Drew Redding
June 7, 2023
When it comes to motorcycle riding, wearing a helmet is not just a recommendation; it is a crucial part of a motorcyclist’s gear that can literally save lives. The variety of motorcycle helmets available reflects the diverse styles of riding and the varying levels of safety they provide. Understanding the different types of helmets can help you make an informed choice that best suits your riding style.
1. Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
The full-face motorcycle helmet stands as the most recognized and widely respected helmet type, often regarded as the gold standard for rider protection. This helmet encases the entire head, offering comprehensive coverage that includes the sides, back, and chin. One of the standout features of full-face helmets is the integrated visor or face shield, typically made of durable plastic or perspex. This shield can be effortlessly raised or lowered, providing both warmth in colder climates and protection against debris, insects, and wind during rides.
These helmets are equipped with strategically placed air vents that facilitate airflow, helping to regulate temperature and minimize visor fogging caused by the rider’s breath. Due to their superior protection, many safety authorities around the world mandate full-face helmets as the only legal option for urban and suburban motorcycle riding.
2. Modular Motorcycle Helmet
Also known as flip-up or flip-face helmets, modular helmets offer a unique blend of features found in both full-face and open-face helmets. They can be used as a full-face helmet while delivering the same protective benefits, or they can be adjusted to resemble an open-face helmet. The front chin section of the helmet is hinged, allowing the rider to lift it to expose their face.
Typically, the visor needs to be retracted before lifting the chin piece, which is designed to slide into a designated cavity within the helmet. Some models even allow complete removal of the chin piece for an open-face experience. While modular helmets provide enhanced convenience—such as the ability to eat, drink, or communicate without removing the helmet—they may not offer the same level of safety as full-face helmets due to the potential vulnerability of the hinge mechanism.
3. Open Face Motorcycle Helmet
Commonly referred to as 3/4 helmets, open-face helmets provide a level of head protection similar to full-face helmets but without the chin protection. They cover the top, back, and sides of the head, leaving the face and chin exposed. This design is popular among scooter riders, cruisers, and touring motorcyclists who typically ride at more moderate speeds.
Riders often pair open-face helmets with goggles or wrap-around sunglasses to shield their eyes from debris, wind, and rain. While some open-face models come with a visor for additional protection, these helmets generally do not offer the same safety level as full-face or modular helmets, making them less suitable for high-speed riding.
4. The Half Helmet
The half helmet, also known by various colloquial names such as TT or Shorty, offers limited head protection. Its design covers only the upper portion of the head, starting above the eyebrows and extending horizontally around the back, leaving the neck, lower back of the head, and face unprotected. This type of helmet became popular during early motorcycle racing events, such as the Isle of Man TT, but has since fallen out of favor as motorcycle speeds have increased.
While some half helmets feature a leather earpiece and an under-chin strap for added retention, riders typically rely on goggles or sunglasses for eye protection. Due to their inadequate safety features, several jurisdictions have banned the use of half helmets altogether.
5. Motocross Helmet
Designed specifically for off-road riding, the motocross helmet is also known as an off-road or MX helmet. Though they resemble full-face helmets, motocross helmets are more angular and often lack an integrated visor or face shield. They feature a wide opening between the chin piece and the helmet’s upper section, allowing for the use of specialized motocross goggles, which may have tear-away shields for improved visibility.
Many motocross helmets also include a peak at the forehead, which serves to block sunlight and protect the rider’s face from debris kicked up by other riders. Motocross helmets provide a level of safety comparable to full-face helmets, making them a suitable choice for adventurous off-road riders.
6. Dual Sport Motorcycle Helmet
Dual sport motorcycle helmets, often referred to as Adventure helmets, serve as versatile options for riders who enjoy both off-road and on-road experiences. These helmets combine features from both full-face and motocross designs, featuring a removable or retractable peak, a face shield, and a more angular chin piece for enhanced protection.
With a wider face opening, dual sport helmets allow for better peripheral vision and the option to wear motocross goggles. Safety authorities generally classify these helmets as full-face helmets, recognizing their ability to provide solid head protection for diverse riding conditions.
7. Novelty Motorcycle Helmet
Novelty helmets represent the least secure option among motorcycle helmets, as they are typically not manufactured to any recognized safety standards. Often referred to as brain buckets or beanies, these helmets are designed more for style than safety, providing minimal protection against impacts. They are constructed from lightweight materials that may only guard against abrasions.
While these helmets may be visually appealing, their lack of safety features limits their usage to areas where helmet laws are not enforced. It is crucial for riders to prioritize safety over aesthetics when choosing their headgear.
8. Smart Motorcycle Helmets
Smart helmets are the latest innovation in motorcycle safety gear, integrating modern technology with traditional helmet design. These helmets are often full-face or dual sport types, engineered to reduce wind noise and enhance communication. Equipped with Bluetooth or wireless connectivity, smart helmets allow riders to make phone calls and stream music directly into the helmet.
Some advanced models come with heads-up displays on the face shield, offering customizable features and even rear-view camera functionality. While smart helmets tend to be more expensive and harder to find, their growing popularity is making them increasingly accessible to riders seeking both safety and connectivity on the road.
Conclusion
Across most regions, wearing a motorcycle helmet is a legal requirement for all riders. The enforcement of helmet laws has undeniably saved countless lives, making motorcycling a safer mode of transport and recreation. When selecting a helmet, consider the type of riding you engage in and choose one that offers the best protection for your needs.