Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience, but it can also be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. One of the most important pieces of safety gear that a motorcycle rider can have is a good quality helmet. Helmets have been proven to reduce the risk of head injury in the event of a crash, and they are required by law in most countries. But with so many different types and styles of helmets available, it can be difficult to determine which one is the safest.
In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the different types of motorcycle helmets available and discuss the pros and cons of each in terms of safety.
Full-Face Helmets:
Full-face helmets are the safest type of motorcycle helmet available. They offer complete protection for the head, face, and chin, and are designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a crash.
The chin bar is an essential feature that provides protection for the lower face and jaw, which are vulnerable in an accident. Full-face helmets also provide superior aerodynamics, reducing wind noise and fatigue.
When shopping for a full-face helmet, look for one that meets safety standards set by organizations such as DOT, ECE, or SNELL.
Checkout WCL Helmet's Full Helmet Range Here
These standards ensure that the helmet has passed rigorous testing and will provide adequate protection in the event of a crash.
Pros:
- Offers complete protection for the head, face, and chin
- Designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a crash
- Chin bar provides essential protection for the lower face and jaw
- Provides superior aerodynamics, reducing wind noise and fatigue
Cons:
- Can be heavier and bulkier than other types of helmets
- Can be hot and uncomfortable in warm weather
- May restrict peripheral vision and hearing
Modular Helmets:
Modular helmets are a hybrid between a full-face helmet and an open-face helmet. They have a chin bar that can be lifted up, allowing the rider to communicate more easily or get some fresh air without removing the entire helmet.
Some models also have a visor that can be lifted independently of the chin bar. While modular helmets offer some of the benefits of both full-face and open-face helmets, they are not as safe as full-face helmets. The chin bar is not as robust as that of a full-face helmet, and it may not provide as much protection in the event of a crash.
Pros:
- Offers some of the benefits of both full-face and open-face helmets
- Chin bar can be lifted up for better communication or ventilation
- Visor can be lifted independently of the chin bar
Cons:
- Not as safe as full-face helmets
- Chin bar is not as robust and may not provide as much protection in the event of a crash
- Can be heavier and bulkier than open-face helmets
- May restrict peripheral vision and hearing when the chin bar is down
Open-Face or Half Helmets:
Open-face helmets, also known as three-quarter helmets, do not provide as much protection as full-face helmets. They cover the top and sides of the head but leave the face and chin exposed.
Some models have a visor to protect the eyes, but they do not provide protection for the lower face and jaw. WCL half motorcycle helmets are popular with cruiser riders and those who want a more retro look.
They are also lighter and more comfortable than full-face helmets, making them a good choice for short trips or hot weather.
Pros:
- Lighter and more comfortable than full-face helmets
- Popular with cruiser riders and those who want a retro look
- May be more affordable than full-face helmets
Cons:
- Do not provide as much protection as full-face helmets
- Face and chin are exposed, leaving them vulnerable in the event of a crash
- May not meet safety standards set by organizations such as DOT.
Checkout WCL's Half Helmet Range Here
Dual-Sport Helmets:
Dual-sport helmets are designed for riders who enjoy both on-road and off-road riding. They are similar in design to full-face helmets but have a larger visor and a more rugged appearance.
Dual-sport helmets are versatile and provide good protection on both the road and the trail. Dual-sport helmets typically feature a sun visor that can be flipped up or down, and a large chin bar for protection.
They may also include ventilation systems to keep the rider cool and comfortable.
Pros:
- Designed for both on-road and off-road riding
- Versatile and provide good protection on both the road and the trail
- Sun visor can be flipped up or down for better visibility
- Large chin bar provides good protection
Cons:
- Can be heavier and bulkier than other types of helmets
- May restrict peripheral vision and hearing
Full-Face Modular Helmets:
Full-face modular helmets are similar in design to modular helmets but offer more protection. They have a chin bar that can be lifted up, like a modular helmet, but when closed, they offer the same level of protection as a full-face helmet.
Full-face modular helmets are a good option for riders who want the convenience of a modular helmet but do not want to sacrifice safety.
Pros:
- Offers both the convenience of a modular helmet and the safety of a full-face helmet
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Chin bar can be lifted up for better communication or ventilation
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Provides complete protection for the head, face, and chin
Cons:
- Can be heavier and bulkier than other types of helmets
- May be more expensive than other types of helmets
Snell-Certified Helmets:
When shopping for a helmet, it's important to look for one that meets safety standards set by organizations such as DOT, ECE, or SNELL. SNELL is a non-profit organization that tests helmets to ensure they meet high safety standards.
Helmets that are SNELL certified have undergone rigorous testing and are considered to be some of the safest helmets available.
However, SNELL-certified helmets may be more expensive than other helmets that meet only DOT or ECE standards.
Pros:
- Have undergone rigorous testing and are considered to be some of the safest helmets available
- Meet high safety standards set by the SNELL organization
Cons:
May be more expensive than helmets that only meet DOT or ECE standards
In summary, the safest type of motorcycle helmet is a full-face helmet. They offer complete protection for the head, face, and chin, and are designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a crash.
However, there are other types of helmets, such as dual-sport helmets, full-face modular helmets, and SNELL-certified helmets, that also offer a high level of safety and protection. When shopping for a helmet, it's important to look for one that meets safety standards set by organizations such as DOT, ECE, or SNELL.