9 ESSENTIAL POINTS TO HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT HELMET :
1) WEIGHT:
If you ride in competitions, the helmet must be lightweight, i.e. made of fiber rather than polycarbonate. A lightweight helmet will prevent your neck from feeling stiff at the end of the day (for endurance use, for example). Whether the helmet you're wearing weighs 1,000 or 1,300 grams, the difference in fatigue won't be significant. A lightweight helmet is a plus, but not essential.
With a polycarbonate helmet, the shell does not deform in the event of impact: it's the internal cap that absorbs the kinetic energy.
In the case of a fiber helmet (composite or carbon), the cap "works" on impact and absorbs part of the shock itself.
2) RESISTANCE :
The inside of the helmet must be able to absorb impact thanks to a fairly thick foam. In some helmets, the foam can be unclipped, which is an advantage. The shell, made of Kevlar or fiberglass, offers sufficient resistance.
3) VENTILATION:
Ventilation prevents discomfort or excessive heat when you're competing. Depending on the model, this ventilation can be guaranteed by aerated hypoallergenic fabric, front vents or Silvercool technology.
4) SIZE:
The helmet must fit the shape of your head and exert even pressure over the entire skull. Press down on the top of the helmet; if it stays in place and doesn't go below your eyebrows, it's the right size.
It goes without saying that the choice of size should take into account your morphology and gender.
If you're hesitating between two sizes, it's best to choose a helmet in a smaller size, as the inner foams will compress.
To find out which size you need, measure the circumference of your head 2.5 cm above the eyebrows, and try it on to make sure it doesn't go below the eyebrows.
Measure the circumference of your head by placing the tape measure about 1.5cm above your eyebrows. This will help you choose the right size for you.
ADULT SIZE US 2XS XS S M L XL XXL
HEAD SIZE (in cm) 51-52 53-54 55-56 57-58 59-60 xml-ph-0034@deepl.
CHILD SIZE US S M L
HEAD SIZE (in cm) 47-48 49-50 51-52
5) FASTENING SYSTEM:
The Double D system is the best and only approved system.
6) MANDATORY STANDARDS:
Motorcycle helmets must meet strict safety standards to protect riders' heads in the event of an accident. Safety standards vary from country to country, but here are some of the most common:
European ECE standard: this standard is used in the European Union and many other countries. ECE helmets must pass impact and penetration tests, as well as chinstrap and ultraviolet resistance tests.
American DOT standard: this standard is used in the USA. DOT helmets must pass impact and penetration tests similar to ECE helmets, as well as tests for chinstrap resistance, rolling resistance and outer shell retention.
British Standard BS: this standard is used in the UK. BS helmets must pass impact and penetration tests similar to ECE helmets, as well as tests for chinstrap resistance, ultraviolet radiation and noise transmission.
It is important to note that safety standards alone do not guarantee that a helmet will offer sufficient protection in the event of an accident. It's also important to choose a helmet that suits the shape and size of your head, and to replace it regularly (generally every 3 to 5 years) to guarantee optimum protection.
7) HOMOLOGATION :
In competition, a helmet is only valid for 5 years from the date it leaves the factory. You need to find out about current standards and read the code on the chinstrap. Damaged helmets are systematically rejected at technical inspection during off-road events.
ECE 2206 is an international standard governing motorcycle helmets. It sets minimum performance and safety requirements for motorcycle helmets used on the road. The standard covers aspects such as impact resistance, side impact resistance, puncture resistance, temperature resistance, UV resistance, water resistance, visibility and lightness.
To comply with the ECE 2206 standard, a motorcycle helmet must meet a number of rigorous criteria and pass strict tests. This ensures that motorcycle helmets bearing the ECE 2206 mark are safe and of high quality. As a motorcycle rider, it's important to choose an ECE 2206-compliant helmet for your own safety.
8) MASK COMPATIBILITY:
Not all helmets fit all masks, so it's a good idea to check that the face opening is large enough. For eyeglass wearers, some models feature indented foams to let eyeglass temples pass through.
Take a look at our helmet catalog and discover the different types of helmets:
- CROSS full-face helmets for adults
- CROSS children's full-face helmets
- QUAD / ENDURO full-face helmets
- JET helmets
9) EASY HELMET CARE :
If the helmet's foams can be removed, it will of course be easier to maintain, since you can remove the inside of the helmet and wash it separately to remove dirt and unpleasant odors. Note that some models are more complicated to disassemble than others.
See the full range of all helmet brands
