Hardly anything else comes even close to the exhilarating feel of driving a motorcycle. Yet even the most avid of motorcyclists know that properly selected equipment, especially a motorcycle crash helmet, comes before anything else. To reinforce safety, many states require motorcyclists and the passengers that ride with them to wear helmets, whether they’re on streets, freeways or highways.

So before you get started with your two-wheeled adventure, take the time to chose a helmet to help ensure your motorcycle experience will be a safe one.

Fit is the foremost importance. Each person’s needs are unique. The shape and even the size of your head are important considerations. A helmet is obviously a personal thing. Ideally, each rider should have a helmet specifically fit for that person. At the very least, the helmets should have a snug fit all around – from the forehead all the way to the back of the head. A good snug fit is when you can barely put a finger anywhere around the helmet. Helmet padding tends to compress 10 to 15% from its original volume, even more so for cheap motorcycle helmets, so be aware to make allowances for that.

While getting a good fit is important, comfort is also paramount. When trying out a helmet at the store, like a Bell motorcycle helmet, see if you can try it on for more than 5 minutes. After that much time, take off the helmet and see if there are red marks on your forehead and nape. Marks usually indicate that the helmet is too tight. While it may not be an issue for 5 or even 10 minutes, wearing a helmet that tight for half an hour may cause a lot of discomfort for you.

Check to make sure the straps to secure the helmet to your head are strong. Two ring fasteners are ideal. While snap fasteners are easier to button, they tend to unsnap during an accident.

As much as possible, find a helmet that’s brightly colored like red, yellow or orange. This is so that you’re more visible on the road. It may not match your outfit, but at least people you’re safer. If there aren’t bright colors available, at least buy one that has reflective properties, such a reflective paint or has reflective tape all around the helmet.

While it is not required, having a helmet approved by the Snell Memorial Foundation ensures that the helmet design has gone through rigorous safety tests. To know whether the helmet is approved, you should check for a Snell logo sticker usually on the inside of the helmet.

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