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Have you ever had the following experience?
- I want to buy a motorcycle helmet, but which type is right for me?
- What are the points to consider when choosing a helmet?
- What should I do to enjoy a safe and comfortable motorcycle life?
But don’t worry.
By reading this article,
- The role and importance of motorcycle helmets
Helmets are not just equipment.
They are the most important item for protecting your life.
You will understand how to protect your head from accidents and ensure safety on the road! - Types and features of helmets
There are several types of helmets, such as full-face, jet, and off-road.
By knowing the features and advantages of each, you will know which one is right for you! - How to choose
In addition to size and fit, you should also consider breathability, visibility, weight, and comfort.
You will know how to choose one that suits your riding style! - Safety standards
Helmets have domestic and international safety standards.
By choosing a product that meets these standards, such as DOT, ECE, and JIS, you will know that you can use it with confidence!
This article is packed with useful information that you can’t get anywhere else.
Please take the time to read it carefully to live a safe and enjoyable motorcycle life.
[Japanese translation page]
[Language Learning]
Introduction
Helmets are one of the most important safety equipment for motorcyclists.
Choosing the right helmet is essential for protecting your head and riding safely.
In particular, in the event of an accident, a helmet can help protect the rider’s life.
I will explain in detail the points and precautions you should take when choosing a helmet.
I will give you specific advice on what types are available, what criteria you should use to choose one, and how easy they are to use.
I will also share some of the experiences that I and my wife, the administrators of this blog, have had in choosing a helmet, and offer advice from a realistic perspective.
Head Protection
When riding a motorcycle, the part of the rider’s body that is most at risk in the event of an accident is the head.
In the event of an accident, there is a high possibility of a violent collision with the ground or another object, so it is very important to protect the head well.
This is where the role of a helmet comes in.
Helmets are designed to absorb impact and reduce damage to the head, preventing concussions and fatal injuries.
In fact, wearing a suitable helmet can significantly prevent serious injuries and fatal outcomes in the event of an accident.
Impact cushioning in the event of a fall
Falling off a motorcycle poses a great danger to riders.
In particular, when hitting the ground or an obstacle, the head can receive a large impact.
The inside of the helmet is equipped with shock-absorbing cushioning material to soften the impact with the ground and minimize damage to the head.
This helps prevent serious damage to the skull and brain.
Protection from flying objects
When riding, unexpected insects, pebbles, gravel, etc. may fly at high speed.
If they hit your face or eyes, it can cause serious injury or poor visibility.
Helmet visors and shields provide excellent protection for the face from these flying objects, helping riders to continue riding safely.
The design covers the entire face while keeping your vision clear, providing comfort even during long rides.
Protection from wind and rain
When riding a motorcycle, you are often directly exposed to wind and rain, and your head and face may be strongly affected, especially during long-distance touring.
Helmets prevent the rider’s head from getting cold from the wind and wet from the rain, and provide comfortable protection.
The shield or visor of the helmet also plays an important role in preventing your eyes from drying out due to direct wind and poor visibility due to rain.
This helps you maintain concentration while riding and supports safe driving.
The wind pressure is particularly strong on highways, and the helmet reduces wind resistance, making it less tiring to ride for long periods of time.
Improved visibility
Helmets are equipped with visors and shields to ensure the rider’s visibility and support safe riding.
These devices not only protect the eyes from sunlight, rain, and wind, but also protect the view from obstacles such as flying pebbles and insects.
In addition, many helmets are equipped with shields that are treated with anti-fog coating, so the view is kept clear even on rainy days and in cold seasons, allowing you to ride comfortably.
In this way, helmets not only protect the head, but also play many roles in improving the comfort and safety of riding, making them an essential item for riders.
Types and features of motorcycle helmets
There are many different types of motorcycle helmets to suit different uses and riding styles.
Each helmet has its own unique features and is designed to improve the rider’s safety and comfort.
Here we will explain the most common types and their features.
Full-Face Helmet
Full-face helmets, as the name suggests, have a structure that covers the entire face from the head to the chin.
This ensures the highest level of safety for riders.
In particular, in the event of an accident, it protects not only the head but also important parts such as the chin, cheeks, and nose to prevent direct impacts to the face.
In addition, it has the advantage of being less affected by weather and riding conditions because it completely protects the face from wind, rain, and flying objects.
- Maximum safety
Because it covers the entire head and face, it has extremely high protection against impacts and minimizes the risk of accidents. - Environmental protection
It allows you to ride comfortably even when riding on the highway or in rainy or windy environments, greatly reducing external stress. - Suitable for long-distance riding
It is especially suitable for long-distance touring and sports riding on the highway, and is designed to make the rider less likely to feel fatigued.
Full-face helmets are very popular with riders who value safety because they are most suitable for situations where protection of not only the head but also the entire face is required.
Jet helmets (open face)
Jet helmets (open face) do not cover the entire face compared to full-face helmets, so they have a wide field of vision and are well ventilated even in hot seasons such as summer.
They are especially popular among riders who ride short distances in urban areas and want to feel the breeze while riding.
However, because the chin and part of the face are exposed, the protection is narrower than that of a full-face helmet, and they may be slightly less safe.
This good ventilation is useful when riding in areas with many traffic lights in the city or in traffic jams.
In addition, when riding at low speeds, there is no need to worry about the field of vision being narrowed like with a full-face helmet, so you can check the surrounding situation clearly and ride safely.
On the other hand, when considering long-distance riding or use on the highway, jet helmets are more likely to cause problems such as wind resistance and insect intrusion.
In addition, jet helmets are available in a wide variety of styles and designs, and are said to be particularly compatible with classic motorcycles and scooters, so they are often chosen by riders who value a stylish appearance.
System helmets (Modular helmets)
System helmets (Modular helmets) are multifunctional helmets that combine the benefits of both full-face helmets and jet helmets.
This type has a structure that allows the chin to be raised and lowered, so you can use it like a full-face helmet when you want to protect your entire face, and open the chin like a jet helmet when you want to increase ventilation or want to free your face during a break.
When riding on the highway on long-distance touring, you can ensure safety as a full-face helmet, and when waiting at service areas or traffic lights, you can open the chin and relax.
It can also be used depending on the situation when commuting, and is characterized by its high comfort.
In addition, system helmets combine safety and convenience, making them attractive for long-term riding and various weather conditions.
It combines the protective performance of a full-face helmet with the ventilation of a jet helmet, making it a very practical choice for many riders.
However, due to the opening and closing function of the chin, it may be slightly heavier than a normal full-face helmet, so you should be careful about this when using it for long periods of time.
Off-Road Helmet
Off-road helmets are helmets specialized for riding on unpaved roads and rough terrain.
The biggest feature is the large visor and excellent ventilation, designed to be used comfortably even in environments where sand, mud, dust, etc. are flying around.
In particular, it is common to use it with goggles, which allows you to ensure visibility while protecting your entire face.
In off-road competitions such as motocross and enduro, mud and pebbles fly around during intense riding, so the long protruding chin part of the helmet and goggles play an important role.
The chin part is designed to be longer than a full-face helmet, preventing mud from hitting the face directly and making it easier to breathe.
In addition, since off-road riding often involves a lot of body movement, good ventilation is very important for riders.
Off-road helmets are particularly excellent in this respect, and even in hot environments, the head is less likely to heat up, allowing you to ride comfortably.
In addition, the visor also plays a role in protecting your eyes from the sun and flying foreign objects, and is designed to make it easy to maintain visibility even during long rides.
As such, off-road helmets combine safety and comfort, and can withstand even the harshest conditions, making them an essential piece of equipment for off-road riders.
Half-Cap Helmet
Half-cap helmets are helmets that cover only the top and back of the head, leaving the face and chin completely exposed.
As a result, they offer a very wide field of vision and good ventilation, making them comfortable, especially in the hot summer months and when riding short distances.
However, because they do not provide face or chin protection, they are less safe than full-face helmets and are at higher risk of falling or colliding, so it is important to be aware of this.
When traveling short distances around town on a scooter or small motorcycle, these helmets are lightweight and cool, making them attractive to riders looking for comfort.
However, on highways and long-distance touring, the limited range of protection may increase safety risks.
Types like half-cap helmets have their advantages and disadvantages, and which helmet to choose will depend largely on the riding environment and the preferences of each individual rider.
For example, they are comfortable for those who want to ride around town casually while feeling the breeze, but for riders who prioritize safety, full-face helmets or system helmets that offer more protection would be more suitable.
In the end, it is important to choose your helmet carefully according to your own usage environment.
Important points when choosing a helmet
There are several important points to consider when choosing a helmet.
First, how to choose the size.
If the helmet does not fit your head properly, safety will be greatly compromised.
It is important to measure your head circumference and choose the appropriate size.
When trying on the helmet, make sure that it is not too tight or too loose when you put it on, and that your head does not shake when you move.
Next, it is important to check the weight.
If the helmet is too heavy, it may put strain on your neck and shoulders during long rides, and you may get tired quickly.
Lightweight helmets are comfortable, especially when touring or riding long distances.
However, you should be careful not to sacrifice safety by placing too much importance on lightness.
Ensuring visibility is also an important factor.
The helmet’s shield and design must not obstruct the rider’s field of vision.
Especially with full-face helmets, the field of vision may be narrowed, so it is a good idea to choose a model with a wide field of vision.
Anti-fog functions and UV-cut shields also help ensure visibility.
Ventilation is also an important point to consider.
If the number and positioning of the ventilation holes is appropriate, the helmet will not become stuffy even when used for long periods of time, and can be used comfortably.
A helmet with good ventilation is especially important in hot seasons or in environments where you sweat a lot.
Finally, how to check safety. Always choose a helmet that meets safety standards.
For example, in Japan there are safety standards such as the “SG Mark” and “JIS Standards.”
Whether or not a helmet meets these standards is directly related to its reliability.
Taking these points into consideration and choosing a helmet that suits your purpose and preferences will lead to safe and comfortable riding.
How to Choose a Size
When choosing a helmet size, it is very important to choose one that fits the shape and size of your head.
If the helmet is not the right size, it may not provide sufficient protection in the event of a collision and may reduce safety.
First, start by accurately measuring your head circumference.
Use a tape measure to measure your head circumference by going around the area slightly above your forehead and above your ears.
Based on this size, refer to the size chart provided by each helmet manufacturer.
It is important to always check the size chart of the brand you plan to purchase, as size standards may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Even helmets labeled as the same “medium size” may have slightly different sizes depending on the brand.
As a result, while a medium size from one manufacturer fits perfectly, a medium size from another manufacturer may be too tight or loose.
In addition, there are differences in head shapes, and some people find that a round helmet fits well, while others find that an oval helmet fits well.
For this reason, it is important to actually try on the helmet to make sure that it is not too tight or too loose and fits your head properly.
When trying on the helmet, also move your head gently back and forth and side to side while wearing it to check that it does not move.
A good fit means your helmet won’t slip off. Choosing the right size not only provides comfort, but also protection, which is essential for a safe ride.
Checking the weight
When choosing a helmet, checking the weight is also very important.
Especially for long-term riding or long-distance touring, the weight of the helmet has a significant impact on the strain on the neck and shoulders.
Therefore, it is ideal to choose a helmet that is as light as possible.
A lightweight helmet is important for maintaining comfort while riding.
It may not be a big concern for short trips, but for long-term touring or continuous driving on the highway, a heavy helmet can easily cause fatigue in the neck and shoulders.
This is especially noticeable when riding at high speeds, where you need to maintain the same posture for a long time.
However, a lightweight helmet does not mean that safety is sacrificed.
Today’s helmets use advanced materials and technologies, and while being lightweight, they still maintain high safety performance.
For example, materials such as carbon fiber and fiberglass are often used to achieve both lightness and strength.
This makes it possible to reduce the strain on the rider while meeting safety standards.
The functionality of the helmet must also be taken into consideration.
Many elements are incorporated into helmets, such as ventilation, shielding function, and sound insulation, which may affect the weight.
It’s important to try them on and see if they provide the right balance between lightness and functionality.
Ensuring visibility
Ensuring visibility is a very important factor for riding safely.
When choosing a helmet, it is recommended to make sure that the shield or visor does not restrict the rider’s field of vision.
In particular, with full-face helmets, the field of vision can be narrowed, so it is ideal to choose a design with a wide field of vision.
For example, if the shield is too small or the visor is in an unnatural position, it can be inconvenient to check the surrounding situation.
A wide field of vision is directly linked to the prevention of accidents, especially in congested urban areas and highways.
Try on the helmet and make sure that you can clearly see the left and right sides of the front.
In addition, helmets with anti-fog functions are especially useful in rainy and cold weather.
If the shield fogs up while riding on a cold day, visibility will suddenly deteriorate and it will be very dangerous.
This risk can be reduced by choosing a shield with anti-fog treatment or a shield with a dual lens structure.
It is useful to have a sunshade function (sun visor) on days when the sun is strong.
Some helmets have an integrated sun visor built into the inside of the shield, which can protect your eyes from strong sunlight and reflected light.
This feature makes riding more comfortable on sunny days and in low evening sun, and helps ensure good visibility.
Choosing a helmet with these features can improve not only your comfort but also your safety.
Checking breathability
When choosing a helmet, checking the breathability is also an important point.
The inside of the helmet is equipped with a ventilation system such as vents and air intakes to keep the rider comfortable.
This allows outside air to enter the helmet and releases the heat and moisture trapped inside.
A helmet with good breathability is very useful, especially in the summer or on long rides.
When touring long distances on a hot day, the inside of the helmet may feel stuffy and uncomfortable.
However, a helmet with good breathability ensures a good flow of air, preventing your head from getting stuffy and keeping you comfortable.
The number and position of air intakes also differ depending on the helmet.
Air intakes at the front and sides of the head efficiently take in air, and the exhaust ports located at the rear release heat and moisture to the outside, regulating the temperature inside the helmet.
This ventilation system works well, especially when riding at high speeds, and will reduce the rider’s fatigue.
In addition, when choosing a helmet with good breathability, it is important to pay attention to the material of the interior.
If the interior is made of a highly moisture-absorbing and quick-drying material, it will absorb sweat quickly and dry easily, making it more comfortable to use.
In this way, choosing a helmet that does not get stuffy easily will significantly improve your comfort while riding, and you will feel less tired, especially on long rides.
Checking safety standards
When choosing a helmet, it is very important to check the safety standards.
Be sure to check whether the helmet meets official safety standards such as the JIS standard (Japanese Industrial Standard) and the SNELL standard (Snell Foundation Standard).
Helmets that meet these standards have been proven through tests to have durability and protection against impacts, and are expected to protect the head in the event of an accident.
The JIS standard is a safety standard that is widely adopted in Japan, and shock absorption and penetration resistance are rigorously tested.
On the other hand, the SNELL standard is a standard established in the United States, and is characterized by even stricter tests.
Whichever standard you choose, a helmet that meets these standards will be a safe choice.
In addition, the ECE standard (Economic Commission for Europe standard) is also widely used in Europe.
This standard also guarantees high safety and is trusted around the world.
Riders who plan to go on tours or ride overseas should also pay attention to regional safety standards.
Helmets generally have labels or stickers on the inside or outside indicating that they comply with safety standards.
Be sure to check these labels before purchasing to see if the helmet meets the safety standards.
In addition, because each standard uses different testing methods, a helmet that complies with multiple standards may have even higher protection performance.
For example, a helmet that meets both the JIS standard and the SNELL standard will give you more peace of mind when using it.
Choosing a helmet that meets safety standards will increase your safety while riding, and is an important point to consider when choosing a helmet that is right for you.
How to Choose a Helmet
When choosing a helmet, there are a few important points to keep in mind.
First, it is very important to choose the right size helmet.
If the helmet does not fit properly, not only will your safety be compromised, but it will also be uncomfortable.
- Measuring your head circumference
Before choosing a helmet, measure the circumference of your head accurately.
Use a tape measure to measure your head circumference from the top of your forehead to the back of your head.
Based on this, check the size chart of each helmet manufacturer. - The importance of trying on
After checking the size chart, it is important to actually try on the helmet.
Put on the helmet and check that it fits your entire head.
The fit will vary depending on the shape of your head, so it is best to try it on and check that it is comfortable. - Checking the adjustment function
Many helmets have adjustment pads or straps on the inside that allow you to adjust the size.
You can use this to adjust the fit to suit your head shape. - Advantages of a lightweight helmet
When considering long-term use and comfort while riding, it is ideal to choose a lightweight helmet.
Heavy helmets are more likely to put strain on your neck and shoulders. - Try holding it
The best way to check if the helmet’s weight is appropriate is to actually hold it in your hand.
If you choose one that feels light, you won’t get tired easily even when using it for long periods of time. - Differences in materials
The weight of a helmet also varies depending on the material it is made of.
Helmets that use carbon fiber or lightweight plastic materials are relatively light yet strong.
By keeping these points in mind and choosing the helmet that’s best for you, you can ensure a safe and comfortable ride.
How to choose a size
To choose the right helmet size, you must first accurately measure the widest part of your head. It is recommended to measure using the following procedure.
- Preparing measuring tools
Prepare flexible measuring tools such as a tape measure or ruler.
A cloth tape measure is best, but if you use a ruler, you can also use a tape measure or string to measure. - Head measurement points
To measure the widest part of your head, start from the top of your eyebrows.
From there, wrap the tape measure around your ears and all the way to the top of your head.
When measuring, make sure the tape measure fits snugly around your head and there are no gaps. - Accurate measurements
Make sure the tape measure does not loosen or become too tight while measuring.
Measuring the correct size is the first step in choosing a helmet that fits you perfectly.
You can choose the appropriate size by comparing the size measured in this way with the size chart of each helmet manufacturer.
If the size measured with a tape measure is “57 cm”, it is a good idea to choose a helmet of the corresponding size, such as “M size” or “L size”, based on the size chart.
Choosing the right helmet for your head size will make your riding experience more comfortable and safer.
Checking the size chart
When choosing a helmet, it is important to check the size chart.
To check, follow the steps below.
- Checking the size chart
Each helmet manufacturer provides its own size chart.
First, visit the official website of the manufacturer you are considering purchasing from or visit the retailer’s website and check the size chart of that manufacturer. - Check your head circumference
Check your head circumference (the circumference of the widest part of your head) against the size chart.
If your head circumference is 58cm, check whether that size corresponds to “M size” or “L size”. - Pay attention to differences between manufacturers
Size charts may differ depending on the manufacturer.
Company A’s “M size” may correspond to “56-58cm”, but Company B’s “M size” may correspond to “57-59cm”.
Since the size varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, you must choose the size based on the manufacturer’s chart. - Check the size adjustment function
Even if you look at the size chart, you may not be able to find the size that fits you.
In that case, choosing a helmet that can be adjusted is one option.
Helmets that allow fine adjustments with adjustment pads or straps can make the fit more snug. - [Example]
On one manufacturer’s size chart, a “size small” is shown as “54-56cm” and a “size medium” as “57-59cm.”
If your head circumference is 58cm, you would choose a “size medium.”
However, other manufacturers may have different size ranges, so it’s important to check the size chart carefully.
In this way, by correctly understanding the size chart and choosing the right size for your head circumference, you can choose a helmet that will be more comfortable and safer.
Check the weight
When choosing a helmet, weight is also an important point.
Consider the following points when making your selection.
- Benefits of lightweight
For riders who ride for long periods of time or go on long-distance tours, a light helmet puts less strain on the neck and improves comfort.
A heavy helmet can easily cause fatigue in the neck and shoulders, so it is ideal to choose one that is as light as possible. - Check the manufacturer’s materials
The helmet’s weight is listed in the manufacturer’s product information.
Before purchasing, check the product specifications and catalog to check the weight of the helmet.
It is a good idea to choose a helmet that is lightweight yet ensures safety and functionality. - Try it on and check it
By actually trying on the helmet, you can check how it fits and how the weight feels.
By trying it on, you can actually feel the weight and stability when you put it on your head and find a helmet that suits you.
Ideally, you should wear it for a long time without feeling any strain on your head or neck. - Lightweight technology
The latest helmets are made with advanced materials and designs to reduce weight.
By using materials such as carbon fiber and Kevlar, they are made lighter while maintaining their strength. - [Example]
If one helmet is listed as weighing 1,200g and another is 1,000g, the latter is lighter.
When considering long periods of use or frequent riding, a lighter helmet will cause less fatigue.
In this way, checking the weight of your helmet and choosing a lightweight, comfortable one that suits you will ensure a safer and more comfortable ride.
Summary
This time, we have explained in detail about “motorcycle helmets”.
Let’s look back at the points here.
- The importance of helmets
Motorcycle helmets are very important equipment for ensuring the safety of riders.
Considering protection in the event of an accident, helmets should be selected carefully. - Types of helmets
There are several types of helmets.
It is important to understand the characteristics of each and choose the one that suits you.
Full face: Covers the entire face and is the safest.
Jet: The face part is open, with a wide field of vision and good ventilation.
System: Has the functions of both full face and jet, and the chin part can be opened and closed.
Off-road: Features a large visor and ventilation, and protects from mud and sand.
Half cap: Covers the top and back of the head, and the face is open. It is lightweight and has good ventilation, but is slightly less safe. - Points on how to choose
Size: Measure the widest part of your head and choose according to the manufacturer’s size chart.
Weight: A lightweight helmet reduces strain on the neck. It is also important to check the manufacturer’s information and try it on.
Visibility: Check that the shield or visor does not obstruct your vision, and check for anti-fog and sun protection features.
Breathability: Choose a helmet with vents or air intakes, and make sure it is comfortable even when used for long periods of time.
Safety standards: Check the safety standards the helmet meets, such as JIS and SNELL standards.
Choose the best helmet Try out the right motorcycle helmet for your riding style and purpose.
Choosing a helmet that combines safety and comfort is the key to making your riding life more enjoyable and secure.
