When it comes to fitting a helmet, there’s so much more to it than simply purchasing one that is the same size as your hat or guessing if you are a small, medium, or large. Of course, your hat size is a great place to start.
Take a measuring tape and measure your head at the largest circumference. This is typically just above your eyebrows and eyes in the front and around the back. Make sure that you take several measurements to make sure that you get the largest number. If your head size falls in between, you should go with the larger size.
Most of the time, helmets are sold in small, medium, large, or extra-large. Therefore, you might need to reach out to the manufacturer to find out about specific numbers for the helmet-sizing chart. Plus, keep in mind that helmet sizes will vary from one manufacturer to the next and from one style helmet to another.
Best way to test helmet fit
The most ideal way to find out if a helmet is going to fit you or not is to try it on. To try on a helmet, hold it by the chin straps. The front of the helmet should be facing down and the bottom (where your head goes) should be facing you. While balancing the helmet with your fingertips, place your thumbs inside the straps. Using the chin straps, slightly spread the sides apart and slip it over your head.
If the helmet fits properly, it will be snug and may even seem like it’s a little tight until it’s in the proper position. Make sure that it is sitting square on your head—not tilted back like a hat. Keep in mind if you get a helmet that is too big, it could move around on your head when you’re riding, it can allow wind to get in and be noisy, and it could fly off if you are in a crash.
Once you have the helmet on, take the time to check a few other things before you fasten the straps. First of all, the pads that go on your cheeks should be touching your cheeks, but not causing any discomfort. You should have no gaps between the brow pads of the helmet and your temples. If you are looking at a helmet that happens to also have a neck roll, it should not push the helmet off and away from your neck.
If you are trying on a full-face Motorcycle Helmetz, try pressing on the chin bar. Your nose and/or chin should not come into contact with the face shield. If this does happen, it’s also going to happen when you’re riding down the highway, making for a very uncomfortable ride.
While you are wearing the helmet with the straps still fastened securely, try moving it up and down, as well as side to side with your hands. You will feel your skin moving along with the helmet if it fits properly. You should feel the helmet very lightly and evenly pressing all over your head. Keep in mind, with consistent use, your helmet is going to loosen up because the liner will be compressed over time. You should choose a helmet that is as tight as you can possibly stand it to start with.
At this time, with your head facing forward and the chin strap still fastened, try to roll it to the front and off your head. If it fits right, you will not be able to pull it off with the straps fastened. If you are able to pull it right off, then it’s too big, and you need to go with a smaller size.
Now, take the helmet off. Do you notice that your head is feeling sore in any spots? Do you see any red spots left behind on your forehead? You’ll find that when you ride for an extended period of time, pressure points will cause discomfort and you may end up with a headache. Therefore, it’s critical to make sure that the helmet you are considering isn’t causing any problems for you. If you decide that it will cause problems, you may want to go up a size or look at a different brand or style. Heads are not all exactly the same size and shape, that is why there are so many different options when it comes to helmets.
If you’re not sure about whether the helmet is going to work for you or not, spend some time walking around the store with it on. If you find that it’s still uncomfortable, then that’s probably not the best option for you. Regardless of the price you pay, a helmet is a critical investment for your safety. You want to take the time to carefully choose the one that is right for you. When in doubt, you can always consult the icon helmet sizing chart.