HELMET SELECTION GUIDE

When it comes to safety on motorbikes, the helmet is the first thing that comes as a savior. Very often people get confused while buying helmets for themselves or probably looking out for a helmet selection guide. Well, let me list out some important points to keep in mind before buying any helmet.

Certification-

Most often people buy helmets with a view to avoid penalty being imposed upon them without the notion in mind that one day it can rather prove its worth by saving their life. The helmet should be capable enough to perform this duty, so certification surely needs to be checked before buying any helmet. There is a variety of certifications available in the market namely, DOT, ISI, ECE, SNELL, etc. While some of them can be costlier to buy but make sure you buy a helmet with any one of these certifications. Coming to which certification is legal in India? Only ISI certification fulfills the criteria.

\”In simple words if I say certification is nothing but a set of minimum standard which manufacturers have to comply with before making any helmets which determines the overall strength of the helmet.\”

Size of the helmet-

This is one such important point where most people are stuck. Wearing a helmet of loose fit/improper fit is equivalent to not wearing a helmet at all, as a loose fit helmet can come out of your head during a fall and can provide zero safety to the rider. The fitting of the helmet should be tight enough so that when you turn your head in any direction the helmet should not shake. At the same time, it should not be too tight to cause discomfort while wearing it for long hours. The fit should be perfect and comfortable enough. Make sure you try different sizes of the helmet before arriving at any conclusion and always fasten the helmet with the buckle even if it is fit enough.

Design-

The design of the helmet should be aerodynamic which helps in reducing wind blast at high speeds. Go for a clear visor that provides nice visibility in the daytime as well as during night journeys. Full face helmets provide better protection as compared to half-open helmets. Off-road helmets may look quite appealing but lack in the field of view so it should not be preferred for the daily commute.

Additional Features-

Air-vents given in the helmet has much more purpose than merely taking it for aesthetics only. It helps to keep inside cool and fresh. So next time before buying a helmet make sure to check this out. It should not be exceeded in number which causes numbness to creep in during monsoon season.

Removable internal cushion helps to maintain the hygiene of the helmet which should be cleaned regularly. Look out for a chin pad, space for fitting an anti-fog shield in the visor, D ring fastener if available in the helmet model.

While these are the most frequent queries encountered by people comment below your suggestions/recommendations.

Below is the link to some of the popular helmets available online on Amazon for your reference.

Please note that the link shared is an affiliate link of an amazon associate which means that I will earn from a qualifying purchase if you tend to make it.

Signing Off:-

Md Afzal Ansari

Ride safe, ride long!