It is important to use the right size of motorcycle helmet to ensure a comfortable ride and maximum safety in the event of a collision.
This article gives you an overview of how to find the right size helmet for you.
1. Measuring the shape and circumference of the head
Shape of the head
First, you need to figure out the shape of your head. In general, people have one of three head shapes: elongated oval, medium oval and round oval. Selle välja selgitamiseks palu sõbral teha oma peast pealtvaates foto.
The most common head type is the medium oval or oblong oval, which most helmet manufacturers use to make their helmets.
Measuring the circumference of the head
Take a soft tape measure and measure the circumference of the head at the widest point (about 2 cm above the eyebrows and ears, see picture). Check the result of the corresponding helmet in the size chart and find out which size it corresponds to. We recommend asking a friend to take the head circumference, so you get a more accurate result.
If you need a helmet for children, choose a manufacturer that offers special motorcycle helmets for children.
Different brands = different sizes
No two different helmet manufacturers ever produce exactly the same size of helmet, but most manufacturers use the same logic. In addition, sizes of the same type of motorcycle helmet may vary even within the same brand. It is therefore important to choose a helmet according to the size chart.
2. Trying on a helmet
If you know your head shape type and circumference, try on a helmet!
Order your helmet from a parcel machine or come and try it on site.
When trying on the helmet, use the disposable ultra-thin hygiene mask that comes with the helmet. When putting on the helmet, take hold of the helmet straps and pull them out to the sides of the helmet while sliding the helmet over your head. PS! Helmets are not meant to be worn comfortably, if the helmet goes on too easily it can fly off your head just as easily in an accident.
With the helmet on, you may also need to adjust your ears by moving the helmet up and down.
Helmet too big
The helmet liner and EPS reduce shock in the event of an accident. If the motorcycle helmet is too wide, a collision will create a gap between the head and the lining, increasing the risk of a head impact.
You can check that the helmet is not too big by attaching the helmet strap and shaking your head side to side and up and down. If the helmet moves and wobbles on your head, it’s probably too big.
Helmet too small
The motorcycle helmet should not pinch uncomfortably on the head.
If the helmet fits too tightly on the head, there may not be enough pressure in other places (e.g. the cheeks) or the helmet may be too tight elsewhere. If you feel pressure on your forehead, the helmet may be too round for your head. Pressure on the sides indicates that the helmet is too oval.
These problems can cause inconvenience and become a nuisance when driving.
The right size helmet
Put on a helmet and see how comfortable it is. The helmet should fit around the head, but should not cause undue discomfort. The cheek pads of a classic motorcycle helmet should press slightly against the cheeks. Hold the chin strap and move your head from side to side and up and down. If the helmet doesn’t move from the cheeks and feels comfortable, it’s probably the right size. Wear the helmet on your head for 15-30 minutes to make sure there is no discomfort.
To improve the fit, some brands offer different sized cheek pads to adjust the size of the helmet.
Note that wearing a helmet is never as comfortable as wearing a winter hat. Nevertheless, you should feel as comfortable as possible when wearing a helmet. Depending on the manufacturer, helmets can take 3-20 hours to adapt to the rider’s head and get into shape.