How to fit a helmet

How to fit a helmet

Are you looking to buy your first helmet or a new one but you're unsure what to look for? We've written this handy guide on how a helmet should fit. A well fitted helmet is essential for comfort and safety!

Every helmet brand has a different shell shape, and most brands have different models which again, fit differently. Be sure to try on a large range of helmets, usually at least three to get a good gauge of what works for you!

 To put the helmet on, grab the straps and pull them toward the outside of the helmet, this allows you to get a good grip on the helmet and make the opening wider for your head. Once the helmet is on your head, you want to fasten the strap. This will either be a D-ring closure or a ratchet style quick fastener. The strap should be tight enough that you can only just squeeze two fingers between your chin and the strap.

Things to look out for! 

  • Pressure Points - The helmet should feel snug, not tight. You also want to ensure there are no points where there is excess pressure being applied to your head from the helmet. If a particular area feels like it is pressing excessively or doesn't feel right, you should consider another helmet choice.

  • Side-to-Side Test - With the helmet on and fastened under your chin, grab the helmet and hold it in place while you try to turn your head side to side. If the lining moves with your head, its a good fit!

  • Up-and-Down Test - Same as the previous test but in an up and down motion. The nature of the chinstrap will allow a little more movement, but the helmet shouldn't be able to come down past the ridge of your eyebrow!

  • Cheek Pads - The cheek pads should push firmly into your cheeks, almost like they're trying to make you pout! There should be just a tiny bit of pressure here and that's because it needs to fit snug and the pads are designed to mould to the shape of your face as time goes on . This ensures the helmet will maintain a better fit for a longer period of time

 

If all of these points are followed, you should have a helmet that is the right fit for you and will provide the required level of safety in an emergency situation. The only other thing we recommend is to go and look in a mirror... A) To see how cool you look in your new lid and B) to make sure the helmet is positioned correctly and your eyes sit clearly in the visor opening.

As we mentioned earlier, every helmet brand and even brands own models fit differently, but here is a rough size chart of helmet sizes. Always try a helmet on before you buy. If it's online, try and find a high street retailer who sells them just to double check your size!

 

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