Of all your essential safety gear, your helmet might be the most important piece of equipment. Your head is particularly vulnerable to damage as it does not heal as well as other parts of your body. You can reset a broken bone, but brain damage can be permanent, even fatal. You’ll want to make sure you’re wearing the right helmet to give you the proper protection. You’ll also want to find something that’s comfortable and stylish. Here at Wild Fire Harley-Davidson®, we’ve provided some pro-tips for picking out the best helmet for your needs and personality. Take a look, and then visit us to find out where you can pick one up. We proudly serve the areas of Villa Park and Chicago, Illinois.

Style

When we say “style,” we’re not talking about the design or cool-factor, but rather the model and the features that come with it. Not all motorcycle helmets are made equally and they generally serve different purposes. For example, if you tend to use your motorcycle during cold months, you might want to get a helmet that comes with full-face covering for protection from precipitation and extra warmth. However, if you keep your bike in storage during the winter and pull it out for the hot months, half helmets are more breathable and reduce perspiration. Motocross helmets provide more protection for riders who race or travel on rockier terrain frequently. Just make sure that whatever helmet you choose allows you to wear proper eyewear, whether that’s goggles, sunglasses, or a face shield.

Fit and Comfort

Once you pick a helmet style, you’ll want to make sure it fits correctly. Incorrectly fitted helmets can fall off or be too tight. When you’re trying on helmets, push them around to see if there’s too much wiggle room. You should also try pulling it off once it’s on, as slippage is another sign that you need a smaller size. It should be snug enough that there’s minimal movement, but it shouldn’t be actively uncomfortable or painful. That might be a sign that you’ll want to go a size larger.

To help you pick the right size, measure the circumference of your head just one inch above the eyebrow. Most helmet manufacturers use slightly different sizing systems, but they usually provide a chart that will help you narrow down the selection if you know your head measurement.

Crash Test Rating

Remember when we said not all motorcycle helmets are made equally? This also means they perform differently in crash scenarios. The most reliable helmets get certification from institutions that test their crash capabilities. The most common certification comes from the Department of Transportation (DOT). A DOT certification means that the helmet is less likely to crack or break and will absorb the impact of a crash better than those helmets that are not certified. There are certain private companies that are considered just as reliable as government certification, including Snell

Road Performance

Generally speaking, though, the best indicator of a helmet that works is the road test. Using your helmet while riding usually tells you pretty quickly if you’ve made the right choice. Headaches or chafing can mean you have the wrong size or you might find it hinders your ability to see. You might also need a new style if you have to battle perspiration. Don’t stick with a helmet if it isn’t right for you.

Your helmet is your most valuable protective gear so you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the right one for your needs and your regular riding conditions. Take some time to shop around to find exactly what you're looking for. If you need help deciding or advice on where to look, stop by Wild Fire Harley-Davidson® and talk to our experienced professionals. We welcome all riders from Villa Park and Chicago, Illinois.