Genius Advice

Tips on Buying a Motorcycle Helmet

About Safety

When it comes to buying a motorcycle helmet the most important question is "Will this helmet protect me if I fall or receive a blow to the head?" The only way to be absolutely certain is make sure the helmet is approved by the Department of Transportation, (DOT), or has been Snell rated. DOT approved motorcycle helmets and Snell rated snowmobile helmets undergo almost the same rigorous testing process. The main difference between them is in the way the readings are calculated. Snell rated helmets are typically required for all types of motor sports racing. So if you are planning on racing or riding on the edge of insanity, make sure your helmet bears a Snell rating sticker on the back.

Helmet Types

We will not be discussing shorty, or open face helmets in this article. We are focusing on full face motorcycle helmets, which also can be used for snowmobiling, downhill skiing, auto racing, or any other sport where high speeds are met. Full face helmets provide solid protection for the mouth, chin and jaw area, which explains why they are the most popular choice amongst riders. These style of helmets can come with or without a shield. Most typical size glasses can be worn with a shielded helmet, though slipping them through the eye port can be a delicate matter. If a full face helmet is not equipped with a shield, then goggles should be worn to protect the eyes from debris and wind.

Modular Helmets, commonly known as Flip-up helmets, are designed so the entire front of a the helmet flips up, giving the wearer the ability to talk freely, or slip on a pair of prescription glasses. Some modular helmets come with flip down sunscreens that dramatically cut down on glare and thus reducing eye strain. When the chin bar and shield are down, protection is the highest, but conversely, airflow is at the lowest. Hot steamy breath can quickly fog up a shield, so make sure that the helmet you choose has a well engineered ventilation system that the rider can regulate.

Sizing

Another important step to buying a full face motorcycle helmet is comfort. Most modern DOT approved or Snell rated helmets are comfortable if sized correctly. For online purchasing pay attention to the helmet sizing chart. Don't worry if your new helmet is a smidge on the tight side. Liners and pads will compress during the break-in period.

Cost

Full face motorcycle helmets have a broad price range. For example a Vox DOT approved modular helmet, equipped with a flip down sunscreen, excellent ventilation system, and has a convenient central chin bar button, can be shipped to your doorstep via FedEx 2nd day for $119.95. An ARAI RX7 Corsair Full Face "Nakano Shuriken" on the other hand can ask a price exceding $800 buckaroos. Racers should dig deep to buy the Arai, or other snell rated helmets on the market. For those not interested in catching big air in 5th gear, or having a death wish, can save some money and buy any DOT approved full face helmet that offers the options they are looking for. Having safe head protection, or riding in comfort does not mean you must fork out a handful of Benjamin Franklins.