A motorcycle helmet will keep you safe motorcycling when you need it most. In the event of a crash, it's the only thing that will protect your head. Not to mention, just by having a helmet on, that little bug that hits your shield which would have otherwise hit your face, might help you avoid an accident altogether.
However, that doesn't mean you should just up and purchase the safest product on the market, as there are other concerns when buying a helmet - like special features tailored to specific riding styles, style, and comfort.
Special Features
[/mageProductLink] [mageProductLink sku="387-6910" title="Speed and Strength SS2200 Motorcycle Helmet"]Speed and Strength SS2200 Motorcycle Helmet[/mageProductLink]The type of riding you will be doing will influence your helmet choice. If you are heading off-road you might want a dual sport helmet or an open-face helmet that will fit your goggles. However, if you are heading out on a long road trip with your touring bike, you might want a full-face helmet with a flip-up visor - or perhaps a modular helmet with a flip-up or removable chin bar.
Do you want a peak, or visor, to aid in blocking the sun's glare? How about an internal sun shade? What type of faceshield are you looking for? Many helmets come with multiple face shield tints available, making it even easier to customize your helmet to fit exactly with how you ride.
[/mageProductLink] [mageProductLink sku="339-8700" title="Nolan N86 Rapid Full Face Bluetooth Helmet"]Nolan N86 Rapid Full Face Bluetooth Helmet[/mageProductLink]In addition to the multitude of options for how your helmet is constructed, you'll want to consider what technological features it incorporates. Whether you are looking for the latest in technology with a complete HUD built into the helmet, or just a convenient way to add Bluetooth compatibility to your helmet, there is an option for you.
Whatever your needs, there are plenty of products on the market.
Style
[/mageProductLink] [mageProductLink sku="039-7416-05" title="Vega XTV Scroll Half Helmet"]Vega XTV Scroll Half Helmet[/mageProductLink]While all the bells and whistles of your chosen motorcycle helmet are important, another factor to consider is the overall look of the helmet. Are you looking for a clean, classic look with solid colors and a minimalist design? How about the look of a retro sport bike racer? Do the special edition replica helmets strike your fancy? Is there a graphics theme you prefer (such as skulls and barbed wire, Monster Energy or Rockstar, or military stars and stripes), or would you rather have an abstract design? Whatever it is that fires up your imagination and inspires you on your ride, you can rest assured that there is a helmet for you.
[/mageProductLink] [mageProductLink sku="335-9527" title="MSR Racing Xpedition Hi-Viz Dual Sport Helmet"]MSR Racing Xpedition Hi-Viz Dual Sport Helmet[/mageProductLink]When you're looking for the graphics that suit you best, don't forget that there are hi-visibility helmets, specifically designed to aid in night time riding.
In addition to the colorways and graphic design of the helmet to consider, remember that the very type of helmet also complements the style. Some people prefer the openness of a half helmet to feel the rush of road full upon their face, while others would rather go for the protection of a full-face helmet.
Comfort
[/mageProductLink] [mageProductLink sku="410-437921-3360" title="Schuberth C3 Pro Euphoria Women's Modular Helmet"]Schuberth C3 Pro Euphoria Women's Modular Helmet[/mageProductLink]There are several things to consider when assessing a helmet for comfort. The most obvious would be to ensure that it fits properly. A helmet should be tight to the head without being constrictive. You will want it to sit squarely without being able to move at all.
There are a number of things to consider as far as sizing is concerned, depending on the type of helmet you choose. For instance, a riders nose shouldn't touch the shield at all on a full-face helmet. In addition, there should be no gaps, and cheek pads should be tight without feeling uncomfortable.
[/mageProductLink] [mageProductLink sku="023-0618-442" title="O'Neal Racing 5 Series Wingman Youth Helmet"]O'Neal Racing 5 Series Wingman Youth Helmet[/mageProductLink]There are helmets made for several different head shapes on the market, so you'll likely find the best fit by trying on several brands. Some brands make women's helmets, designed to fit best on the female form, while others offer a wide selection of sizes, so that even the smallest youth is covered.
If you have found the perfect helmet, but you don't like exactly how it fits to your face, do not despair. Chances are there is a way to customize the helmet to fit better. Many manufacturers design their helmets with removable comfort liners and cheek pads. Usually this is to aid in keeping the helmet clean by allowing them to be washed, but many helmets also allow these items to be exchanged for another size - thus ensuring the helmet fits YOU.