How to Buy a Motorcycle Helmet
Understanding the key factors and nuances involved in the selection process ensures comfort and safety on the road. You need to consider size, shape, features, and price.
How to Find the Right Helmet Size
Finding the perfect helmet size is crucial for both comfort and safety. It should fit snugly and not move around on your head while riding. If it’s too loose, you might experience excessive wind noise. If it’s too tight, it can create uncomfortable pressure points.
To measure your head size accurately, use a tape measure and wrap it around your head, just above your eyebrows and ears, and around the widest part of the back of your head. Once you have this measurement, compare it to the size charts provided by different helmet manufacturers. Sizing is not universal, so you could easily be a medium in one brand and small or large in another. Your size could also vary with different helmet designs within the same brand. Use your head measurement to find a size as a starting point.
Additionally, consider your head shape; there are three primary shapes—round oval, intermediate oval, and long oval—with the intermediate oval being the most common. Hold your phone directly over your head and take a picture of the top of your head to get an idea of your head shape. Then, look at the general shape of your head. Trying on helmets and paying attention to how they fit your specific head shape will ensure you find the right size and shape that offers both comfort and security while you ride. If the helmet feels really tight at the front and back of your head, you may need more of an oval shape. If the helmet feels tight on the sides, you may need more of a round shape.
Another thing to keep in mind is that helmets often come in different shell sizes to fit different head sizes within the same model. This reduces manufacturing costs. However, the fewer the shell sizes, the greater the risk of feeling like a bobblehead. Look for a helmet with a higher shell number to have a closer-to-the-head fit.
Choose a Motorcycle Helmet Brand
Some brands consistently adhere to a specific head shape across their product lineup, while others might offer different helmet forms within their various models, which can be a bit perplexing. It’s helpful to research and try on different models from multiple brands. Here is a non-exhaustive list of common brands to help you get started.
- AGV-intermediate oval
- Arai- intermediate oval, long oval
- Bell- round
- Biltwell- round
- HJC- round
- LS2- long oval
- Shark- intermediate oval
- Shoei- intermediate oval
Choose a Helmet Color and Design
Selecting the color and design of your helmet involves several considerations. Opting for a color that enhances visibility on the road is a smart choice, as it improves the ability of other drivers to see you. Some riders prefer plain colors for a classic, understated look, while others prefer bold designs that stand out. Additionally, coordinating your helmet’s color and design with the rest of your riding gear can create a cohesive and stylish look. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, balancing visibility and how you want to express yourself while riding safely.
Get the Right Fit
When trying a helmet on, wear it for 10 to 15 minutes to assess its comfort over time. A helmet that feels comfortable when you initially put it on can develop hot spots the longer you wear it. This is a problem, as the discomfort will distract you while riding. Position it so that the top of the viewport or visor sits just above your eyebrows. Feel for even pressure around your head; any ‘hotspots’ or areas where you feel pain or discomfort indicate an improper fit. Your helmet should feel snug but not excessively tight. Finding a balance where it feels secure without causing discomfort is important.
Helmet Features
Ventilation is a must to keep things cool by regulating airflow. Then, interchangeable cheek pads help you get a custom fit around the face. Removable liners make maintenance a breeze. Changeable visors adapt to different light conditions or can change the look of your helmet. If visibility is a concern, an anti-fog visor might be your go-to. Some helmets come with ear speaker compartments, perfect for music or communication systems. Don’t forget about aerodynamics and wind channels; they help reduce wind noise and keep you steady at higher speeds. Lastly, emergency response quick-release tabs ensure swift helmet removal by responders in case of an accident, prioritizing prompt medical attention.
Motorcycle Helmet Pricing
When it comes to motorcycle helmet pricing, there are options to suit various budgets and preferences. Entry-level brands like HJC, Scorpion, and LS2 offer affordable helmets without compromising quality. These helmets typically cost $200 or less. Moving up, higher-grade options from brands like Shoei, AGV, and Icon provide a balance between quality, features, and cost. These helmets are between $300 and $600. For those seeking top-tier helmets with premium features, high-end brands such as Arai, Schuberth, and X-Lite (by Nolan Group) offer cutting-edge technology and superior craftsmanship, often commanding higher price points. These helmets start about $600-$700 but can easily be several thousand dollars. Each category caters to different needs, ensuring riders can find a helmet that fits their budget while meeting their safety and style requirements.