How to Choose a Safe Motorcycle Helmet?

Helmets are the first line of defence for motorcycle riders. To help you choose the best one, we have assembled some essential aspects from helmet types to helmet fit and safety standards, etc.

Generally speaking though, full-face helmets provide the most extensive protection to bike riders. 

So, if you are still wondering how to select a helmet for safety, keep on reading.  

Statistics showcasing the need for helmets

The ever-increasing vehicle population and congested roads of India have contributed to the growing road accident rates every day. In 2017, more than 48,746 people died because of bike accidents where 73.8% of them were found not to be wearing a helmet. ( 1 ).

Assess helmet safety standards & ISI mark before buying

Higher speed inevitably calls for better protection and riders should also know why a certified helmet is safer than the regular ones. 

Since helmets are meant to protect your skull from injuries in unexpected events, you need to make sure that it complies with all the required quality standards. Products with ISI mark ensure:

• Optimal protection to the riders as it has been approved by the government after carrying out all the safety tests.
• Such helmets are perfect when trying to prevent blood clots, skull damage or other such damages  

Generally, these safety tests include chin strap retention qualities, penetration capabilities, and other necessary regulations.

Although these certified helmets tend to get a little costlier than the ordinary ones, opting for cheap and fragile materials can cost you even more in the long run. 

Additionally, as per a 2020 government directive, only helmets certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will be legal for two-wheeler riders in the country.

Do you think that prioritising the safety aspects of a helmet would mean compromising on its outer appearances? 

Well, that is clearly not the case here as you can easily find different brands that offer several types of helmets, with stylish and compact features.

Here is a list of different motorcycle helmets, which you can easily find in the Indian market.

Full face helmets

Full face helmet is probably the safest option out there since your entire face remains protected. These helmets are designed in a way that covers the front head and chin while also providing sufficient visor protection as a bonus.

However, they do not possess decent air ventilation, which might be a problem when riding in hot conditions.

Modular or flip-flop helmets

The structure of these helmets enables the chin cover to slide all the way up to the top, making it convenient for you. You can easily drink water or eat snacks during long drives without having to take it off.

Open face helmets

Generally, scooter and cruiser bike riders prefer this particular type because of the airy and lightweight feel. However, looking from the safety point of view, these helmets do not provide adequate protection as the rider’s face remains entirely open.

Sports and racing helmets

The different parts of a helmet include the following -

• Shell - The outermost layer, which absorbs the greatest amount of force on impact.
• Comfort liner - Soft padding, which ensures that the helmet sits perfectly on your head.
• Vents - Forward facing vents allow cool air to pass into the helmet and exhaust vents ensure that the warm air is pushed off.

Retention system, cheek pads and EPS liner are some of the other integral parts of a helmet.

Helmets can easily prevent fatalities during an accident. In fact, according to bike helmet safety statistics, the deaths of 44,666 bike riders could have been prevented in 2019, if they opted to wear a helmet. Almost 30% of all road accidents were caused directly because of the absence of helmets (2).

Are you wondering what the safest motorcycle helmet is? Well, to determine the same, you would first need to understand a few particular elements. Here is a list of things you need to look for while purchasing a helmet. 

• Is the helmet shape and size comfortable?

Comfort, size and fit remain some of the important factors to consider while choosing a helmet. Make sure it is equipped with vents so that you don’t end up feeling suffocated after a point. Similarly, comfortable padding is another necessity, especially for individuals riding for a significant period. 

Also, pay heed to the size factor and go for a snug fit to avoid feeling uncomfortable for it being too tight. 

• How secure is it?

Even though you don’t want your helmet to be too close-fitting, check if your chosen option inhibits movement and protects you in the worst conditions. Simply fasten the straps and check whether it stays intact or whether it easily comes off. 

• What kind of visor does the helmet have?

Users generally prefer the smoked and mercury tinted visors since those look more alluring. However, a clear visor is always a better choice if from the convenience prospect. And if you are ready to splurge a little, go for an anti-scratch and anti-fog visor to get the best driving experience in all weather conditions.

A full face helmet generally offers the most significant protection to riders. Thus, to ensure minimal chances of serious injury, you would do well to stick to such variants. While comfort may be limited, it will keep you safe in the event of accidents. 

Apart from the above-mentioned factors, look for aspects like proper cushioning, high-end material, and a certification mark before making the final call.   

Even though there are so many attractive options to choose from, safety remains one of the most important components while making a choice. And, if you want your adventurous bumpy rides to be safe and thrilling every time you are out with your loved ones, go and invest in DOT certified helmets for that extra protection.

DOT certification is a guarantee of superior safety since each of these undergo rigorous testing under laboratory condition. The tests involve checking each helmet on impact, severity of force applied and several other factors. Thus, to ensure the best overall protection, riders must seek the DOT certification.

Most helmets in India cost between Rs.800 and Rs.13000. However, as per a survey, most riders spend around 2-3% of a bike’s cost to purchase such a headgear. Thus, in most instances, Indian riders are ready to invest up to Rs.1000 to acquire a safe helmet. The report claims that only around 10% of bike owners are ready to spend more than this amount. (3)