Break in a motorcycle helmet is a lot like breaking in shoes—it takes some time for the padding to soften and adjust to the shape of your head. Initially, you might find the helmet slightly tight or uncomfortable. Padding can break in by up to 15%, so if you’re dealing with a snug fit, don’t worry; it’s part of the process. You should expect the helmet to start loosening up after about 15 to 20 hours of wear.
If you find the break-in period uncomfortable, consider using strategies like an oversized mannequin head to speed up the process. From my 50 years of motorcycling experience, I can tell you that some helmets, like the Icon Armadas, may take longer to break in than others. Be patient and use cleaning products if needed to help maintain the helmet’s condition as it molds to fit you better.
How Long Does Take to Break In Motorcycle Helmet?
When breaking a motorcycle helmet, the most common method is to simply wear it regularly. The interior foam will naturally start to deflate and mold to the shape of your head. This process typically happens after about 15 to 20 hours of wearing the helmet. However, you don’t need to be on a motorcycle for this to work; you can wear your helmet while doing everyday activities around the house, allowing it to adjust without the pressure of riding.
From my personal experience, I’ve found that wearing the helmet for an hour or so each day, even while doing simple tasks, helps speed up the process. The foam slowly reshapes to fit the curves of my face and head, making the helmet more comfortable over time. If you consistently wear it while working or walking around, the helmet will soon start to feel like a natural extension of your body.
How to Break Into a Motorcycle Helmet More Quickly
Breaking in a helmet can take time, but there are ways to speed up the process. One method is to use weights. By removing the foam lining from the helmet and placing it under some weighted items, the foam will adjust faster. Just ensure the weights are smooth to avoid creating irregularities in the foam, which could make the helmet uncomfortable later. Another trick is to use water. Soaking a towel in cold water and placing it on the padding inside the helmet helps the foam soften, making it quicker to mold to your head.
Once you’ve tried these methods, it’s essential to wear the helmet for about an hour daily. This allows the helmet to further adjust to your head and face shape. However, don’t overdo it with too much weight or water, as this can make the helmet too loose. In my experience, a balanced approach to using these tricks alongside regular wearing can significantly reduce break-in time.
How to Choose the Right Helmet Size
Measure Your Head
Choosing the right helmet is key for both your riding experience and safety. A helmet that’s too big won’t protect you properly, while one that’s too tight can cause a headache and other problems. Start by measuring your head size using a tape measure to find the largest circumference. Most experienced salespeople in good shops will help you through the sizing process. If you’re buying online, use the brand’s charts to get accurate measurements. It’s also helpful to check out reviews from other riders in forums and groups.
Try It On
When you try on helmets, remember that fit is more important than style. A properly fitted helmet will adjust to the shape of your head as you break it in, but it should still feel secure from the start. You can shake your head or even smile and chew gum to ensure it’s not squeezing your cheeks too much. If the helmet moves or causes discomfort after 30 minutes, it’s the wrong size. Always prioritize a safe and comfortable fit over trendy styles or marketing gimmicks.
Conclusion
When you get a new motorcycle helmet, the key is to wear it for around 30-60 minutes each day for at least two weeks. During this time, the helmet’s size will adjust, shrinking by about 20% on the inside to fit snugly against your face and head. If the helmet is sized properly when purchased, this break-in process won’t take too long—maybe about a month of regular riding for several hours each week.
However, if the helmet takes longer to adjust, it might have been too tight initially. Many riders can tell when a helmet is either too loose or too tight, but the real challenge comes when there’s a hidden pressure point that wasn’t noticed at the time of purchase. This is often felt on the forehead or the temporal areas. While some might be tempted to cut or modify the EPS liner, it’s better to compress it gently using your thumb over a few days. Always take the time to research and pick a helmet that fits snugly and comfortably from day one to avoid discomfort during long rides.
FAQs
How much force does it take to break a motorcycle helmet?
To break in a motorcycle helmet, an average of 140 pounds of force is required. This is tested using a 1.8-ton rig without destroying the helmet. Cracking happens when force decreases over time, often due to fatigue.
Do motorcycle helmets get looser?
Yes, motorcycle helmets can slightly stretch or break in over time, especially the padding inside.
