A Guide to Putting on Your Motorcycle Helmet Properly

For motorcycle riders, a helmet is more than just an accessory; it’s a crucial piece of safety equipment. A properly fitted and secured helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injury in the event of an accident. However, simply owning a helmet isn’t enough. Knowing how to put it on correctly ensures it offers maximum protection. This comprehensive guide delves into the proper technique for putting on a motorcycle helmet, ensuring a snug and secure fit for every ride.

Understanding Helmet Types: Impacts Proper Donning Technique

There are two main types of motorcycle helmets: full-face and open-face (half-helmets). While both offer some level of protection, they differ in coverage and the way they are secured. Here’s a quick overview:

• Full-Face Helmets: These helmets offer the most comprehensive protection, enclosing the entire head, face, and chin. Full-face helmets typically have a visor that flips up for increased visibility when stopped or at low speeds.
• Open-Face Helmets (Half-Helmets): These helmets provide protection for the top and back of the head, but leave the face exposed. Open-face helmets are generally less expensive and lighter than full-face helmets, but offer less overall protection.

The following guide focuses on the proper technique for putting on a full-face helmet. The general steps can be adapted for open-face helmets, keeping in mind the differences in closure mechanisms.

Pre-Ride Preparations: Ensuring a Smooth Helmet Fit

Before putting on your helmet, take a moment to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process:

• Visual Inspection: Inspect your helmet for any damage or cracks, especially around the visor and shell. A compromised helmet may not offer optimal protection in a crash.
• Clean Visor: A clean visor ensures clear vision. Use a microfiber cloth and appropriate cleaning solution to remove dirt, dust, or fogging before your ride.
• Fastener Check: Ensure the helmet’s visor closure mechanism and chin strap buckle are functioning properly and free of any debris.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Putting on a Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet

Now that you’ve completed your pre-ride preparations, here’s how to properly put on your full-face helmet:

1. Unfasten the Chin Strap and Visor: Begin by fully releasing the chin strap buckle and flipping the visor up and out of the way. This creates a wider opening for easier helmet placement.
2. Open Your Mouth Slightly: Open your mouth slightly as you put on the helmet. This creates a little extra space for your jaw and facilitates smoother placement. Once the helmet is mostly on, close your mouth.
3. Position the Helmet: Hold the helmet by the chin bar and carefully place it over your head. Ensure the helmet sits level and covers your entire head comfortably, without any pressure points.
4. Secure the Chin Strap: Fasten the chin strap buckle. Most buckles use a quick-release mechanism, but double-check to ensure it’s securely fastened.
5. Adjust the Snugness: Many helmets have a fit adjustment system located on the back of the head. Tighten this system for a snug, but comfortable fit. The helmet should not move excessively when you shake your head.
6. Visor Check: Lower the visor and ensure it closes completely and forms a proper seal. A loose visor can allow wind, dust, or debris into your face.

Remember, a properly fitting helmet should feel snug but not constricting. You should be able to move your head slightly, but the helmet should not wobble excessively.

Finding the Perfect Fit: A Helmet is an Investment in Safety

A helmet is an essential investment in your safety as a motorcycle rider. Here are some additional tips to ensure you have the right helmet fit:

• Measure Your Head: Before purchasing a helmet, measure the circumference of your head to determine the appropriate size. Most helmet manufacturers provide sizing charts to help you find the correct fit.
• Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try on a helmet before purchasing it. A good fit is crucial, and reputable motorcycle shops can assist you in finding the right size and style for your head shape and needs.
• The Cheek Pad Test: With the helmet on and the visor closed, try to gently slide your cheeks back and forth. There should be some slight movement, but the helmet shouldn’t move excessively.
• The Snug Snug Test: Once the helmet is on and secured, try to pull it off by gently grasping the chin bar and twisting slightly. The helmet should resist this gentle pull and stay securely in place. If the helmet comes off easily, it’s too loose and you need a smaller size.

Safety Beyond the Helmet: Gearing Up for a Safe Ride

While a properly fitted helmet is paramount, motorcycle safety goes beyond head protection. Here are some additional safety tips to keep in mind:

• Wear Appropriate Gear: Invest in high-quality motorcycle clothing, including a jacket, pants, gloves, and boots made of abrasion-resistant materials.
• Eye Protection: A full-face helmet offers visor protection, but open-face helmet riders should wear goggles or a motorcycle-specific face shield.
• Pre-Ride Inspection: Before every ride, perform a quick inspection of your motorcycle, checking tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes, and lights.
• Ride Defensively: Always anticipate hazards on the road and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
• Motorcycle Safety Course: Consider taking a motorcycle safety course to improve your riding skills and learn safe riding practices.

By prioritizing safety through proper gear, responsible riding habits, and ongoing education, you can minimize risks and maximize enjoyment on your motorcycle adventures.

Beyond Safety: Comfort Considerations for Long Rides

While a snug fit is essential for safety, a helmet shouldn’t be so tight that it causes discomfort on long rides. Here are some tips for finding a balance between safety and comfort:

• Break-In Period: New helmets may feel slightly stiff initially. Wearing the helmet for short periods can help it conform to your head shape over time.
• Padding Considerations: Some helmets offer removable or replaceable cheek pads and headliners. These can be adjusted for a more customized fit and improved comfort.
• Ventilation Matters: Look for helmets with a ventilation system that allows airflow to reduce sweating and overheating during warm weather rides.

Don’t Compromise: Top Considerations When Buying a Motorcycle Helmet

Now that you’ve mastered the art of putting on a motorcycle helmet and grasped the importance of a proper fit, it’s time to delve into choosing the right helmet for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when making this crucial purchase:

• Helmet Type: As discussed earlier, the two main choices are full-face and open-face helmets. Full-face helmets offer maximum protection, while open-face helmets prioritize comfort and ventilation but leave the face exposed. Consider your riding style, climate, and desired level of protection when making this choice.
• Safety Certifications: Look for helmets that meet internationally recognized safety standards such as DOT (Department of Transportation) in the US or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe). These certifications indicate the helmet has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it meets specific safety criteria.
• Material: Motorcycle helmets are typically constructed from either polycarbonate or composite materials. Polycarbonate is a lightweight and affordable option, while composite materials offer a lighter weight and potentially greater impact absorption properties.
• Visor Features: Consider the visor’s functionality and features. A scratch-resistant and anti-fog visor is essential for maintaining clear vision during your rides. Some visors even offer internal sun visors for added comfort in bright conditions.
• Ventilation System: A well-designed ventilation system is crucial for comfort, especially during hot weather rides. Look for helmets with adjustable vents that allow for proper airflow to reduce sweating and overheating.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority. While cost can be a factor, it’s wise not to compromise on essential safety features.

Embrace the Ride: Responsible Motorcycling for Everyone

Motorcycling offers a unique sense of freedom and exhilaration. By prioritizing safety through proper helmet use, responsible riding practices, and ongoing education, you can ensure a lifetime of enjoyable motorcycle adventures.

Gear up properly, ride defensively, and embrace the open road!