of the cord and slide them both down toward the midpoint loop. Now, tie another small loop at each end of the cord, as illustrated below.
.
Attach the cord to your backpack by pushing one end of the cord through the attachment points on one side of the lid, then push the other end of the cord through the attachment points on the other side of the lid. I prefer to push the cords in a front-to-back direction, but either direction will work. When the helmet cord is not being used, simply fasten the two end-loops together using the small clip.
.
To attach a climbing helmet to your backpack, thread each end of the cord into the helmet’s front ventilation holes, then route the cords inside the helmet and out through the rear ventilation holes. Clip onto both end-loops of the cord, then cinch the cord snugly using the toggle.
.
…
<<< ————– >>>
Return to Trailcat Tips homepage
Return to Gear Reviews, Packing Lists & Trailcat Tips homepage