Motorcycle helmets are not just something that you should wear simply because it is mandatory by law, but because it is an essential life-saving equipment that does not cost even a fraction of the money you would spend on hospital bills. If you are in the market looking for a brand-new motorcycle helmet you are a few essential things that you need to keep in mind while shopping for the latest riding safety equipment.
Size does matter!
When it comes to motorcycle helmet size is extremely important and even more important than the outwardly look of the product. A loose-fitting helmet is quite likely to wobble and shake in the wind when you are riding on the highway and that does not give you any confidence, much less protection, in the event of a mishap. Always make sure to get the size of your head right by using a tailor’s tape to measure the circumference of your forehead in both instances and millimeters and then telling it with the manufacturer's size chart. Never make the mistake of wearing somebody else's helmet because first, it is unhygienic and second, there is a very good chance that the helmet will not fit properly on your head, and god forbid, if you happen to lose control over your motorcycle and fall on the ground the helmet will be the first thing that will fly off your head leaving your head and covered and unprotected!
If it’s not comfortable, it’s not worth your money
The sole purpose of a motorcycle helmet is to protect your head from injuries, but that does not mean it cannot be comfortable! A big reason why many people opt out of wearing a helmet is because they do not feel comfortable using it on a daily basis either because of the tug of the helmet on their hair, or because of poor airflow and ventilation which makes them stuffy, uncomfortable and suffocated. Make sure to check the helmet for all of these comfort factors and find out a product that you think suits your riding style the best and makes you feel comfortable as well. On the matter of the helmet tugging at the hair, it might be a good idea to wear a net cap (mesh skull-cap) on your head first before putting on the helmet, especially if you have long hair.
Style is equally important
You don't want to be caught wearing anything that looks like it belonged to your grandfather, unless of course you are going for the retro look! Thankfully, motorcycle manufacturers these days have come up with tons of style and design options in a million different attractive colors, one of which will definitely suit your lifestyle and fashion sense. While checking out the styles of a helmet make sure that you are also spending some time on understanding the different aspects of the different makes and designs. For example, if you are more into long distance touring then you might go with the market trend of choosing a full-face helmet which riders prefer for good weather sealing. But if you are going to be riding small distances within the city, then you may prefer an open face helmet because of its superior airflow and openness. Figure in all of these aspects when you are checking out the style of a motorcycle helmet to get the best return on your investment.
Certifications
The tiny ISI label (DOT in America and ECE in Europe) that you see behind the helmet has a huge significance you should not ignore. What the label means is that the manufacturer left no stone unturned to ensure that the helmet meets all safety guidelines and mandatory quality checks to give you the best safety, quality and value for money which you won't get in a helmet without that sticker! Always check for all relevant labels and stickers proving the authenticity and reliability of the product you are purchasing.