How to fit a motorcycle helmet correctly!

August 23, 2022

How to fit a motorcycle helmet correctly!

When buying a motorcycle helmet for the first time, the first thing you should consider is the safety features of the helmet. This includes making sure that the helmet fits snuggly on your head, but not all helmets are created equal when it comes to fitting on your noggin. Choosing the right helmet doesn’t always mean you have to pay a large sum of money, It’s about getting the right helmet type and helmet size that fits perfectly. Feeling overwhelmed? Our complete guide will walk you through the steps on how to correctly fit a motorcycle helmets:

Why it’s important?

A helmet is the most important piece of equipment needed before you start riding a motorcycle. Making sure you choose the right helmet for the type of riding you’re doing and being confident in the fit and feel of the helmet you choose is paramount before you start gripping and ripping that throttle. A well-fitting helmet keeps your head and neck well-protected. This means your helmet will stay on your head even if you happen to be in an accident and your head hits the ground. This also means you stay comfortable on the motorcycle during rides, having protection against the elements.

Different types of helmets

There are several types of helmets and each type has its own unique features and uses. No matter where you’re going or the riding style you intend to use the helmet for, wearing the right motorcycle helmet can mean the difference between life and death. 

Full face helmets

Full face helmets are top tier when it comes to the safety aspect of riding and the most popular helmet purchased by road riders. You can choose between a less aggressive commuter style helmet, that typically will be a little bit quieter, have an internal sun visor and is designed for that more of an upright riding position. Or if you have a sports bike and are in that aggressive down low riding/racing position you can choose an sports/race helmet that’s specifically built around managing wind resistance and getting the most speed out of your positioning. 

Modular helmets

Modular helmets or flip-up helmets, are a mix between a ¾ helmet and a full-face helmet. The materials and fitment of modular helmets are similar to a full-face helmet but its most distinctive feature is that the chin bar and visor can flip up to open the front of the helmet. 

Open-Face (¾) helmets

Open face helmets cover your head but leave your face and chin open meaning it does not protect you against weather conditions and road debris. Because of the absence of a chin bar, it weighs less than full face helmets.

Half helmets

Half helmets only cover the top of your head and your forehead providing minimal protection. Some may offer a bit of coverage on the back of your neck but leave the rest of your face exposed. 

Motocross/Offroad helmets

Motocross helmets are designed for completely different riding, terrain and conditions. Being in the dirt and typically around a number of other riders a motocross helmet will come with a peak for you to be able to deflect “roost” from other riders. They have a wide port for you to place your goggles in to protect your eyes also from dirt, debris and roost and are extremely light weight and ventilated to accommodate for the hot conditions. They also come with a low chin bar that is extended out compared to road helmets to open up ventilation and make breathing a little easier as Motocross is such a physically demanding sport.

Dual sport helmets

Dual-sport helmets combine the features of an off-road helmet and a full-face helmet. This type of helmet usually has a larger visor than a full face, but can also snap into an up position for the use of goggles. Dual sport helmets offer great aerodynamic and soundproofing features.

How long a helmet lasts

Like many other things, helmets are subject to wear and tear and have a limited lifespan. No matter how often or how careful you use your helmet, it will eventually reach a time when they are no longer usable or safe for continued use. Generally, it is advisable to replace your helmet five years after you purchase it or seven years after the production date found on the helmet, provided that the helmet has not experienced any accidents or significant impact.

Steps to ensure correct fitting

Make sure your helmet fits your head perfectly by following these steps in fitting a motorcycle helmet:

Choose the type of helmet you will use.

You can choose from a full-face, modular, open face, off-road, or dual sport helmet and the decision should be based on what type of activity you’ll most likely use the motorcycle for.

Determine your head size and shape.

Pass a tape measure around the crown of your head, about an inch above your eyebrows. This should be the biggest part of your head. Compare your result against a helmet’s size chart to determine which size you need to order.

Try the helmet on.

Helmets are designed to be worn on your head. The helmet should be slightly tight and the interior should come in contact with most of your head, but not too tight that it causes discomfort. Check is if the helmet is secure enough and won’t come off easily. If it can be rolled off instantly even with the chin strap on, it will most likely come off in a crash.

With all of these information, you now have everything you need to find the perfect helmet for you. If you need more tips on everything about motorcycling, check out our Motorcycle Blog. Also check our full range of road helmets today.