When wearing goggles with a motorcycle helmet, it’s essential to ensure a comfortable fit and safety. For full-face helmets, which cover the entire face, you can use goggles with adjustable straps and clear or tinted lenses for added protection in various weather conditions. If you have an open-face helmet, like the SOA Inspired DOT Beanie Flat Black, choose goggles that fit snugly without pressing too hard against your face, providing good eye protection.
For dirt bike helmets, designed for off-road adventures, goggles with tinted lenses are ideal for reducing glare and improving visibility on rough terrains. Always check the compatibility of the goggles with your helmet to avoid any gaps and ensure a snug but not too tight fit. This setup keeps your eyes shielded from insects and debris while enhancing comfort and performance.
Tips for Wearing Goggles with a Motorcycle Helmet
Wearing goggles with a motorcycle helmet can be tricky, but with the right design and a few adjustments, it becomes quite manageable. Certain types of motorcycle helmets are more suited for goggles, especially when looking for ventilation and ease of use. For example, motocross helmets offer a spacious design with extra room around the face, making it easier to fit a pair of goggles comfortably. Many riders find it helpful to wear a bandana underneath to keep sweat away, and others prefer to wear earbuds for a better riding experience.
Since these helmets are typically used in off-road conditions, their build is intended to keep out dirt and mud while maximizing visibility for riders on dirt roads. Additionally, many manufacturers design goggles specifically for these helmets, so they go hand in hand when you need protection from the elements.
When choosing goggles to wear with a motorcycle helmet, focus on size and fit to find the best helmet for your needs. In my experience, finding goggles that are snug enough to stay in place but large enough to fit over a helmet makes all the difference in ensuring comfort and safety on the road. For dirt bike helmets, this usually isn’t a problem, as their open shape provides enough space for most goggles, especially around the face gap where the straps rest.
However, with full-face helmets that include a face shield, you may need to lift or remove the shield to make room for the goggles’ strap. It’s also helpful to squeeze your cheeks slightly while fitting the helmet to get the most secure fit, especially if your head size is larger. Be aware that some locking mechanisms on full-face helmets can restrict where the goggles’ strap is placed, so removing the face shield entirely can be an effective solution to avoid obstruction.
Do motorcycle riders wear goggles?
Yes, many motorcycle riders opt for goggles, especially those using open-face helmets or adventure helmets. Goggles are crucial for protection against dust, debris, and weather elements. They also provide UV protection and are compatible with prescription glasses. At places like Microdot Helmet Co, riders can find DOT-approved helmets that pair well with various goggles, blending safety with style for different needs, whether it’s vintage style or racing requirements.
Why Do Motorcyclists Wear Goggles?
Motorcyclists wear goggles to ensure safety, comfort, and style. Goggles protect the eyes from dust, insects, debris, and weather elements like wind and rain, which helps maintain clear vision. They also offer UV protection, shielding against harmful ultraviolet rays on long rides. For those with prescription glasses, goggles can fit over them to provide both vision correction and protection. Additionally, adventure helmets are often used with goggles for off-road riding, ensuring maximum protection and comfort during adventurous rides.
Are motorcycle goggles better than visors?
- Motorcycle Goggles:
- Versatility: Can be worn with various helmet types, including open-face and dirt bike helmets.
- Style Options: These are available in different styles and lens colors, such as clear, tinted, blue, and lightly colored.
- Enhanced Fit: Adjustable straps allow for a customized fit; some can be worn over prescription glasses.
- Protection: Shields against wind, rain, and UV rays.
- Visor (Face Shield):
- Full Coverage: Protects the entire face, not just the eyes.
- Convenience: Integrated with full-face helmets for a seamless look and ease of use.
- Clear Vision: Often includes anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings to ensure clear vision.
- Wind Protection: Offers superior protection from wind compared to goggles.
- Considerations:
- The choice depends on helmet type, style preference, riding conditions, and whether prescription glasses are worn.
Can you wear a full-face helmet with goggles?
Yes, you can wear a full-face helmet with goggles, although it’s not very common because full-face helmets usually come with a built-in visor. If you choose to wear goggles, they can provide extra protection and a unique style. Make sure the goggles are compatible with your helmet, fitting well without any gaps or discomfort. This setup can be especially useful in extreme weather or off-road conditions, offering added protection against dust, wind, and rain.
For maintenance, regularly clean both the goggles and helmet, following the manufacturer’s instructions. In some cases, like racing, specific goggles and helmets might be required to meet safety standards. If you prefer, sunglasses can be an alternative to goggles, especially with open-face helmets, provided they offer UV protection and fit comfortably.
Conclusion
Wearing goggles with a motorcycle helmet can enhance both safety and comfort. To make sure your goggles fit properly, select them based on your helmet type, whether it’s full-face or open-face. Ensure that the goggles are compatible with your helmet and check that they offer the protection you need against wind, dust, and rain. Regular care and maintenance are crucial; keep both your goggles and helmet in good condition to ensure they provide the best protection. This way, you’ll enjoy both style and functionality on every ride.
FAQs
Should you wear goggles under or over a helmet?
To decide whether to wear goggles under or over a helmet, it depends on your routine. If you frequently take off your goggles, wearing them over the helmet is practical. For those who often remove their helmet, placing goggles under the helmet is generally more beneficial.
Can you wear goggles with a motorcycle helmet?
Yes, you can wear goggles with a motorcycle helmet. They are commonly used with motocross and half helmets but can be compatible with other types as well.
How to get glasses on with a motorcycle helmet?
Yes, you can wear glasses with a motorcycle helmet. Simply slide your glasses on first, then put the helmet on over them. Make sure the helmet fits comfortably and doesn’t press against the glasses. Adjust the helmet straps if needed to ensure a snug fit without disturbing your glasses.
How to put on goggles with a helmet?
Yes, you can wear goggles with a helmet. Just hold the goggles in place with one hand while guiding the strap over the back of the helmet with the other hand. Secure the strap by threading it through the space between the helmet and your head, ensuring it sits comfortably and snugly.
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.
