For those who want a lighter, more comfortable type of head protection, the half shell motorcycle helmet is ideal. This style only covers the top half of the head, down to the ears and is shaped like a bowl and secured with a chin-strap. Many also have snaps to which a face shield can secure onto. They don't offer the same protection that a full design does but are still safe. By keeping these things in mind when selecting a helmet, it will make choosing one that fits well and is well-made easier.
One of the most important things to note is if the product bears a DOT (Department of Transportation)seal of certification. The sticker representing this qualification represents passing in several categories, in particular how well it absorbs impact, amount of penetration it resists, and how well the fastening system remains stable when impacted. A certification proves the product meets these standards.
Because not everyone's head is the same size, helmets come in different sizes and are adjustable. Getting the proper fit is very important for safety. Usually sales personnel can provide some assistance in sizing. One can tell if it is the correct fit if it does not move around much upon purposefully shaking the head in all directions. If it has been sized properly, the wearer's skin will move with the helmet when it is shifted.
Tied in with the proper fit, is comfort. If it is the right fit it should also be comfortable. Comfort is important because it can make for a long and miserable ride without it and even impede the rider's safety if it becomes a distraction. Generally the half helmet is more comfortable because there is less to it, making it lighter and less likely to put a strain on the neck. If a design include more foam padding than usual too, this adds to overall comfort.
While it's true that the half shell style does not provide as full a coverage as the traditional full style does, coverage is still an area that should be noted just the same. The shell should extend down towards the ears until it covers them half-way. The EPS liner which is made of sturdy styrofoam is that much better if it covers the whole of the shell instead of just the required sections.
The retention system is of particular importance as well because it has the essential job of holding the helmet onto the rider's head. Usually this consists of a chin-strap that holds it onto the head securely. Retention means how well the head protection stays in place or is retained when under a force or trauma, a good system will hold it in place safely.
Also good to consider when looking for just the right piece of protective equipment are added comfort or convenience features. While not required for safety, they can simply add to the ease of use and enjoyment from wearing it. Amongst other qualities these things can be reflected in the cost, which too needs to be considered in the decision, but a safe and sturdy piece of equipment will not usually be inexpensive.
Lightweight and quite comfortable for the rider, the half shell motorcycle helmet is capable of providing safe protection. If one keeps in mind the points made in this guide, they should be able to select a good product that fits them accurately. Even though there is less total protection from this design, they are still considered safe and are popular with many cyclists.
One of the most important things to note is if the product bears a DOT (Department of Transportation)seal of certification. The sticker representing this qualification represents passing in several categories, in particular how well it absorbs impact, amount of penetration it resists, and how well the fastening system remains stable when impacted. A certification proves the product meets these standards.
Because not everyone's head is the same size, helmets come in different sizes and are adjustable. Getting the proper fit is very important for safety. Usually sales personnel can provide some assistance in sizing. One can tell if it is the correct fit if it does not move around much upon purposefully shaking the head in all directions. If it has been sized properly, the wearer's skin will move with the helmet when it is shifted.
Tied in with the proper fit, is comfort. If it is the right fit it should also be comfortable. Comfort is important because it can make for a long and miserable ride without it and even impede the rider's safety if it becomes a distraction. Generally the half helmet is more comfortable because there is less to it, making it lighter and less likely to put a strain on the neck. If a design include more foam padding than usual too, this adds to overall comfort.
While it's true that the half shell style does not provide as full a coverage as the traditional full style does, coverage is still an area that should be noted just the same. The shell should extend down towards the ears until it covers them half-way. The EPS liner which is made of sturdy styrofoam is that much better if it covers the whole of the shell instead of just the required sections.
The retention system is of particular importance as well because it has the essential job of holding the helmet onto the rider's head. Usually this consists of a chin-strap that holds it onto the head securely. Retention means how well the head protection stays in place or is retained when under a force or trauma, a good system will hold it in place safely.
Also good to consider when looking for just the right piece of protective equipment are added comfort or convenience features. While not required for safety, they can simply add to the ease of use and enjoyment from wearing it. Amongst other qualities these things can be reflected in the cost, which too needs to be considered in the decision, but a safe and sturdy piece of equipment will not usually be inexpensive.
Lightweight and quite comfortable for the rider, the half shell motorcycle helmet is capable of providing safe protection. If one keeps in mind the points made in this guide, they should be able to select a good product that fits them accurately. Even though there is less total protection from this design, they are still considered safe and are popular with many cyclists.
