Get the Right Motorcycle Helmet For You

When it comes to motorcycle helmets, plenty of riders get all wrapped around the axle discussing helmet laws. We’re smart enough not to wade into that mess, but our opinion is that no matter what the law says, you gotta protect your coconut, and that means wearing a helmet.

FULL-FACE

- Offers the most protection

- Quietest design

- Integrated faceshield for eye protection

- Trade-offs: Expensive, limited sensory input

- Heavier design can mean more neck fatigue

HYBRID

- Combines the best of full-face and off-road helmets; also called a “dual-sport” helmet

- Intended for on- and off-road use

- Wider peripheral vision and space to wear optional goggles

- Longer chin bar and added visor, like off-road helmets

- Trade-offs: Potential noise or visor wind-resistance issues

OPEN FACE

- Also known as 3/4 (three-quarter) helmet

- Acceptable combination of head protection and freedom

- Plus: Puts you in touch with the elements

- Minus: Puts you in touch with the elements (you can add a face shield if you wish)

OFF-ROAD OR MOTOCROSS

- Open face port lets your wear goggles to protect your eyes from dust

- Chin bar for mouth/jaw protection

- Long visor for sun protection and to deflect branches

- Trade-offs: Visor catches wind at higher speeds

MODULAR

- Also known as a “flip-up” helmet

- Chin bar pivots to allow open-face configuration

- Safety of moveable chin bar not widely studied

- Some hybrids are fully functional as both full- and open-face

- Popular for motorcycle police and commuters, for ease of conversation and snacking

HALF HELMET

- Cool, light, inexpensive

- Minimal legal coverage—check your local laws

- Trade-offs: Low safety ratings; many counterfeit helmets on the market offer unacceptably low protection