How To Measure For A Motorcycle Helmet

Importance of a Proper Helmet Fit

Before delving into the measuring process, understanding the significance of a properly fitting helmet is essential. A well-fitted helmet sits snugly on your head without causing discomfort or pressure points. It should not move excessively or feel loose, as this could compromise its effectiveness in the event of a crash.

Follow these steps to accurately measure your head for a motorcycle helmet:

Step 1: Measure your head

Use a soft measuring tape or a rope to measure the circumference of your head about one inch above the eyebrows, around the widest part at the back of your head, and around the forehead. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. It should feel comfortably secure around your head without being overly constricting. Record the measurement in both inches and centimeters.

Tips for Accurate Measurement

• Measure Multiple Times: Repeated measurements ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Use a Mirror: If you're measuring alone, use a mirror to check that the tape is positioned correctly around your head.
• Ask for Assistance: If possible, have a friend or family member assist you to ensure the tape is straight and positioned accurately.

Step 2: Determine your head shape

The shape of your head plays a crucial role in selecting a properly fitting motorcycle helmet. All helmet manufacturers design their lids to fit a specific head shape. These often range across three primary designations - long oval, intermediate oval, and round oval. Here’s how to determine your head shape:

• Long Oval: Shaped for a head that is longer front-to-back (from forehead to the back of the skull) than it is side-to-side (ear to ear).
• Intermediate Oval: Shaped for a head that is slightly longer front-to-back than it is side-to-side. Most motorcycle helmets will fall into this category as it is the most common head shape; if a helmet does not state its shape, this is usually it.
• Round Oval: Shaped for a head that has almost identical front-to-back and side-to-side measurements.

Once you know your head shape, it is easier to filter the enormous selection of available motorcycle helmets down to a smaller, more appropriate list of those that will fit your head.

Step 3: Find your size

Now that you have your head measurement and shape, it’s time to find your size. Compare your measurement with the sizing chart of the helmet you are interested in and find your size. Keep in mind that different brands may have different sizing charts, so be sure to check the chart for the specific helmet you are interested in.

Step 4: Try on the helmet

Once you have your size, it’s time to try on the helmet. Check for snugness, comfort, and movement. The cheekpads should be fairly tight (but not uncomfortably tight) on your cheeks at first because they will break-in over time. Wear the helmet for a while at home to see if there are any hot spots or pressure points that might bother you. This is also why it’s a good idea to try on helmets in person, if possible, instead of buying them blindly online. Store employees should be able to assist you in making sure the helmet is the right fit for you.

Step 5: Exchange the helmet if it doesn’t fit

If you’re not happy with the fit of your helmet, don’t worry. Some online retailers offer a fit guarantee, which allows you to exchange the helmet for a different size or model if it doesn’t fit you well as long as all of the tags and stickers are in place. Do note, while there are exceptions as mentioned above, many retailers will not take a helmet back after you purchase it. It’s too difficult to determine whether or not the helmet has been compromised in any way.

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