Shop for the best riding helmets with complete protection, visors, superior ventilation, Bluetooth and many more features.
When it comes to riding gear and accessories, safety and comfort are the most important things to keep in mind. A well-fitted helmet is the first and most important piece of protective gear you need, for any kind of a ride. Be it city commute, long tour or a sporting event, a helmet is imperative to have as part of your riding gear. Wearing the right riding helmet not only ensures your safety but also enhances your riding experience. However, finding the perfect helmet fit can be confusing amongst the plethora of brands. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose a helmet that fits well, keeps you safe and offers maximum comfort. Let's dive into the essentials of choosing the best riding helmets, whether you're opting for a full-face helmet, open-face helmet, modular helmet or another style.
Why Does The Fit Matter
A helmet that fits improperly can be both dangerous and uncomfortable. Too loose, and it may not protect your head in an accident; too tight, and it could cause headaches and limit your focus on the road. Your motorcycle helmet is more than just a stylish piece in your riding gear and accessories—it is your primary line of defence against head injuries. That’s why finding the right fit is crucial.
How To Measure Your Head For The Perfect Fit
Before you start shopping for a motorcycle helmet, you need to know your head size and shape. Follow these steps to measure correctly:
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Measure Your Head Circumference
Use a flexible measuring tape to wrap around the widest part of your head—just above your eyebrows and ears. -
Determine Your Head Shape
People generally have one of three head shapes: round, oval, or long oval. Knowing your head shape can help you find a helmet that fits well without creating uncomfortable pressure points. Most helmet brands offer helmets tailored to different shapes. - Look out for shape and fit recommendations when you are choosing a riding helmet.
Head to www.reisemoto.com, for the best riding helmet recommendation. Choose from a number of brands that are suitable for touring, weekend rides, city commute and other riding needs.
Types of Motorcycle Helmets
There are several types of helmets, but the full-face helmet stands out for its comprehensive coverage. This helmet provides the highest level of protection by covering your entire head and face, including the chin area, which is particularly vulnerable in accidents. Other options include open-face, modular, and half helmets, but for the best in safety and comfort, full-face helmets are highly recommended. Below are the different kinds of riding helmets.
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Full-Face Helmets
A full-face helmet offers complete coverage, enclosing the rider's entire head and face. It provides the maximum protection for both the head and neck, making it the safest option for reducing the risk of serious injuries.
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Open-Face Helmets (Half-Face Helmets)
As the name implies, open-face helmets cover the head, forehead, and ears, leaving the face exposed. They are lighter in weight, making them a comfortable option for shorter trips.
Open-face helmets are popular for city commuting, especially in slow-moving traffic or hot weather, and are favoured by low-speed bike riders.
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Half-Shell Helmets
Half-shell helmets, covering only the top of the head, leave the ears, neck, chin, and jaw exposed, making riders more vulnerable to injury. While these helmets offer excellent visibility, they do not provide adequate protection and are considered less safe.
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Modular Helmets
Modular helmets, also called flip-up helmets, combine the benefits of both full-face and open-face designs. With a hinge that allows the chin guard and visor to be flipped up, riders can switch between a full-face setup and the open-face feeling at their convenience.
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Dual-Sport Helmets
Dual-sport helmets are a cross between off-road helmets and street helmets, adapted for moderate-speed road use. They are perfect for light off-road excursions and can also be used for longer rides thanks to improved ventilation and a built-in face shield or visor that flips up when needed.
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Off-Road Helmets
Off-road helmets, also known as motocross helmets, are specifically designed for rugged, off-road riding. They are lightweight, providing maximum comfort and breathability during the physical demands of off-road adventures. These helmets feature a sun peak and an extended chin guard in a single-piece construction.
How to Try On a Helmet for Fit
When you try on a helmet, it should feel snug but not painfully tight. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure a proper fit:
- Snug Fit: The riding helmet should fit snugly around your entire head without feeling overly tight. It shouldn’t slide around when you shake your head.
- Cheek Pads: The cheek pads should press against your cheeks comfortably, without causing pain or discomfort. If they’re too loose, they won’t provide adequate protection.
- Chin Strap: Fasten the chin strap and make sure you can fit no more than two fingers between your chin and the strap. The riding helmet should not move excessively when the strap is secured.
- Pressure Points: Wear the motorcycle helmet for a few minutes to check for any pressure points. If you feel discomfort in certain areas, the helmet might not be the right shape for your head.
Safety Certifications to Look For
In addition to a good fit, you should always choose helmets that meet recognized safety standards. Having a certified motorcycle helmet ensures you’re using a product that has been thoroughly tested for impact resistance and other safety measures. Here are a few certifications you should look for when buying riding helmets:
- ISI (Indian Standards Institute): In India, this is the government-approved organization that certifies motorcycle helmets. ISI-certified helmets are considered safe and legal to use in the country. This is based on safety tests that focus on penetration resistance and impact absorption.
- Other certifications for international brands include DOT (Department of Transportation) in the US, ECE (Economic Commission for Europe), which is widely used in Europe and Snell, an independent safety organization that offers some of the most stringent helmet testing in the world.
Comfort Enhancements in Modern Helmets
Thanks to innovations in helmet design, modern helmets come with features aimed at improving both safety and comfort. Look for these key features to enhance your riding experience:
- Ventilation: Proper airflow is essential for preventing heat build-up during long rides. Look for helmets with adjustable vents that allow air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable.
- Moisture-Wicking Liners: Helmets with removable, moisture-wicking liners help keep sweat at bay. This feature is especially useful for riders in hot or humid climates.
- Lightweight Materials: Lightweight helmets made of materials like carbon fiber or advanced thermoplastics reduce neck strain on longer rides.
- Noise Reduction: Some helmets are designed with soundproofing features to minimize wind noise, making for a more peaceful ride.
Give It A Break-In Period
New helmets often feel tight at first, but they should "break in" after a few hours of wear. During this period, the padding inside the helmet takes the shape of your head. However, if the helmet remains uncomfortable after several wears, it’s probably not the right fit, and you should consider trying a different size or model.
- Team Reise Moto
