Motorcycle Helmet FAQ

More:  wBW Helmet Reviews  |  Helmet Q&A (Below)  |  For More Information (Below)

The webBikeWorld Motorcycle Helmets page is one of the most popular destinations on the site. 

The subject of motorcycle helmets generates a significant amount of email, with questions and comments about fitting and sizing, noise levels, safety standards and more. 

There's also the occasional Zen-like question: "What's the best helmet?".  Here's a tip: if you find someone who claims to have the answer for that one, run!

Our team of volunteer webBikeWorld  product reviewers are very fortunate because they have access to a wide variety of motorcycle helmets. 

We evaluate and compare more helmet brands and models over the course of a year than many motorcyclists will own during a lifetime of riding. 

The experience has helped us to understand some of the subtle differences in motorcycle helmets which might not be immediately apparent during a quick evaluation in the local motorcycle shop. 

We've come to understand some of the issues that, in our opinion, are important to consider when choosing a motorcycle helmet, and this page is an attempt to convey that experience into something meaningful for those who don't have the same opportunities. 

Check back often for new information and updates as we learn more -- motorcycle helmet technology is continuously evolving, so there's always something new to learn about and to report.

Motorcycle Helmet Safety News:  New Snell 2010 standard released!  |   New SHARP motorcycle helmet testing scheme and rating system now available in the UK  |  Snell and FIA to release new safety standards for children's helmets  |  Ruminations on motorcycle clothing safety standards  |  New ACU Five Star motorcycle helmet safety standard to replace the ACU Gold sticker; combines Snell and ECE 22.05 helmet safety standards.

Do inexpensive DOT-approved helmets protect better than helmets than expensive Snell-approved helmets?  The June 2005 Motorcyclist magazine addressed this controversy.  That issue contains a detailed article on an extensive test that was conducted on 16 different motorcycle helmets, ranging from the $89.00 Z1R (wBW review) to the $700.00 Schuberth S1 (wBW review). 

Their conclusion is that the inexpensive, polycarbonate shell Z1R transferred an average of 152Gs to the head-form, vs. 211Gs of the Snell-approved Scorpion EXO-700. 

Also, the UK's RIDE magazine tested 28 helmets in the May 2005 issue.  While the testing methodology was slightly different, they also found that the HJC AC-11 provided the second best impact absorption of the lot.  Could it be that a motorcycle helmet doesn't necessarily have to be expensive to provide good protection?

There's much, much more to the story, and we strongly suggest reading both articles and studying this subject before you buy your next helmet.  One of the conclusions in the Motorcyclist magazine article is that a softer polycarbonate DOT-only approved helmet may provide the highest levels of protection.

Motorcycle Helmet Sizing, Shapes and Comfort
Choosing a motorcycle helmet would be easy if it was simply matter of picking out a size and a color.  Unfortunately, different brands of helmets or even different models within the same brand can have a completely different fit and feel – and cost has nothing to do with it, because some of the least inexpensive helmets will fit and feel better than helmets costing twice as much or more. 

Apparently, many motorcyclists don’t realize that in addition to size, motorcycle helmets come in a variety of different internal shapes. 

Shape is one of the most important factors to understand when purchasing a motorcycle helmet.  Helmets are expensive, and if you can only own one, it should be the highest quality, best fitting helmet you can find within your budget constraints (we'll discuss head shapes in more detail below).

In fact, it's almost impossible to find the "perfect" fit, or even an acceptable fit, without trying on at least several different helmets and wearing each one for an extended period of time.  Even a helmet that feels great in the shop may feel like a medieval torture device after only a few minutes on a motorcycle. 

Obviously, the problem of finding a helmet with the correct fit will be compounded when purchasing from an online vendor, because the sale is usually completed without actually seeing the helmet and without trying it on. 

Safety is the primary reason for wearing a motorcycle helmet, but one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new helmet is comfort.  Any protection that a helmet can offer is of no value if it is too uncomfortable to wear. 

We have a wacky theory for why people like to ride motorcycles, and it goes like this: The act of riding is a form of meditation, because the concentration that's required to safely ride a motorcycle tends to focus the mind in a way that eliminates other mental distractions that might interfere with the mission. 

This creates a single-mindedness that, in effect, displaces the continuous stream of thoughts that normally flow through our consciousness. 

Thoughts about what to eat, who to meet, and worries about the common stresses of everyday life, such as pressures from work and home, disappear from our minds during the ride, because the concentration that's necessary to focus on the ride pushes those thoughts far into the background. 

The result is that the mind becomes refreshed after a ride just like it would after a session of formal meditation or a relaxing vacation.

Just like some people get "hooked" on meditation, motorcyclists get hooked on riding because of the mental relief that it brings.  I wouldn't be surprised if someone discovers that endorphins or something are released during the act of riding.  I'm sure you've noticed that you can't "zone out" on a motorcycle like you can when driving a car. 

Riding safe means being focused and alert at all times – which is one of the reasons why it's so important to stop and rest at frequent intervals when riding a motorcycle on a long trip.

What does this have to do with motorcycle helmets?  The high levels of concentration and focus that are necessary to pilot a motorcycle mean that any distraction, no matter how subtle, can actually become a safety hazard.  To borrow from Keith Code in his book "A Twist of the Wrist", you start out with, say, $10.00 worth of concentration.  You can't have any more, but you certainly can have a lot less. 

Start taking away a few bucks here and a few bucks there, and before you know it, your subconscious stress levels are building and you're focusing more on the distractions than on the ride. 

Some distractions may be barely noticeable at first, such as an uncomfortable glove, a leather motorcycle jacket arm that has a slight binding, or a wet boot.  But enough distractions can cause a 5 dollar loss of concentration just when you need all 10 bucks worth.   Since lack of concentration and focus is one of the causes of motorcycle accidents, this becomes a serious issue.

This is confirmed by the famous Hurt study of the causes of motorcycle accidents.  The study found that approximately one-fourth of the motorcycle accidents were single vehicle accidents involving the motorcycle colliding with the roadway or some fixed object in the environment. 

Of these accidents, the majority were caused by rider error, typically a "slideout" (their words) and fall due to over-braking or running wide on a curve due to excess speed or under-cornering.  How many of these accidents are caused due to a loss of concentration on the job at hand?

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We're not claiming that a comfortable motorcycle helmet can prevent motorcycle accidents.  But the goal should certainly be to create an environment that minimizes unnecessary distractions by trying to gain as comfort as possible during the ride.

Comfort has several factors.  For example, the material that makes up the motorcycle helmet's liner should feel comfortable against the skin.  The internal padding of the helmet should act as a comfortable cushion between the head and the helmet internals, and the liner shape should perfectly match your head shape.  The perfect helmet would be so comfortable that the rider would forget that it’s there. 

The internal helmet shell structure on poorly designed helmets can have protrusions or shapes that press through the padding and into a sensitive area on your head and cause pain, rawness and headaches, so there should be no pressure points from these areas.   

The chin strap should be comfortable and have smooth padding that doesn't rub the neck.  The visor should have an opening that doesn't block the vision and which can be easily adjusted for air flow.  And the helmet shouldn't be too hot or too drafty.

In our experience, it can take at least up to an hour of actual riding to determine whether a motorcycle helmet will have an acceptable level of comfort.  Therefore, we recommend that you try before you buy.  Forget about being self-conscious, and try wearing the helmet at a local motorcycle shop for at least 30 to 45 minutes to minimally determine if it will be comfortable. 

Many helmets will feel comfortable (or not) for the first minute or so, but be aware of any "hot spots" or pressure points that develop over time.  Make sure there's enough front-to-back room so that the chin isn’t pressing up against the inside of the chin bar. 

Try clenching your teeth -- the helmet should provide enough room for you to keep your mouth closed without undue discomfort.  And buckle it up, to see how the attachment system works and to make sure the chin strap is acceptable. 

Note that a comfortable fit in the motorcycle shop still can't duplicate the riding experience, because of factors like noise and wind pressure that can greatly affect helmet fit and comfort, but it's better than buying a helmet site unseen.

Round Earth Oval Egg Reverse Egg Exaggerated Human Head Shapes as viewed from front or back of head (elevation plan).  See the Motorcycle Helmet Weights page for comparison chart.

Know Your Head Shape
Although human heads have an infinite variety of shapes and sizes, they unfortunately can't be custom ordered or exchanged - at least not quite yet!  You're stuck with what you came with.

It's our opinion that head shapes can be grouped into five basic categories with infinite variations. 

It's important to know your head shape and which helmet brand and model will fit by matching your head shape to the helmet's internal shape.  Not every helmet will fit the same, and almost every helmet brand and model is different. 

This isn't to say that head shapes only match these categories.  Like many natural occurrences, head shapes fit into a normal distribution.  There are very narrow, “long oval” head shapes, and there are very wide “earth” head shapes, and every combination in between.  It's possible to have combinations of any and all of these shapes in an infinite number of variations. 

Fortunately, many motorcycle helmets are available with internal shapes that roughly match these head categories, although most helmets can be characterized as having an "oval" or "round" shaped profile using the elevation view (e.g., if the head was sliced vertically from top to bottom).

New webBikeWorld Helmet Internal Shape Evaluation Format
June 2009 - We've been playing with a new format for evaluating the internal shape of motorcycle helmets, based on the 110+ helmets we've evaluated over the years.  If this works out, the fit descriptions on the webBikeWorld Motorcycle Helmet Weights page will change to make them compatible.

Here's an example on how a chart might look in a helmet review; this was taken from our Nolan N43 review:

Some helmets can be slightly modified with optional padding available from the manufacturer.  The problem is that there doesn't seem to be much logic to the design of motorcycle helmet internals, especially at the lower price points.  Color, graphics and cool-looking features apparently drive sales, rather than important factors like comfort, shape and perceived noise levels. 

Keep in mind that there is no universally recognized standard for describing head and helmet shapes, and, in fact, there are probably helmet manufacturers who will disagree with our opinions regarding the most common shapes.  For example, manufacturers might be concerned about liability problems if they sold one of their "round" helmets to someone with, for example, an "oval" shaped head. 

If the rider became injured in a fall, who knows what liability issues might arise?  The bottom line is that if a manufacturer claims that their helmet is designed for a round head, there's no real way of knowing what they mean by "round".

Profit issues motivate the helmet manufacturers, especially at the lower end, to sell helmets with a generic shape that will meet the minimum fit requirements for the maximum number of potential customers.  This is an important factor, because the generic internal helmet shape may not fit your individual head. 

This problem is compounded because each helmet manufacturer may have a slightly different idea of the generic shape, and each model within a brand can fit differently than its shelf mates.  That's why the chances of finding a good fit increase as the number of different brands and models of helmet are tried on prior to purchase.

Some manufacturers, like Arai, have developed helmet models that are specifically engineered to fit different head shapes, and they use this as a market differentiator.  As far as we know, Arai is the only manufacturer to capitalize on internal helmet shapes as a selling point. 

It remains a mystery as to why other manufacturers don't exploit this obvious market need, or at least offer a variety of helmet liners for riders to develop their own semi-custom shapes. 

Here's the Arai Tecs III document (.pdf) from Arai Europe with a huge amount of information on how Arai helmets are made, head shape information and more; note that sometimes the same helmet model may have different internal shapes, depending upon the country where it will be sold.

Note that our description of helmet head shapes is different than Arai's.  Arai describes their head shapes based on head circumference (front to back or side to side).  Our head shapes (illustrated above) show the head in an elevation plan view; i.e., looking at the head from the front or back.  Our opinion is that matching both described head profiles to the helmet is crucial for a comfortable fit, although many helmets seem vary in the elevation view dimensions more than they do for circumference.

Both methods of describing head shapes are somewhat compatible.  For example, Arai states: "The traditional Arai fit - the "Long Oval" - For heads whose length is distinctly narrow side-to-side, combined with a longer front to back measurement".  Consider that a side-to-side profile is similar to what is described in our illustrations by looking at the head shape from head-on.

Our descriptions are based on years of experience with several webBikeWorld evaluators who help with the product reviews.  We evaluate many helmets during the course of a year, which helps us develop a good understanding of shapes.  And our feeling is that the top-to-bottom head shape is very important with regards to fit.

Don't forget that all the information we provide is our opinion, based on experience, and your experience may differ!

Anyway, back to the five categories of head shapes.  We've arbitrarily labeled the different head shape groupings and have given them the following descriptions (in no particular order):

• Round - Shape A in the matrix above. 

• Oval - Sometimes known as "long oval", which is said to be the most common American head shape;

• Earth - The Earth shaped head is somewhat wider in the middle, approximately near the temples;

• Egg - Wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

• Reverse Egg - Slightly narrower at the top than at the bottom.

These are the designations we use to define helmet shapes in webBikeWorld helmet reviews.  For example, it may be our opinion that a particular motorcycle helmet's shape is best suited for round shaped heads, like the OGK FF-3.  The FF-3 fits a round or earth shaped head just about perfectly.  But don't forget that not all heads -- or helmets -- exactly fit these arbitrary shape definitions. 

Another example is the Shoei X-11.  It's our opinion that this helmet will fit a round or oval head shape best.  Here's the disclaimer: the manufacturers of these and any other helmets that we review may completely disagree with us.  Don't forget, we usually only see one example of one helmet model, so your experience may be different than ours.  But we think we have enough experience with a wide variety of helmet shapes and designs to be pretty sure about the way we call it.

Remember that in the absence of scientific proof, discussions about motorcycle helmets are simply opinion, and ours is just that.  Your experience may be completely different than ours regarding motorcycle helmet fit, perceptions of noise levels, air flow and any other factor.

Safety
The webBikeWorld Motorcycle Safety page has much more information on issues related to motorcycle and helmet safety, including links to articles and information on helmet safety standards and testing. 

And don't forget to visit the webBikeWorld Motorcycle Books page, with information and reviews on books about motorcycle riding, racing and skill development for new and seasoned riders.  The motorcycle riding skills books are very popular webBikeWorld destinations.

Standards and Certifications
Here's a brief discussion of the three most common helmet safety standards and certifications: DOT, Snell and ECE 22.05.  More information can be found on the Motorcycle Safety page.

The most common certification procedure for motorcycle helmets is outlined in the U.S.A. is the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standard.  A listing of motorcycle helmets meeting DOT standards is available for download from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

To obtain the right to place the "DOT" sticker on the back of a motorcycle helmet, the manufacturer must meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) known as FMVSS 218 (49CFR571.218).  FMVSS 218 describes in great detail the requirements for "DOT" certification of all helmets sold in the United States for use by motorcyclists.  Helmets that do not meet the minimal DOT standards may not be sold as "motorcycle helmets" in the U.S.A.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) have proposed new motorcycle helmet labeling requirements for the familiar "DOT" sticker in 2008.  See this wBW page for more information.

The Snell Memorial Foundation is an additional source of helmet safety standards which allow helmets to meet "Snell approval".   Snell standards are somewhat different than FMVSS 218.  Meeting Snell standards is voluntary, and doesn't avoid the necessity for every helmet sold in the U.S.A. to meet DOT standards. 

As of this writing, the Snell certification is called M2005.  Snell has just released (July 2009) the Snell 2010 standard, and helmets will start meeting those standards in the Fall of 2009.

Snell also lists a comparison of DOT vs. Snell vs. BSI 6658:1985 vs. ECE 22.05 requirements for certification. 

Snell revises their standard on occasion, and the Snell 2010 standard will be a fairly dramatic evolution of the Snell 2005 standard. 

Snell has an information page describing some of the differences; they say that the "Snell M2005 helmets sized for the ISO J head form may continue to meet the requirements" of the Snell 2010 standard, "but helmets intended for smaller head sizes may have difficulty in flat impact testing and helmets for larger head sizes may have difficulty with hemispherical impact testing."

Here's the final draft of the Snell 2010 standard.

All motorcycle helmets sold in the U.S.A. must meet DOT standards, but they are not required to meet Snell standards.  A motorcycle helmet that meets both DOT and Snell standards may have gone through different testing schemes, but may not necessarily be superior to helmets that meet only the DOT standard, although many motorcyclists look for helmets that meet both DOT and Snell standards.  Snell publishes a listing of motorcycle helmets that are Snell certified on their website. 

There's some level of controversy regarding which standard or testing regime is the "best", and it gets more complicated if you consider the European ECE 22.05 standard.  For example, it's our understanding that Snell uses an edge anvil test that is not required in the DOT standard. 

You may hear different opinions about this particular test, and some manufacturers claim that a helmet designed to meet the Snell edge anvil test may end up being heavier than the same model designed to meet DOT-only or ECE 22.05. 

Heavier helmets may not be as desirable as lighter helmets (see below), and may cause different types of trauma in case of an accident. 

One more certification standard that you may also come across is the British Standards Institute (BSI) standard BSI 6658:1985.  Here's an interesting comparison study (.pdf file) by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation comparing the forces transmitted to helmets that meet different safety standards.  It's our understanding that this certification is being superseded by ECE 22.05.

SHARP - Safety Helmet Assessment Rating Programme
The new SHARP (Safety Helmet and Assessment Rating Programme) website is up and running in the UK and it describes the new 5-Star motorcycle helmet safety standard; see our SHARP page for more information.

Other Helmet Safety Standards
Hong Kong takes an interesting approach to motorcycle helmet safety standards; they accept many worldwide standards, according to Chapter 374F, Schedule 1 of the Traffic Safety Regulations.  The standards that are accepted include:

• Australian Standard AS/NZS 1698 (here's some information on Australian motorcycle helmet safety standards from Standards Australia);

• American National Standards Institute Z90.1-1966, Z90.1-1970 and Z90.1-1971;

• Institute Belge De Normalization BENOR NBN 626;

• Deutsche Normen DIN 4848;

• French National Standard AFNOR NFS 72-301;

• Safety Helmet Council of America (SHCA) Certification;

• Japanese Industrial Standard JIS T 8133:1970-2000 for full type protective helmets for drivers and passengers of motorcycles;

• Australian Standard AS 1698-1988.

Motorcycle Helmets and Perceived Noise
Helmet noise is a topic unto itself, and we have recently developed an entire page devoted to this subject (the section on helmet noise formerly seen here has been moved to the new page). 

See the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Noise page for more information and for a comparison of motorcycle helmet noise levels.  We have started to experiment with recording helmet noise, and you can download MP3 files that were recorded in stereo inside a helmet while riding.

Also, be sure and visit the webBikeWorld Earplugs and Hearing Protection page for information about choosing and wearing earplugs and for a listing of webBikeWorld earplug reviews.  Helmet noise can be somewhat mitigated with a wind blocker; read the webBikeWorld review of the Windjammer helmet wind blocker

Motorcycle helmet vents can be as simple as these top vents on the ROOF LeMans...

...or as complex as this multi-adjustable hinged front venting system on the X-Lite X-901.

Venting
Back in the old days, motorcyclists didn't have to worry about venting and air flow, because all helmets were open-face.  Bell claims to have designed the first full-face helmet in 1966, and full-face helmets started appearing on the heads of motorcyclists in the 1970's.  The first full-face helmets were heavy and they had shapes that made the rider look something like a deep-sea diver.  Venting?  Sure, open the visor!

Motorcycle helmet air vents now come in all shapes and sizes, and the flow of air through a helmet is considered to be an important comfort factor. 

No standard for vent shapes exists and there doesn't seem to be any particular system that works better than others.  The most common air flow methods used are variations on chin bar vents, top vents and exhaust vents in the back of the helmet. 

Unfortunately, the efficacy of a helmet's venting system can only be judged during a ride, not in the motorcycle shop.  It's impossible to comment on the design or number of vents and their effectiveness without trying the helmet, either behind a fairing or windscreen or on a "naked" bike. 

Some features to consider include simple opening and closing mechanisms that can be easily and smoothly operated with gloved hands and that positively shut off air flow, and direct paths for the air to flow on to the rider's face or head.

Visibility
There's a myth that's perpetrated by the anti-helmet law faction that claims that motorcycle helmets decrease peripheral vision.  The truth is that no motorcycle helmet would last very long in the marketplace if it blocked the owner's view of the road.  Every full-face helmet that any of us have ever tried had an opening wider than our peripheral vision.  This is easy enough to check when trying on a helmet.

Some helmets have a greater top-to-bottom vertical visor height than others.  Sportbike owners sometimes need wide visors due to the lower handlebars and the sportbike "crouch" necessary when riding, so keep this in mind when choosing a helmet.

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Helmet Attachments and Straps
The tried-and-true "D-ring" attachment system is widely used, very reliable and is used on every racing helmet that we are aware of.  Other "quick release" systems have been developed, but like trying to build a better mousetrap, none have improved on this basic attachment system, and most are more complicated, failure prone, and fussy to operate.  Our advice is to stick with the D-ring system.

A D-ring is infinitely adjustable and there are no springs to wear out or plastic and metal latches to break.  All of the quick release mechanisms we've tried make it very hard to adjust the tightness of the helmet straps.  Accessory quick release latches that are user installed should also be avoided, because they can add too much length to the helmet's strap, making it difficult to adjust correctly.  Our opinion is that quick release latches are a solution in search of a problem.

One thing to look for is a button or Velcro attachment for the extra piece of chin strap that's usually left dangling after the helmet is secured.  Sometimes, this extra piece can be tucked up under the attached chin strap, but it's usually more comfortable to have a method of securing the end of the strap.  Make sure you know how your system works and that it fits correctly before purchasing the helmet.

Liner
Motorcycle helmet liners can vary in design, comfort, materials and shape.  Since the liner is the primary interface between the rider's head and the helmet, make sure that it's compatible with your needs.  Most liners feel comfortable the first time the helmet is worn; if it doesn't, that's a sure sign of problems later on.  Make sure there are no "hot spots" or pressure points, especially against the temples, forehead and cheeks.  This is where it pays to try the helmet on in the local shop.

We recommend purchasing a helmet liner "skull cap".  These are usually specially designed for wearing under a motorcycle helmet, and they're very inexpensive.  They can usually be found made from either silk or cotton; both work well, and we'd avoid anything that isn't made from 100% natural fibers.  They can help keep the helmet liner clean and can improve comfort.  Silk liners are especially comfortable and can be found in Balaclava style for cool-weather riding.

Helmet Weight
The motorcycle helmet weight comparison chart is now on the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Weights page.  This page also includes a discussion about motorcycle helmet weight factors.

Color
Helmet colors are a personal choice, but remember that the ability to be seen in traffic is one of the most important safety issues to consider.  A rider's motorcycle helmet is usually the highest point on the motorcycle, so a bright color that is visible to traffic has the potential of going a long way towards increasing visibility. 

Some motorcycle helmets were once available in a "Safety Orange" color that was helped make the rider really stand out in traffic.  Unfortunately, the trend seems to be in the opposite direction; we've even seen motorcycle helmets available in a green or gray camouflage pattern.  Our opinion is that these and other dark or matte helmet colors should definitely be avoided.

Modular or "Flip-Up" Motorcycle Helmets
Volumes could be written on the subject of flip-up helmets.  They can be especially useful for motorcyclists who wear eyeglasses, because it is sometimes easier to fit the eyeglasses under the helmet prior to closing the visor (see our article on eyeglass modifications to fit a full-face helmet). 

Unfortunately, the pace of evolution for flip-up helmets by the motorcycle helmet manufacturers seems to be much slower and more deliberate than for other helmet styles.  Some flip-up helmets are ECE 22-05 certified, and many are DOT approved in the U.S.A., but the Snell Memorial Foundation has not, as of this writing, certified any flip-up helmets. 

There are also no studies that we are aware of that compare the differences in potential safety between open-face, flip-up and full-face helmets.  Unfortunately, the result is that the motorcyclist is on their own when trying to make a purchasing decision relative to the efficacy of this type of helmet.  This can lead to decisions made solely on the basis of marketing hype.

Which Modular Helmet Should I Buy?
This is a frequent question from webBikeWorld visitors.  In general, my response is this:  I no longer wear flip-up helmets other than for webBikeWorld evaluations. 

I've worn many flip-ups -- probably way more than most riders -- brands and models sold in the U.S., Europe and Japan and, in general, I find them to be less comfortable, louder and heavier than full-face helmets, and they have questionable - in my mind - protection.

They also offer no advantage for me for my type of riding.  I don't think they have any convenience for me, so I can't justify the issues that I have with them.

I used to wear them because I could fit my eyeglasses underneath, but ever since I discovered the trick of using a cut-down pair of eyeglasses to fit inside any full-face helmet several years ago, I have not found a full-face helmet that doesn't work with the modified glasses, so the only flip-up convenience that might have existed for me was gone.

The only possible advantage I can see in wearing a modular helmet is maybe being able to flip up the visor at a fuel stop.  But I fill up all the time with a full-face helmet with no problems.

Is a full-face helmet inconvenient?  Maybe...but so are full leathers, back protectors, gloves, race boots... and I wear those all the time.  It's part of motorcycling for me.

Other than for the webBikeWorld evaluations, I always wear what I consider to be a high-quality full-face helmet, made by a reputable company.  The most important safety factor after meeting the standards, in my opinion, is correct fit.  This is absolutely crucial for both safety and comfort. If the helmet doesn't fit correctly, it may not offer the protection it should or could, and abnormal temple or other damage could, in my opinion, easily occur.

And I'd venture to say that most or the majority of riders don't own helmets that fit.  I base this on our experience -- we have over 80 helmets here, and I can name only 2 that fit me correctly.  Those two were found by accident, in the course of evaluating many, many helmets over the years.

So if this is the case, I can't believe that a single rider who goes into a store and buys one helmet every few years will ever be able to find a really correct fit.  I'd even venture to say that most riders don't even know what a correct fit feels like.  This is based on the many, many emails we receive on this topic. - Rick K.

A Common Question:  Is it legal to wear non-DOT approved helmets in the U.S.?
Good question: it's our understanding that a motorcyclist could potentially be cited for not wearing a DOT approved helmet while riding in one of the states (U.S.) that requires a motorcycle helmet.  Also, check with your insurance company - there may be some way they could avoid paying for health care after an accident if you were not wearing a legal helmet.

What's not so black and white is which standards offer better protection for the rider.  Just about every helmet available in Europe is also available as a DOT-approved model in the U.S.  The helmets I am skeptical about are the ones that are originally designed to meet ECE approval and then are re-designed to also be Snell approved.  Personally, I'd much rather wear a DOT only or DOT/ECE helmet. In my opinion, there's nothing at all wrong with DOT standards and, in fact, the article indicates that DOT approved helmets may offer just as much protection.

Until a respected, neutral third party conducts ongoing scientific work, combined with statistics from real accident follow-ups, we'll probably never know which helmets offer better protection. I, for one, would be willing to pay a motorcycle tax on every motorcycle related product I buy that would go into a fund to support such work.

Conclusion
Know before you buy.  Learn all the facts.  Don't buy a motorcycle helmet based on perceived image or marketing hype.  It's important to try on a helmet and wear it for an extended period of time to compare fit and feel.  Wear earplugs.  And wear the helmet on every ride!

Note:  For informational use only.  All material and photographs are Copyright © webWorld International, LLC - 2000-2009.  All rights reserved.  See the webBikeWorld® Site Info page.  NOTE:  Product specifications, features and details may change or differ from our descriptions.  Always check before purchasing.  Read the Terms and Conditions!

• U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration regulations for importing motorcycles and motorcycle helmets.

• The U.S. DoT specifications for testing of motorcycle helmets to meet DOT approval (.pdf file).

• Skydex manufactures a new type of motorcycle helmet liner that is claimed to absorb greater impact forces than expanded polystyrene liners (Thanks to K.W.)

• A.C.S.A.S. Technology Corporation manufactures a liquid filled helmet liner that is being tested on motorcycle helmets.

• Head Protection Evaluation (HPE) is the certified Snell testing laboratory in the UK and they have some information and photographs on their website that illustrate how motorcycle helmets are tested to meet Snell standards.

►Reader Comments and Owner Feedback

From "S.K." (7/09):  "Hi. Let me comment on your website in general as follows:  Somehow I always seem to end up here when I look for a product, and for unknown reasons, I have TOTAL confidence in what is written there!

Lots of points for you guys!!!

I still like to figure out, why you defend so adamantly the old "Double-D-Ring" Helmet Closure System!  DEFINITELY not useable with Winter-, Rain or other gloves, worth wearing for protection!  Someone makes big bucks selling Qick Release Helmet Buckle as an accessory!  European Helmets have long gone away from the DD, and using it for bra-size-definition ONLY!

Would be delighted if someone could enlighten me about the advantages of aforementioned Helmet Closure System!

Keep up the good work!!"

Editor's Reply:  Thanks for the compliments and for your support!  There are a few reasons why we like the double D-ring system:

1) Light weight.
2) Extremely simple and elegant design.
3) Infinitely adjustable.
4) Takes a minimum amount of room under the chin.
5) No parts to break or wear out.
6) Proven for decades.
7) Used by every motorcycle racer in the world, where safety and protection is paramount.
8) Flat profile makes it more comfortable than a thick buckle system.

I have personally have never taken a helmet off or put it on when wearing gloves, and I guess I'm not sure why or when someone would do this, so I don't have a problem with that.

Anyway, those are the reasons!"

From "T.S." (7/09):  (Regarding our helmet reviews) "More info on shell sizes would be useful.   I have returned two helmets in the last year (one by HJC and the Scorpion 700 series open face) when I realized that the shell was the same size with just more padding in it to fit a medium or large (my fit, depending on the manufacturer).  The Scorpion in particular looked ridiculous on me.  I eventually found a left-over HJC AC3 that works reasonably in terms of size, weight, and comfort.  Thanks and keep the helmet reviews coming!"

Editor's Reply:  Thanks for the feedback - shell sizes are very difficult to determine; for some reason, the manufacturers don't make that information readily available, so we almost never know.  Usually if the helmet is offered in a size range from XS to XXL, there are two shell sizes, XS to M and L to XXL.

If the helmet is available in XXS to XXL or XXXL, it's a clue that their may be 3 shell sizes spanning that range.

Arai is one of the few manufacturers that usually makes at least 3 shell sizes for each helmet type.  Since each shell must be individually re-tested to meet the safety standards, the expense is probably one reason why the manufacturers don't use a wider range of shell sizes."

From "CC":  "According to the illustration (head shapes above), I have an egg shaped head.  Which helmet models best fits a person with an “egg” shaped head?

Editor's Response:  Our Motorcycle Helmet Weights page has a table with head shapes for the helmets we've reviewed.  The shapes above are for illustrative purposes -- helmets are most often designed with a "neutral" shape that fits an "average" shaped head.  There are no helmets that I know of designed to specifically fit an "egg" shaped head, but some helmets can be customized with different sized cheek pads to fit.

Whenever someone has a problem fitting a helmet, I always suggest going to a local Arai dealer and trying on their Quantum II ("Round"), Vector ("Intermediate Oval") and Profile ("Long Oval") models.  Arai is the only helmet manufacturer I know of who specifically designs helmets for different shaped heads.  Try one size smaller and larger than you think you need and make sure you wear each one long enough to know if it feels comfortable.  You can customize each of their helmets with different thickness cheek pads to fit.

The more different types of helmets you try, the more you'll start to understand which ones fit and what shapes work for your head...  Unfortunately, it's never easy to find the "perfect" helmet, and even harder if your head shape doesn't fit the helmet manufacturers' idea of "neutral".

From "W.H.":  "I stumbled across (a .pdf file) after reading your review of the Arai Vector.  If you flip to page 37, there's a little section on shell shapes and internal shapes.  It seems the internal shape of their helmets vary according to the different markets they are sold in (which may explain the different names in different markets).  Taken from Arai's PDF;

"One of the characteristics of Arai is the use of different shell shapes.  There is for instance the G-shell for a more rounded human head and the L-shell for longer, narrower faces.  Arai even produces different shaped shells and liners for different continents: rounded for Asian countries, longer and narrower for North American customers and wider at the front for the European market."

This is information that I think should be passed along in your reviews of Arai helmets.  Although it is very tempting to go online and buy a helmet from a different market for a paint scheme that isn't available here or simply because it may be less expensive, the helmet is not likely to fit the same as the one you may have tried on in a local store. 

As you know, once someone shells out several hundred dollars for a helmet, they are likely to wear it even though it does not fit correctly, or worse, compress the styrene liner to alleviate "hot spots" which reduces it's ability to absorb the energy from an impact."

From "D.L.":  "I read some of your reviews and found them helpful, but I've run into a problem with respect to local access to a variety of helmets sufficient to find one of excellent fit and function, though I was able to try several you recommended.

Unfortunately, the best fitting, and possibly the only functional fit of those I tried, was the Rossi Ti-Tech. . . which is a lot more helmet than I need.  I was wondering if you might be able to recommend a helmet that offers a similar fit, since it seems I may need to order one.  Unfortunately, they (have no) Arai helmets locally, so I could not try them.  The helmets I did try ran fairly true to size and I was wearing mostly medium.  My head profile appears to be somewhat oval, as opposed to round.  I would appreciate any further recommendations, thank you.

wBW Reply:  Thanks for visiting webBikeWorld and for your email.  I don't remember the internal shape and fit of the AGV Ti-Tech.  We weren't consistently recording that information back when that review was published (2-3 years ago?).

I would suggest though that if the Rossi version fits, you may want to try other AGV helmets (and as many helmets as you possibly can, to narrow down the choices), as many companies use a consistent fit and shell shape throughout their product line.

Unfortunately, most companies don't list the internal shapes of their helmets, for some reason.  And I wish they would invent removable liners with different style fits that could be customized for individual riders....maybe some day in the future?

If you're having problems with fit, I wouldn't recommend buying a helmet sight unseen without trying it on first; thus, you may want to spend the extra money and get one that you know fits, like the Rossi model you tried or an Arai, which is the only helmet company I know of that makes several different types of internal shapes for their helmets.  Most riders tell us that in the long run, they saved money by not paying for returns, restocking fees, helmets that don't fit, etc.

In the meantime, not sure if you've seen our Motorcycle Helmet Weights page which also lists the internal shapes for many helmets.