Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide

With the many different types, styles and brands of motorcycle helmets on the market, choosing the right one may be a more difficult task than it was choosing the right motorcycle. Consider the construction and rating system first, then the various styles available and finally how to choose one that is comfortable and fits properly.

Helmet construction and materials

Motorcycle helmets are comprised of a shell and an inner liner. The shell is usually made from a molded polycarbonate plastic or a fiber composite consisting of fiberglass, carbon fiber or a Kevlar-like material. Polycarbonate shells are less expensive to make, which makes them less expensive to buy. Fiberglass and Kevlar helmets are more expensive but also considerably lighter in weight. The inner liner, which is what absorbs shock during a crash, is made of expanded polystyrene, similar to what you find in insulated outdoor drink coolers. This material crushes during impact, so it's important to replace a helmet after it has been involved in a crash.

Helmet rating systems

DOT rating

It is mandatory that all helmets sold in the United States meet standards issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). These standards, developed from guidelines set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), insure that the helmet will withstand significant impact, prevent penetration and have a secure fastening system. If a helmet does not have a DOT certification sticker, don't even consider using it.

Snell standards

Another recognition a helmet can have is Snell certification. This certification is not mandatory and is considered more stringent than DOT standards. This standard was developed in the late 1950s after the death of Pete Snell in a car racing accident. The Snell foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving safety standards. While a Snell approval is not required on a helmet, it is a sign that the manufacturer is following the very best safety practices available.

Other rating systems

Other ratings you may see on helmets include the British Standards Institute (BSI) certification and the European Union (ECE) certification. They are similar to DOT standards and may be considered safe helmets. If you are purchasing a helmet with one of these certifications, make sure you know the origins of the helmet. Some low-quality helmets carry counterfeit certification stickers, so make sure you buy one from a reputable source.

Helmet designs

Full-face helmet

The coverage that a full-face helmetprovides gives a rider the greatest amount of head protection possible. These helmets are based on designs used by professional sports motorcycle road racers and therefore often carry the Snell certification as well as the DOT rating. A full-face helmet protects the neck, ears, eyes, face and chin. In addition, this helmet design offers helps in keeping the rain, wind, bugs, rocks, dirt and dust off your face due to the complete wrap-around design. If you are looking for a full-face helmet, be sure to select one that does not block your peripheral vision. Also, if you wear glasses, make sure the helmet is comfortable while wearing them.

Open-face helmet

An open-face helmet, also known as a three-quarter helmet, protects the head, neck, ears and eyes but does protect the lower face, chin or neck. While there is less coverage, an open-face helmet is much more convenient than a full-face helmet. You can leave the helmet on while drinking, eating, taking photographs or any other activity that involves using your face. This type of helmet also gives you adequate coverage for rain, bugs, dirt and dust, provided you use it with an attachable face shield.

Half-helmet

As the name indicates, this helmet design protects half of your head. To be specific, it protects the top and sides of your head and your ears. Half-helmets are easy to put on and take off and do not obstruct vision at all. Half-helmets are often favored by those who want the "bad boy" look, and they sometimes feature leather ear flaps. There is no protection at all of the face, chin, teeth, nose, ears, neck or eyes, making it far less effective than either the full- or open-face helmets. Still, if you land on the top of your head, it will help you avoid injury.

Beanie helmet

A beanie helmet, also sometimes called a "puddin' bowl," offers the minimum amount of protection a helmet can give you. Basically, it protects the top of your head, leaving your ears, nose, mouth and every other part of your face exposed. The benefit to a beanie helmet is that you can leave it on almost indefinitely since it doesn't interfere with any activities. It is easy to put on and take off and is often less expensive than other types of helmets. Those wishing to wear a beanie helmet should make sure it is DOT approved, as there are many "novelty" helmets of this design that are not made to be used as head protection.

Helmet fit

Just because everybody's head is more or less round doesn't mean that one shape of helmet will fit everyone perfectly. Helmets come in a variety of shapes to fit a variety of head shapes. Most manufacturers have fitting charts, which is a good place to start. Usually the sizes will range from small to extra large. When you try on a helmet, remember that it should be snug and also comfortable. The helmet should be tight against your forehead; you should not be able to put your thumb between the helmet and your forehead. After you've found a helmet with a good fit, get on a motorcycle, or at least assume a riding position, to ensure the helmet does not impact your vision. If you wear glasses, make sure you take that into consideration as well. Finally, make sure you like how it looks. While that may sound superfluous, if you like how it looks, chances are you'll be more apt to wear it when you ride.

Replacing your helmet

An important thing to remember is that motorcycle helmets are designed to be effective for one major impact. If you are in a crash, replace your helmet immediately. Helmets are also affected by age, so it's a good idea to replace your helmet every four to five years even if it hasn't had significant impacts.