When it comes to buying a helmet, understanding the correct motorcycle helmet size is crucial for safety and comfort. An effective way to find the best helmet is to start by measuring your head accurately. First, use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of your head, typically above the eyebrows and ears. This step ensures you get a helmet that fits securely, reducing the risk of injury during a crash.
According to the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, a DOT-approved helmet goes through rigorous testing to ensure it’s a safe helmet for highway travel. However, other ratings like Snell and the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) provide additional options that reflect highly-rated safety standards.
Understanding Helmet Shape
When selecting a helmet, knowing your helmet shape is crucial for a properly fitting lid. A long oval fits heads that are longer front-to-back, while narrower side-to-side. An intermediate oval is slightly longer front-to-back, which is the most common shape for motorcycle helmets.
Meanwhile, a round oval suits those with almost identical measurements. Once you determine your shape, filter through helmet options to find a smaller, appropriate list that fits comfortably and securely.
Helmet Sizing Guide
To ensure maximum protection and avoid dangerous accidents or head trauma, your helmet must fit properly and be fastened under the chin. Start by using a soft tape to measure around your head, about one inch above the eyebrows to find the largest measurement. Compare this with a helmet sizing chart to determine where you fall.
If you’re between sizes, try the smaller size first for a snug fit. Different helmet models may have slight variations, so it’s vital to check the guidelines. This helps prevent helmet failure during a ride that could lead to a fatal accident if an unsafe helmet is used.
Example of a Motorcycle Helmet Size Chart
Helmet Fit and Comfort
When you try on a helmet, it should feel slightly tight with its interior touching most of your head but not causing pressure in any specific spots like your skull or face. Over time, the helmet should naturally loosen a bit without turning side to side. Check the eye-port placement above the eyebrows for clear peripheral vision. Insert a finger between your head and the helmet—if it fits too easily, try a smaller size.
Some helmet models offer cheek pads to improve fitment. Choose a helmet style based on personal choice for color and patterns, but a brighter design can help drivers spot you better. Keep in mind, that a face shield should not affect vision, and tinted visors are best for sunny days.
Example of a motorcycle helmet size chart
Choosing the Right Helmet Type
When selecting from different types of motorcycle helmets, knowing your riding style and needs is crucial. Some riders prefer full all-around protection with full-face helmets, while others opt for open-face helmets or half-shell helmets for a more open experience. Modular helmets and ADV dual sport helmets offer flexibility. To ensure safety and legality, it’s essential to stay within helmet laws. With many options, deciding on the best motorcycle helmet can feel challenging. Look for guides that discuss features in-depth, answer key questions, and help narrow down choices. Following popular suggestions from the riding community also aids in picking the best style. Remember, a helmet does expire, so replacing it regularly is necessary for safety.
Selecting a Best Helmet Based on Your Head Circumference
Different brands may have slightly different sizing, so it’s essential to consult the specific guide. Selecting a helmet based on your precise head circumference ensures a snug fit, which is crucial for both comfort and safety.
Helmet Trial: Trying On the Perfect Fit
After determining your head circumference and selecting a potential helmet size, it’s time to try on the helmet. Place the helmet on your head and make sure it sits evenly without tilting. The cheek pads should touch your cheeks firmly but not uncomfortably. Fasten the chin strap securely and check for minimal movement by shaking your head. The helmet should feel snug all around without pressure points. Trying on the perfect fit involves ensuring the helmet remains stable and comfortable, providing optimal protection while riding.
Checking Before Use
Helmet Safety Check: Adjusting the Chin Strap for Secure Fit
Before using your motorcycle helmet, ensure the chin strap is properly adjusted. Fasten the strap securely under your chin, allowing no more than one or two fingers to fit between the strap and your chin. If the strap is tight, the helmet should remain in place, but it should not be so tight that it causes discomfort. Properly adjusting the chin strap is essential for maintaining the helmet’s position and ensuring your safety in case of an impact.
Comfort Enhancement: Trying Additional Padding for Optimal Fit
If your helmet feels slightly loose or uncomfortable in certain areas, consider using additional padding to enhance comfort and fit. Many helmets come with removable and adjustable padding that you can customize to better conform to your head shape. Adding or repositioning padding can eliminate pressure points and provide a snugger fit, which enhances both comfort and safety while riding.
Pre-Use Inspection: Ensuring Helmet Integrity and Safety
Before each ride, perform a thorough inspection of your helmet to ensure its integrity and safety. Check for any cracks, dents, or other signs of damage on the outer shell and inner lining. Make sure the visor is clear and functions smoothly. Inspect the fastening mechanisms, such as the chin strap and buckles, to ensure they are in good working order. Conducting a pre-use inspection helps ensure that your helmet will provide the necessary protection in case of an accident.
FAQs
Is it common for a 3-year-old to need a bike helmet sized for a 5-year-old?
Kids grow differently. When I was a kid, I often wore clothes meant for kids older than me. My 10-year-old wears shirts the same size as my 13-year-old, and sometimes even bigger shorts. Even our 2-year-old cousin wears clothes meant for 3-4-year-olds. If your 3-year-old’s head seems much bigger than their body, it might be worth asking their doctor about it. Otherwise, it’s probably just how they’re growing.
Do helmets of different sizes (but the same model) use different visors?
Typically, no. Sometimes, yes. Budget helmets usually come in three or four sizes, using thicker or thinner styrofoam cores to adjust fit. This means the exterior shape remains the same, so the visor size stays consistent. However, this may compromise protection for larger heads and result in bulkier helmets for smaller heads. Premium helmets often come in two or three shell sizes, with different visor sizes available accordingly. Manufacturers like Shoei may use up to four shell sizes for one helmet type, allowing for better fit and protection.
How should a half helmet be fitted?
Just like a full helmet, a half helmet should fit snugly without side-to-side motion. Position the forward edge halfway across your forehead and fasten the chinstrap securely. Avoid wearing the helmet too far back, as this compromises forehead protection in an accident.
Which bike helmets do you recommend for people with larger heads?
Choosing the right helmet depends on your ride—whether it’s a bike or motorcycle. For motorcycles, fit is key, with helmets designed to match different head shapes. Trying them on is crucial as each brand uses unique molds. A snug, comfortable fit is essential for head protection in any crash. Visit a dealer to try on options and ensure a secure fit. Your safety, even in minor accidents, relies on it.
How can I measure my head size for a Helmet?
To measure your head size for a helmet, wrap a tape measure around your head and compare the measurement to a helmet size chart, Remember your size and consider trying on that size for fit at a helmet store.
How can I determine if my motorcycle helmet is too small?
If wearing the helmet for a period results in a headache or leaves red marks on your head, it’s likely too tight.
How do I measure for an HJC helmet?
Visit a store and try on helmets until you find the best fit. Helmet fit depends on both head shape and circumference. If you have a well-fitting helmet you want to replace, consider buying the same size from the same manufacturer online. However, it’s always best to try on helmets in person first.
How can I determine the correct size for an Arai helmet?
Before making a purchase, it’s essential to try on Arai helmets. Everyone’s head shape is different—personally, I have a round-shaped head and sometimes customize the fit with thicker or thinner head and cheek pads for the perfect fit. Cycle Gear stores are widely available and offer the best selection for trying before buying.
How can I measure for a motorcycle helmet?
It’s best to try on different helmets from various makers, as they cater to differently shaped heads. I find Shoei and Schuberth helmets suit my head well. Visit a store with a variety of options and try several until you find one that feels comfortable. Initially, it might feel slightly tight, but it should settle with wear and feel snug without turning on your head when you try to adjust it. Look for certification from your local authority, and for competition use in the UK, the ACU Gold sticker indicates stricter testing.
About the Author
I am Daniel Ken, an experienced motorcycle rider with 8 years on the road, and I specialize in writing about motorcycle helmets. I share expert insights on helmet safety, comfort, and style, helping fellow riders choose the best gear. My knowledge covers top safety standards, helmet types, premium materials, and advanced ventilation and noise reduction features.
I am extremely impressed with your writing skills and also with the layout on your weblog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself? Anyway keep up the excellent quality writing, it is rare to see a nice blog like this one nowadays..
no thats not paid, i customize it
I like the valuable info you provide in your articles. I’ll bookmark your blog and check again here frequently. I’m quite sure I’ll learn a lot of new stuff right here! Good luck for the next!
Nice post. I study one thing more challenging on different blogs everyday. It’ll always be stimulating to learn content material from different writers and observe just a little one thing from their store. I’d want to make use of some with the content on my blog whether or not you don’t mind. Natually I’ll provide you with a hyperlink in your web blog. Thanks for sharing.
Would you be thinking about exchanging hyperlinks?
Awesome blog! Do you have any suggestions for aspiring writers? I’m hoping to start my own website soon but I’m a little lost on everything. Would you advise starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many options out there that I’m totally overwhelmed .. Any recommendations? Thanks a lot!
If you’re still on the fence: grab your favorite earphones, head down to a Best Buy and ask to plug them into a Zune then an iPod and see which one sounds better to you, and which interface makes you smile more. Then you’ll know which is right for you.
Wow, fantastic weblog layout! How long have you ever been running a blog for? you made blogging glance easy. The total look of your web site is wonderful, let alone the content!
This is really interesting, You are an excessively skilled blogger. I’ve joined your rss feed and look forward to looking for extra of your wonderful post. Additionally, I’ve shared your website in my social networks!
Great write-up, I am regular visitor of one’s website, maintain up the nice operate, and It is going to be a regular visitor for a lengthy time.
Hello my friend! I wish to say that this article is amazing, nice written and come with approximately all important infos. I’d like to peer more posts like this .
of course like your web site but you have to check the spelling on several of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling issues and I find it very bothersome to tell the truth nevertheless I’ll surely come back again.
My wife and i felt really cheerful when Michael could complete his studies using the precious recommendations he discovered out of your site. It is now and again perplexing to just happen to be offering points which other people may have been making money from. Therefore we remember we have got you to be grateful to for this. All of the illustrations you have made, the simple blog navigation, the friendships you will make it possible to create – it’s got most impressive, and it’s assisting our son and our family recognize that this matter is satisfying, and that’s truly vital. Thank you for the whole lot!
Hey very nice web site!! Man .. Excellent .. Amazing .. I’ll bookmark your site and take the feeds also…I am happy to find numerous useful information here in the post, we need develop more techniques in this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .
Greetings! I’ve been reading your site for a while now and finally got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from Porter Tx! Just wanted to mention keep up the great job!
I am typically to running a blog and i actually respect your content. The article has actually peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your web site and maintain checking for brand spanking new information.
Thank you for every other magnificent article. The place else may anybody get that kind of info in such a perfect manner of writing? I’ve a presentation subsequent week, and I’m on the look for such info.
Wow! This could be one particular of the most helpful blogs We have ever arrive across on this subject. Actually Fantastic. I’m also a specialist in this topic therefore I can understand your hard work.
We’re a group of volunteers and opening a brand new scheme in our community. Your web site provided us with helpful info to paintings on. You’ve done a formidable process and our whole group can be thankful to you.
Hi, i think that i saw you visited my blog so i came to “return the favor”.I’m trying to find things to enhance my web site!I suppose its ok to use a few of your ideas!!
I relish, result in I discovered just what I was having a look for. You’ve ended my 4 day lengthy hunt! God Bless you man. Have a great day. Bye
I am curious to find out what blog system you happen to be utilizing? I’m having some small security issues with my latest site and I would like to find something more safeguarded. Do you have any recommendations?
Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! However, how could we communicate?
Hey there, You have done a great job. I’ll definitely digg it and personally suggest to my friends. I am sure they will be benefited from this site.
My partner and I stumbled over here from a different web address and thought I may as well check things out. I like what I see so i am just following you. Look forward to checking out your web page repeatedly.
I loved up to you will receive carried out proper here. The cartoon is attractive, your authored subject matter stylish. nevertheless, you command get got an shakiness over that you want be delivering the following. ill unquestionably come more formerly again since exactly the same nearly very frequently within case you shield this hike.
Great write-up, I am regular visitor of one’s web site, maintain up the nice operate, and It is going to be a regular visitor for a lengthy time.
Hi, Neat post. There is an issue together with your site in web explorer, might check this… IE still is the marketplace leader and a good section of other people will leave out your great writing due to this problem.
I will right away grab your rss as I can’t find your e-mail subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Kindly let me know in order that I could subscribe. Thanks.
Sweet blog! I found it while surfing around on Yahoo News. Do you have any suggestions on how to get listed in Yahoo News? I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there! Thank you
Great write-up, I’m regular visitor of one’s web site, maintain up the nice operate, and It’s going to be a regular visitor for a long time.
Very great post. I just stumbled upon your weblog and wanted to say that I have really loved surfing around your blog posts. In any case I’ll be subscribing on your feed and I’m hoping you write once more very soon!
very nice publish, i certainly love this web site, keep on it
I do trust all of the concepts you have presented on your post. They’re really convincing and can definitely work. Nonetheless, the posts are very quick for newbies. May you please lengthen them a little from subsequent time? Thanks for the post.
Howdy! Would you mind if I share your blog with my facebook group? There’s a lot of people that I think would really enjoy your content. Please let me know. Thanks
no issue, you can share, not copy pasting
Thanks for another informative website. Where else could I get that kind of information written in such an ideal way? I have a project that I am just now working on, and I’ve been on the look out for such info.
yes, you can approach me for such kind of information.
I’m usually to running a blog and i actually respect your content. The article has actually peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your web site and keep checking for brand new information.
How are things?Your post was truly amazing and full of valuable insights! I was hoping you could expand further on this topic as I am very interested in learning more. Your knowledge and perspective are greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and taking the time to do so!Safe travels.