5 Tips for buying a helmet (guest post)

This guest post fits nicely with the general theme of this blog. Thank you to Emily Murray for contributing it:

The 5 Things to Look For When Purchasing a Motorcycle Helmet

Modular (Flip Face)

Helmets are the safety belts of motorcyclists. While those of us who argue that the wind in our hair while riding is one of the best things about being on the road, helmets reduce the risk of head injuries and can be the difference between life and death, when in an accident. Current laws in most states require riders, especially those younger than 18, to wear a helmet. You can be safe and still look stylish. When purchasing a helmet, knowing what to look for can help you find one that will effectively protect you at all times.

Full Face

1. The right fit
The helmet you purchase must fit your head snugly. A helmet that moves around on your head can be noisy while riding and it can allow wind to enter. Ultimately, an over-sized helmet may come off during an accident. Measure the circumference of your head right above your eyebrows. Ask the sales person or helmet manufacturer whether this measurement is equivalent to a small, medium, large or extra-large helmet size.

2. Reflectivity

Half Helmet

Helmets are available with many designs and come in a wide variety of colors. Many people choose a bright-colored helmet to make themselves more visible to others while on the road. Motorcyclists must abide by state reflectivity requirements when it comes to the helmets they wear. Some states require helmets to have reflective strips on them so riders are clearly visible during nighttime and harsh weather conditions. Contact your local DMV for more information regarding your state’s requirements.

3. Comfort
The comfort of a helmet is essential to make your riding experience a more pleasant one. If a helmet irritates or hurts you after wearing it for 25 minutes, it can make you lose focus of the road and trigger accidents. A vent and padded straps can help to improve the comfort of the helmet.

4. Penetration and Impact

The helmet you choose must be hard and sturdy enough to withstand blows from flying objects. A helmet that’s easily penetrated can ultimately result in a fatal injury or accident. When your helmet is hit by a flying object, it must have the capacity to absorb the shock.

Dual Sport

5. Vision
Before purchasing a helmet, make sure you can easily see sideways when wearing it. Even though a person’s peripheral vision is commonly 90 degrees to both sides, a helmet with a 105-degree peripheral vision is ideal.

When you find a motorcycle helmet you like, make sure it meets safety test standards of the US Department of Transportation. You can recognize these helmets by the DOT sticker placed on the inside or the back of the helmet.

About the author: Emily grew up on the back of her dad’s Harley and while she lives in a state that doesn’t have a helmet law, she never rides without one. She is also a contributing writer for Jafrum, a site that offers the latest riding clothes.

Ride safe.

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