When it comes to rider safety, a helmet isn’t just an accessory – it’s a life-saving tool.
The right helmet can reduce the risk of severe head injuries in case of an accident.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect helmet that meets all your safety needs?
We’ve gathered a few insights and tips to help you choose your helmet.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect helmet that suits your riding style and ensures optimal protection.
Full-face Vs Open-Face helmets
When it comes to helmet safety, the choice between full-face, enduro, downhill helmets, and open-face helmets is crucial due to the varying degrees of protection they offer, especially for the face and jaw areas.
Full-face, enduro, and downhill helmets are widely acknowledged to be safer than open-face helmets. This heightened safety results from their comprehensive coverage, encompassing the face and jaw regions. In contrast, open-face helmets leave the face exposed, rendering it more susceptible to injuries in the event of a crash.
However, the decision between full-face and open-face helmets isn’t solely about safety. Personal preferences, riding styles, and the specific type of riding undertaken play significant roles in making this choice.
Shield or Visor Protection
The inclusion of a shield or visor in full-face helmets serves a dual purpose. Not only does it shield the eyes from wind, debris, and insects, but it also adds an extra layer of safeguarding during accidents. Conversely, a simple jet helmet lacks this protective feature for the eyes and face. In such cases, riders have the option of wearing glasses or a mask as alternative protective measures.
Helmets should be snug but comfortable
A loosely fitting helmet may not remain in place during an accident, increasing your risk of a serious head injury.
On the other hand, an excessively tight-fitting helmet, or one that is too small, will be both uncomfortable and possibly unsafe.
Take your time adjusting your helmet’s chin strap. You may also need to remove or swap padding in motorcycle helmets or adjust the fit using the scroll wheel on bicycle helmets to achieve the perfect balance between comfort and support.
Not all helmets fit the unique shape of every head. Try a different brand or style if you’re having trouble finding a comfortable and secure helmet.
What shells offer the best protection?
Here is a comparison of the three main options for helmet shells:
| Material | Weight | Strength | Durability | Cost |
| Carbon fiber | Lightweight | Strong | Durable | High |
| Fiberglass | Heavier | Less strong | Less durable | Medium |
| ABS | Heaviest | Least strong | Least durable | Low |
Overall, carbon fiber is the best material for bike helmets if you are looking for the lightest and strongest possible helmet.
If you want the best possible protection, a carbon fiber helmet is the way to go. If you are on a tighter budget, a fiberglass or ABS helmet may be a better option.
Which helmet color should you choose?
According to a study coming from the Centre of Studies and Research on Road Safety, wearing brightly colored motorcycle helmets reduces the risk of road accidents. Placing reflective stickers on your helmet or using helmets with reflective parts can also help improve visibility in low-light conditions.
Mips-Secured helmets
The Mips system consists of a low friction layer mounted inside the helmet. In a crash, the low friction layer is designed to move slightly inside the helmet to help redirect forces away from the head. Learn more about MIPS
Helmet Certifications
Selecting the appropriate helmet certification based on the intended activity is crucial. For motorcycle enthusiasts, a full-face helmet that meets ECE 2206, DOT, and CCC certifications and maintains a reasonable weight stands out as one of the safest options available as of September 2023.
This preference is rooted in three factors:
- ECE 2206: This certification integrates the latest advancements in head safety research, ensuring a higher level of protection.
- DOT and CCC: These certifications employ distinct methods to assess impact attenuation and penetration resistance, collectively enhancing the helmet’s safety profile.
- Weight Considerations: In the unfortunate event of a crash, a lighter helmet reduces the risk of neck injury.
For e-bike riders, a helmet certified for bicycle riding is generally acceptable in most countries. However, the Dutch standard NTA 8776:2016 developped for those using speed pedelecs (electric bicycles capable of reaching speeds up to 45 km/h) offers a higher level of protection.
Ultimately, your helmet choice should align with the level of safety required for your specific riding activities, making it imperative to consider the type of helmet, its certifications, and your personal preferences.
For more questions or advice regarding helmet safety, feel free to contact our experts.
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