Daniel Thompson
September 26, 2023
Ensuring your safety while riding a motorcycle starts with choosing the right helmet. But how do you make sure it fits correctly?
In this guide, we will not only walk you through the process of measuring your head for the perfect helmet size but also provide valuable tips for buying a helmet that suits your needs and preferences.
How to Buy a Motorcycle Helmet?
Let’s start with the essential factors to consider when purchasing a motorcycle helmet.
- Determine Your Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a helmet. Prices can vary widely, so having a budget in mind will narrow down your options.
- Choose the Right Type: There are different types of motorcycle helmets, such as full-face, open-face, and modular. Select the one that suits your riding style and preferences.
- Check Safety Certifications: Look for helmets that meet safety standards like DOT, ECE, or Snell. These certifications ensure the helmet’s quality and protection.
- Find the Right Fit: A properly fitting helmet is crucial for safety. Measure your head size and try on different helmets to find one that snugly fits without being too tight.
Consider Helmet Shape: Helmets come in various shapes. Determine if your head shape is round, intermediate oval, or long oval to find a comfortable fit.- Test for Comfort: Wear the helmet for several minutes to assess its comfort. Ensure it doesn’t cause pressure points or discomfort.
- Ventilation and Noise: Check for adequate ventilation to keep you cool during rides. Also, consider noise levels; quieter helmets can enhance your riding experience.
- Shield and Visor Options: Different helmets have various shield and visor options. Choose one that provides clear visibility and suits your needs, like a tinted visor for sunny days.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Check if the helmet’s interior lining is removable and washable for easy maintenance. Keeping your helmet clean is essential for hygiene and comfort.
- Warranty and Replacement Policy: Review the manufacturer’s warranty and replacement policy to ensure you’re covered in case of defects or accidents.
- Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try on helmets in-store to ensure the best fit. If buying online, make sure the retailer has a return policy in case it doesn’t fit properly.
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Personal Style: While safety should be the top priority, you can also choose a helmet that matches your personal style and preferences.
How to Measure Your Head for the Right Helmet Size?
Getting the correct helmet size is important for both the comfort and safety aspect. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on how to measure your head to find the perfect fit.
What You’ll Need:
- A soft measuring tape (cloth, flexible and not too stretchy)
- A mirror (optional but helpful)
- A friend’s assistance (optional)
Steps to Measure Your Head:
1. Prepare Your Measuring Tape: Ensure the measuring tape is flexible and not too stretchy, as this can affect accuracy.
2. Find the Widest Part: Stand in front of a mirror if possible, and hold one end of the tape measure just above your eyebrows.
- Wrap the tape measure around your head, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- Bring the tape measure to the widest part of your head. This is usually about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above your ears and around the back of your head.
3. Take the Measurement:
- Hold the tape snugly, but not too tight, around your head. Ensure it’s not loose or twisted.
- Take note of the measurement in centimetres (cm) or inches (in). Make sure to measure in a straight line, not over the top of your head.
4. Repeat for Accuracy:
- For the most accurate measurement, repeat this process two to three times. Take the average of these measurements.
5. Use the Sizing Chart:
- Refer to the sizing chart provided by the helmet manufacturer or retailer. Different brands may have slightly different sizing, so it’s essential to follow their guidelines.
6. Choose the Right Size:
- Select the helmet size that corresponds to your head measurement. If your measurement falls between two sizes, opt for the larger size for comfort.
7. Try It On:
- If possible, try on the helmet before buying to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Keep in mind that different helmet models may fit slightly differently even if they have the same size label.
Pro Tips:
- Avoid using a tape measure that’s too stretchy, as it can lead to inaccurate measurements.
- If you don’t have a soft measuring tape, you can use a piece of string or a strip of paper to measure your head. Then, measure the string or paper with a ruler.
- If you’re unsure about your measurements, consider seeking assistance from a friend or visiting a local motorcycle gear shop where experts can help you find the right size.
Remember that a properly fitting helmet is crucial for your safety on the road. Investing time in measuring your head correctly will lead to a safer and more comfortable riding experience.
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