RIDE VA - Helmet Information and Sizing Tips

Types of Motorcycle Helmets + Sizing Tips (Click to view Sizing Tips)

There is a type and style of Motorcycle helmet to fit every rider's chosen look and choice of terrain. This basic information will discusses the trade-offs that you must make to get just the right motorcycle helmet for the way you ride and your personality.

Full Face Helmets

Full face helmets usually incorporate some type of venting system to keep you cool, but they are more "stuffy" and your breath tends to fog the shield in certain weather. They are often considered the best helmet protection available.

Modular Helmets

For those riders who like the look and protection of a full face motorcycle helmet, but also the convenience of an open face helmet, there's the Modular style. The chinbar is hinged and will lift up, allowing you to take a drink, put on your glasses, etc. They are more expensive, and look a bit quirky when open, but it may be the best of both worlds for your style.

Open Face Helmets

Also known as the three quarter helmet, this is the classic motorcycle helmet. They provide protection all the way over the ears and cheeks, but the chin is left exposed. Most have detachable visors and/or face shields.

Half Helmets

Also known as Shorty helmets. These are the favorite of cruisers looking for maximum style. The shell often comes over the ears. Some have a detachable neck curtain to keep out drafts on cool mornings. You can get every imaginable graphic on these from flames to skulls, to just basic black so you can plaster them with helmet stickers.

Dirt / Motocross Helmets

For the off-road crowd, there are helmets specially designed for you. They don't have a face shield, but instead provide a place for attaching goggle straps. They also include a longer visor.

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Helmet Sizing Tips

1. Estimate your size: Get a tape measure and your favorite manufacturer's sizing chart. Start with a helmet size you think will fit according to your measurements cross referenced to the chart. When buying online, this is about as far as you can go before taking the plunge. Now is the time to check the return policy of the shop. Most will charge a restocking fee, so if possible find a riding buddy who has a same brand helmet and try it on. The best option, in most cases, is to visit your local dealer. If your lucky and they have the model of helmet you want...try it on!

2. Not too tight: Once you have your new helmet in hand, put the helmet on by grasping the chin strap in each hand and pulling it on over your ears until you feel the top portion of the helmet touch. Check for the following red flags: A. The helmet immediately feels too tight. B. Your head does not touch the top of the helmet. C. You can't pull the helmet down over your ears. D. It's painful in any way. If any of these apply, you probably need another size.

3. Not too loose: Once you have found a helmet that feels comfortable and snug, you should make sure that it is not too loose. To do this, securely fasten the chin strap and grasp the helmet chin bar or sides firmly with one hand and try to move the helmet from side to side and up and down. If the helmet slides on your skin and hair, it is too large. If your scalp and skin want to move with the helmet, the fit is about right.

4. Just Right: One final check. Reach back to the back of the helmet and try to rotate the helmet as far down and forward as possible. Then as far backward as possible. If the helmet feels as if it might slide off in either direction, the helmet is either too big or the chin strap was not securely fastened.

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