When you’re riding your motorcycle, staying safe is very important. But did you know that not all helmets are as safe as they seem? It’s true. Some brands might look cool, but they don’t always make helmets that can really protect you And that’s a serious problem because when you’re out on the road, you need a helmet you can trust to keep you safe.
You buy a helmet and find out that it might not meet all the safety standards. That’s exactly happening with some helmets from certain brands. There are reports out there saying that these helmets might not be as safe as they should be. It’s kind of scary because when you’re cruising on your bike, you want to know that your helmet has your back if something goes wrong.
“Rule the world but first, wear the crown.”
But don’t worry, there’s a solution. You can make smarter choices when it comes to picking out your helmet. By learning more about helmet safety and the brands, you can make sure you’re getting a helmet you can really rely on. So, let’s take a closer look at which helmet brands you might want to avoid. That way, you can feel confident that you’re making the safest choice for your next ride.
List of Top 8 Worst Motorcycle Helmet Brands To Avoid in 2024
Here is a list of the 8 worst motorcycle brands to avoid.
1. HLN
It’s important to note that “HLN” motorcycle helmet brand is generally considered to be of poor quality or unsafe. Numerous reports and reviews have highlighted issues such as inadequate protection, substandard materials, and insufficient safety standards compliance.
Reasons to avoid
- Limited availability or reputation.
- Safety concerns.
- Comfort issues.
- Durability doubts.
- Better alternatives are available.
2. Box
Note: The “Box” motorcycle helmet brand is generally considered to be avoided for several reasons. Their helmets often lack adequate safety certifications, raising concerns about their protective capabilities in the event of a crash. Additionally, many riders report poor build quality, with issues such as easily scratched visors, flimsy construction, and uncomfortable fit.
Reasons to Avoid
- Negative experiences with Box helmets.
- Lack of features.
- Poor ventilation.
- Subpar customer service.
- Heavy or bulky feel.
3. NZI
The “NZI” motorcycle helmet brand is often advised against for several reasons. There have been numerous reports of poor build quality and durability issues with their helmets. Many users have complained about flimsy construction, easily scratched visors, and inadequate padding, leading to discomfort during rides. Some models from NZI have failed to meet safety standards, raising concerns about their effectiveness in protecting riders during accidents.
Reasons to avoid
- Doubts about safety standards.
- Lack of features.
- Reliability doubts in accidents.
- Subpar customer service.
- Heavy or bulky feel.
4. AVG
Riders often choose to avoid helmets from the “AVG” brand due to safety, build quality, and durability concerns. Reports of subpar safety standards, poor construction, and issues with durability have led to a lack of trust among riders.
Reasons to Avoid
- Personal preferences or experiences.
- Perception of AGV helmets.
5. Shoei Qwest
While opinions on motorcycle helmet brands can vary, some riders may choose to avoid the Shoei Qwest helmet for a few reasons. Some users have reported issues with the helmet’s noise level, finding it louder than other models. Some riders have experienced discomfort due to the helmet’s fit, particularly in the cheek pad area. Furthermore, the Qwest may be considered relatively expensive compared to other helmets.
However, it’s important to note that helmet preferences are highly subjective, and what works for one rider may not work for another. It’s always recommended to try on different helmets and read reviews to find the best fit and features for your individual needs and preferences.
Reasons to avoid
- Concerns about specific features or design
- Availability of better alternatives from other brands.
- Not suitable for those low-budget
6. HJC
It’s essential for riders to research and try on helmets from various brands to find the one that best suits their needs and preferences in terms of safety, comfort, and overall quality.
Reasons to avoid
- Personal experiences and preferences.
- Inconsistent fit,
- lower build quality compared to higher-end brands
- limited features and technology.
7. Torc
It’s important to note that whether a brand is “bad” or should be avoided can be subjective and depends on various factors such as personal preferences, safety standards, and product reviews. Additionally, checking for certifications such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) can provide insight into the safety standards met by the helmets. Ultimately, making an informed decision based on research and individual needs is key when choosing a motorcycle helmet brand.
Reasons to avoid
- Limited availability of features.
- Perception of inferior durability.
- Reputation for uncomfortable fit.
- Availability of better-reviewed helmet
8. Bell
Some individuals may have had negative experiences with certain brands, while others may have had positive ones. Therefore, it’s essential to consider various factors such as safety ratings, comfort, features, and personal preferences when choosing a helmet.
Reasons to avoid
- Personal preference or negative experiences.
- Reports of inadequate ventilation or airflow.
- Availability of better alternatives.
- Limited selection of features.
- Concerns about warranty support
What Makes a Helmet Bad?
Choosing a good helmet is really important for staying safe while riding. Make sure to look for one with a strong shell, good foam liner, comfy fit, clear visor, secure chin strap, and safety certifications.
First Defense: Shell
The hard outer shell of a helmet is like its shield. If it’s weak or cheaply made, it won’t protect your head well in a crash. Look for helmets made from strong materials like fiberglass or polycarbonate.
Second Defense: Foam Liner
Underneath the shell, there’s a foam that absorbs impact during a crash. If this foam isn’t good quality, it won’t protect you properly. Ensure the foam meets safety standards and feels comfortable when wearing the helmet.
Comfort and Fit
A good helmet should feel comfy and fit your head well. The padding inside the helmet should be soft and removable for easy cleaning. If the helmet doesn’t feel right on your head, it might not protect you as well.
Visibility and Airflow
Being able to see clearly and stay cool while riding is crucial. Look for helmets with a clear visor that doesn’t distort your vision. Also, make sure there are vents for airflow to keep you comfortable.
Chin Strap and Price
The chin strap keeps the helmet securely on your head. If it’s flimsy, the helmet might come off in a crash. Also, be wary of super cheap helmets as they might not meet safety standards.
Safety Certification
Always look for helmets with safety certifications from trusted organizations. These certifications ensure the helmet has passed important safety tests.
Main Consequences Of Wearing a Low-Quality Helmet
1. Less Protection and More Risk of Getting Hurt
When you wear a helmet that’s not good quality, it doesn’t keep you as safe as it should. These helmets might not have enough padding or strong material to protect your head well. So, if there’s an accident, you’re more likely to get seriously hurt. You could hurt your brain, break your skull, or even die.
2. Legal Problems
In many places, there are rules about the kind of helmet you have to wear when riding a bike or motorcycle. If you wear a bad helmet that doesn’t meet these rules, you can get in trouble with the law. You might have to pay fines or even lose your right to drive. And if you have an accident, your insurance might not pay if your helmet isn’t good enough. So, wearing a cheap helmet doesn’t just put you at risk, it can also cause legal issues.
What are the characteristics of Safe and Reliable Helmets
The following are the characteristics of safe and reliable motorcycle helmets:
1. Ratings for Motorcycle Helmet Safety
There are standards to check how safe a helmet is for motorcycle riders. These ratings tell us if a helmet can protect our heads well during accidents.
2. Good Materials and Strong Build
Safe helmets are made with strong stuff and built carefully. They’re not flimsy and can handle impacts without breaking easily.
3. Right Size and Fit
Helmets need to fit our heads just right to keep us safe. They shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. If they fit well, they can protect us better.
Tips and Advice on How to Buy a Good Motorcycle Helmet Online
Buying a motorcycle helmet online can be convenient, but it’s essential to make sure you get the right one to stay safe on the road. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Know Your Size
Before you start browsing, measure your head size accurately. Most online sellers provide size charts to help you choose the right fit.
Check Safety Ratings
Look for helmets that meet safety standards set by organizations like DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe). These ratings ensure that the helmet provides adequate protection in case of an accident.
Read Reviews
Take the time to read reviews from other buyers to get an idea of the helmet’s quality, comfort, and durability. Pay attention to any recurring complaints.
Understand Return Policies
Since you can’t try on the helmet before purchasing online, familiarize yourself with the seller’s return policy. Make sure you can return or exchange the helmet if it doesn’t fit or meet your expectations.
Compare Prices
While it’s essential to prioritize safety and quality, comparing prices from different sellers can help you find the best deal without compromising on safety.
Identifying Warning Signs in Helmet Brands
- Substandard Shell Construction
- Inadequate EPS Foam
- Poor Padding and Comfort
- Compromised Visibility with Inferior Visors
- Inefficient Ventilation and Airflow
- Unreliable Chin Straps
- Misleading Pricing
- Absence of Safety Certifications
Conclusion
When it comes to motorcycle helmets, safety and reliability should be your top priorities. While many brands offer quality helmets that meet safety standards, there are some motorcycle helmet brands that consistently receive poor reviews and fail to provide adequate protection. Helmets from these brands often suffer from issues such as subpar materials, poor construction, and inadequate testing, which can put riders at serious risk.
By being aware of the worst motorcycle helmet brands to avoid, you can make informed decisions and choose a helmet that ensures your safety on the road. Remember, investing in a reputable and certified motorcycle helmet is crucial for your protection and peace of mind.
FAQs
Which brand of helmet is safest?
The safest helmet depends on the specific model and its safety certifications, like DOT or ECE. Check those certifications, no matter the brand, to find the safest option.
What is the least safe motorcycle helmet?
The least safe motorcycle helmets are typically those that don’t meet safety standards like DOT or ECE. Always look for helmets with these certifications to ensure your safety.
What’s the difference between cheap and expensive motorcycle helmets?
The main difference between cheap and expensive motorcycle helmets is the quality of materials, construction, and additional features.
What are the best motorcycle helmet brands?
The best motorcycle helmet brands include Shoei, Arai, Bell, and AGV, known for their high-quality helmets and safety features.
Does dropping a motorcycle helmet ruin it?
Dropping a motorcycle helmet can potentially ruin it, especially if it sustains significant impact or damage to its structural integrity.
