Choosing the right motorcycle helmet goes beyond just picking a design you love; it’s about finding a helmet that fits snugly, offers optimal protection, and keeps you comfortable on the road. A poorly fitting helmet can be uncomfortable, distracting, and, most importantly, unsafe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to measure for a motorcycle helmet, ensuring you find the perfect size and style to meet your riding needs. With the right fit, you’ll have peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy your journey.
Why Measuring for a Motorcycle Helmet Matters
How to measure for a motorcycle helmet? The right helmet size and fit are essential for both comfort and safety. An ill-fitting helmet can shift around while you ride, leading to discomfort, reduced concentration, and increased risk in the event of an accident. A snug helmet helps cushion your head from impact, distributing the force evenly and reducing the chances of injury. Even if the helmet has top-notch safety certifications, it won’t protect effectively if it doesn’t fit correctly.
Key Reasons to Get the Right Fit
- Enhanced Safety: A proper fit keeps the helmet in place, providing optimal protection.
- Comfort on Long Rides: A well-fitted helmet reduces pressure points and chafing.
- Improved Focus: Without the distraction of a shifting helmet, you can concentrate fully on the road.
- Reduced Noise and Wind Resistance: Helmets that fit well minimize wind noise and provide better aerodynamic performance.
Understanding Helmet Shapes
Helmets are made in various shapes to fit different head types. When measuring for a helmet, it’s important to know your head shape to ensure a comfortable fit. Motorcycle helmets typically come in three main shapes:
1. Round Oval
This shape is designed for heads that are almost equally wide and long. It’s ideal for riders whose head shape doesn’t have much variation between front-to-back and side-to-side measurements.
2. Intermediate Oval
The most common head shape, the intermediate oval is slightly longer from front to back than side to side. Many popular helmet brands offer a variety of models suited to this shape.
3. Long Oval
Long oval helmets cater to riders with heads that are significantly longer from front to back than they are from side to side. If you have a longer head, this shape will be the most comfortable.
Identifying your head shape can save you time and frustration when selecting a helmet, as you’ll be able to focus on models that match your needs.
How to Measure Your Head for a Motorcycle Helmet
How to measure for a motorcycle helmet? Measuring your head for a helmet is a straightforward process that you can do at home with just a flexible tape measure. Here’s how:
Step 1: Get Your Measurement Tool
For accurate results, use a flexible tape measure. If you don’t have one, you can use a piece of string and a ruler.
Step 2: Measure the Circumference of Your Head
To measure, wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your head, which is usually about an inch above your eyebrows. Make sure the tape is level all the way around and isn’t twisted. Write down your measurement in inches or centimeters.
Step 3: Refer to the Manufacturer’s Sizing Chart
Different brands use different sizing standards, so it’s essential to refer to each brand’s chart. Compare your measurement with the sizing chart to find your helmet size. Remember that sizes can vary across brands, so check each chart even if you’re familiar with your usual size.
Helmet Fit Tests to Ensure Proper Sizing
Once you have your helmet size, it’s crucial to test the fit to ensure the helmet is right for you. These tests will help you confirm if the helmet is snug and comfortable:
1. The Fit Test
Put on the helmet and fasten the chin strap. The helmet should feel snug but not painfully tight. If it’s pressing against your head too much, it’s likely too small.
2. The Roll-Off Test
Try to roll the helmet off your head by pushing up from the back. If it moves significantly or slips off, it’s too loose. A proper fit will stay secure without too much movement.
3. The Cheek Pad Check
With the helmet on, check if the cheek pads press firmly but comfortably against your face. The pads should touch your cheeks without creating uncomfortable pressure points.
4. Eyeline and Field of Vision
Make sure you have a clear field of vision when looking straight ahead. Your eyes should be near the center of the visor opening, and there should be no obstruction of your peripheral vision.
Choosing the Right Style of Motorcycle Helmet
In addition to getting the correct size, you’ll also want to choose a helmet style that matches your riding style and personal preferences. Here are the most common types:
1. Full-Face Helmets
These helmets offer the highest level of protection by covering your entire head and face. Full-face helmets are a popular choice for sport and adventure riders who need full coverage for high-speed and off-road conditions.
2. Modular Helmets
Modular helmets feature a flip-up front section, combining the coverage of a full-face helmet with the convenience of an open-face option. They’re ideal for touring riders who want the versatility of both styles.
3. Open-Face Helmets
Open-face helmets provide protection for the top, sides, and back of your head but leave your face exposed. They’re popular with cruiser and scooter riders who prefer a more classic, less enclosed feel.
4. Half Helmets
Half helmets offer minimal coverage, covering only the top of the head. They’re lightweight and stylish, often worn by riders on low-speed cruisers, though they provide the least protection.
Helmet Safety Standards and Certifications
Ensuring that your helmet meets safety standards is essential for effective protection. The three most recognized safety certifications are:
- DOT (Department of Transportation): Required in the U.S., DOT certification indicates that the helmet meets minimum safety requirements.
- ECE (Economic Commission for Europe): A standard commonly used internationally, providing rigorous testing criteria.
- Snell: A voluntary standard with more rigorous testing than DOT and ECE. Helmets with Snell certification offer the highest level of tested protection.
When purchasing a helmet, always check the safety certification to confirm it meets the standards for your region and offers the protection you need.
Caring for Your Motorcycle Helmet
To extend the lifespan and maintain the effectiveness of your helmet, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Clean the Exterior and Visor
Regularly clean the helmet shell and visor using mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the visor, as scratches can reduce visibility and weaken the material.
2. Wash the Interior Liner
Many helmets come with removable, washable liners that can help keep your helmet fresh. Clean the liner as needed to prevent odors and bacteria buildup.
3. Store Your Helmet Properly
Store your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can weaken the materials. Always use a helmet bag or cover when storing to protect it from dust and scratches.
4. Replace Your Helmet When Needed
Most experts recommend replacing your helmet every 3-5 years or sooner if it’s been involved in an accident. Even if there’s no visible damage, helmets can deteriorate over time, reducing their protective qualities.
Ready to Find the Perfect Fit?
Finding the right motorcycle helmet can take time, but it’s worth it for the safety and comfort it provides. Use this guide to measure your head accurately, choose a shape that matches your head type, and try on different helmets to find the perfect fit. With the right helmet, you’ll be ready to enjoy every ride with confidence and peace of mind.