When wondering how to choose a motorcycle helmet, you should first understand the existing types of motorcycle helmets, their features and the mechanism of the helmet. Before buying, you need to decide which type of helmet is suitable for a specific task, and during the purchase process, choose the right size.
Helmets are divided into two main classes – road and off-road. The former are designed for the convenience of driving a motorcycle on expressways; the latter are distinguished by a high-quality ventilation system; they are convenient to choose for low speeds.
On the outside or inside of the helmet shell, there must be a label with the standards of the following organizations: DOT (American Department of Transportation); SNELL (Snell Foundation); ANSI (Standards Institute of America); which set strict criteria:
penetration, that is, the ability of the motorcycle helmet not to miss the blow of a pointed object; impact, the helmet’s ability to absorb shock; retention, that is, the ability of the chin strap to maintain its position without deformation; peripheral vision, assuming a minimum view of 120º from each side.
Helmet structure
Any motorcycle helmet has several layers:
The inner layer (hygienic) is made of foam rubber and dense fabric impregnated with an antimicrobial compound. Some models have removable parts that allow you to adjust the fit and size of the helmet. The middle layer (most often shock-absorbing foam), which has a scattering ability, prevents a pinpoint hit to the head. This layer largely determines the comfort of the entire helmet. The outer layer, consisting of one piece or laid in multidirectional layers of plastic, with inserts of polycarbonate or made entirely of hard carbon. The last option is the most expensive, but also the most reliable – a person wearing such a helmet is not afraid of the strongest blows.
An important aspect is the number of air ducts in the helmet. Their lack creates sensitive discomfort, and if there is an excess, the extra nozzles can be simply closed. The internal ventilation holes should not be directed into the eyes to prevent dust and moisture from entering – and on the glass, otherwise it will fog up.
A motorcycle helmet cannot completely absorb noise, its level depends on the degree of visor fit, placement of air ducts and other factors.
In addition to the standard transparent visor, there is an additional darkened version – for tourist routes or for the city. The degree of its adherence to the grooves should be checked to avoid future scratches.
Fastening devices are divided into:
simplified (latches, tightening), fixed with one hand, more suitable for urban models; D-rings. They are more difficult to fasten, but much more reliable.
How to choose a cross helmet?
When buying a helmet, one should not lose sight of its main purpose, which does not depend on the specifics of using a motorcycle – to protect the driver’s head. The variety of motorcycle helmets is based on differences in shell construction. The helmet classification includes the following options:
Integral or Full Face. Designed for high speed driving, comfortable for riding sports motorcycles. The helmet is highly streamlined and protects against shock and noise. Depending on the location of the visor, such helmets are divided into racing and touring. Due to the specifics of the driver’s position, the location of the visor in the first case is several centimeters higher. Modular or Flip up. Similar to the first, but with a fully hinged front and a lifting visor. This type of helmet is convenient for tourist trips, as it allows you to drink water and make a call without removing the helmet. But at high speed, the modular emits an unpleasant whistle due to a loose fit, and with prolonged use, the folding part can loosen and fit loosely. Open, Jet or ¾. Helmet for short distances and low speeds. The driver’s face is protected by glass, but the throat is not covered. Half, Braincap or ½. Only the upper part of the head is covered, the degree of protection is weak. Such a helmet is chosen for the sake of creating an image or for leisurely movements outside the city. In most cases, a safety certificate for such helmets is not provided, and manufacturers often warn potential buyers about the inefficiency of using such helmets for their intended purpose. Cross enduro. Equipped with a sun shade and a reinforced front. The helmet has good ventilation, low weight and high protective level. The disadvantages include a visor, which at high speed creates a wing effect and increases the level of injury. Such a helmet is chosen for the sake of creating an image or for leisurely movements outside the city. In most cases, a safety certificate for such helmets is not provided, and manufacturers often warn potential buyers about the inefficiency of using such helmets for their intended purpose. Cross enduro. Equipped with a sun shade and a reinforced front. The helmet has good ventilation, low weight and high protective level. The disadvantages include a visor, which at high speed creates a wing effect and increases the level of injury. Such a helmet is chosen for the sake of creating an image or for leisurely movements outside the city. In most cases, a safety certificate for such helmets is not provided, and manufacturers often warn potential buyers about the inefficiency of using such helmets for their intended purpose. Cross enduro. Equipped with a sun shade and a reinforced front. The helmet has good ventilation, low weight and high protective level. The disadvantages include a visor, which at high speed creates a wing effect and increases the level of injury. Cross enduro. Equipped with a sun shade and a reinforced front. The helmet has good ventilation, low weight and high protective level. The disadvantages include a visor, which at high speed creates a wing effect and increases the level of injury. Cross enduro. Equipped with a sun shade and a reinforced front. The helmet has good ventilation, low weight and high protective level. The disadvantages include a visor, which at high speed creates a wing effect and increases the level of injury.
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What size should the helmet be
Before trying on, it is best to remove earrings or other accessories that may interfere. Position the helmet at waist level with the head hole facing up. Using the thumbs of both hands, stretch the neckline so that your head fits into it and wear the helmet.
In order to determine how comfortable a motorcycle helmet is, you must completely put it on and fasten it to the end of the fastener, and then move the helmet in different directions. If you feel tension on your scalp while moving the helmet, this is the size for you. You can try to pull the strapped helmet to your chest by pulling the hem at the back of the head and then back. If the helmet cannot be removed even by applying force, then the choice is correct. Over time, the helmet wears out, by the end of the first season it can increase by 1-2 sizes and the question will again arise how to choose a motorcycle helmet.
The size of the helmet is too large when:
with strong head movements, the helmet slips; it can be removed with one hand; donning is not accompanied by resistance requiring some effort.
The size of a motorcycle helmet is smaller than necessary if:
it fits too tightly on the head; discomfort is felt, after a few minutes of fitting, itching, rash or even painful sensations appear.
To determine the size of the helmet, the circumference of the driver’s head is measured just above the ear and eyebrow line. The resulting value is checked against the manufacturer’s size table. It is important to keep in mind that the same size may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. It is not recommended to make a purchase without fitting. Even models of the same brand can feel differently, although the size chart indicates their identity. It is worth picking up several models, trying them all on and only then making a final decision.
The tough outer shell and inner pads can absorb most of the force of an impact, but these qualities diminish over time. Therefore, you should not choose a used motorcycle helmet. Models with protruding parts (humps, cutouts, air intakes) dramatically increase the likelihood of injury in an accident. These parts help to reduce noise and turbulence, and are stylish but dangerous if dropped. Therefore, the safest option is a helmet with a smooth surface without protruding parts.
If there is no external damage to the helmet after the impact, you should still buy a new motorcycle helmet. The protective qualities of the damaged helmet, most likely, were greatly reduced due to the sharp compression of the inner foam, and microscopic cracks could appear on the surface, due to which the top layer would not be able to distribute the force of the next impact.
The main task when buying is the choice of a motorcycle helmet with the lowest weight and the greatest strength, suitable for the size and shape of the head of the motorcycle rider. The material of the helmet is not as important as compliance with standards and safety certification.
