The Helmet How To: We Blow the Lid Off of Choosing the Right One

 

Your helmet is the most important piece of riding gear you can buy. There are about as many helmets to choose from, as there are bikes to ride. But just like choosing the right bike, there are many things to consider when buying a helmet. We sat down with Jodi, our MotorClothes manager, for some tips about choosing and caring for your motorcycle helmet.

What are the various types of helmets on the market?  

For basic protection, there’s the half helmet, which only covers your head. If you’re looking for more protection, there’s a three-quarter helmet, which covers your brainstem and your jaw line. If you want full coverage, you would go with a full-face helmet, to cover your brainstem, jaw line and your chin (popular with snowmobilers too). We also offer modular helmets, which have a flip up chin guard.

The helmet weight and thickness can vary depending on which materials you go with. The outer-shell materials range from thermoplastic, to fiberglass, and some more state-of-the-art materials. Hybrid ultra-light helmets are injected with Aramid and weigh only 1.2 pounds, and our Carbon Kevlar® helmets are made from some of the strongest and lightest manmade materials available.

How can I be sure I am buying the right helmet?

At The House, we have our helmets on display for our customers to try. We know how to fit a helmet and that every helmet is going to fit your head differently based on the manufacturer. Once you start narrowing down your choices, we help you test them for the best fit. Be sure to bring any eyeglasses or accessories along with you, so we can make sure those fit in the helmet well too.

 

Once you select your helmet, here are five key tips for maintenance and protection:  

1. Helmets mold to your head, make sure that no one else wears it and stretches is out. Once someone with a different head shape stretches it out, it’s not a custom fit to you. You may as well give it to them.

2. DO NOT carry or hang your helmet by the chinstraps. It creates undue stress where the straps are attached and can damage the lining.

3. Hand-wash your lining, especially if you have been perspiring a lot.

4. Use furniture polish like Pledge on the outside of your helmet. It helps keep bug guts from baking on to your helmet and those acids can compromise the enamel of your helmet.

5. You should replace your helmet every 3-5 years. Even if it has never been dropped or left outside, exposure to climate change will change the way the helmet fits.

When it comes to helmets, it’s worth it to spend some time making the right choice. You do multiple safety checks on your bike. Be sure to do a safety check on your helmet as well.

To make sure our customers have the best possible protection, trade in your old helmet to benefit the Greenfield Fire Department and get 20% off of your new one from The House.  Now through April 30!

What tips or questions do you have about your helmet? Leave your questions on the comments field below.