How To Choose A Full Face Motorcycle Helmet

Although there are still some motorcyclists who only wear a helmet due to its legal obligation and, therefore, because of the fine if the traffic agents stop them without it, the helmet is an essential element for the motorcyclist’s safety, since it is the piece that will receive the main impact in the event of a crash or accident, instead of the head.

Obviously, the heat in the middle of summer bothers the helmet more, and it can also be somewhat uncomfortable to handle it, when taking it off or putting it on, especially in the case of a full-face helmet. But the choice of the integral helmet is the safest, because with the other models, both convertible and folding or without chin guard, you should know that you are risking your face for sure in case of an accident, at least, if not the possibility of having serious head injuries.

Since a full face helmet completely protects and covers the head, it is important to know how to choose a full face motorcycle helmet that is as comfortable as possible while wearing it, as well as safe and durable.

What do you need to choose a full face motorcycle helmet?

• A motorcycle
• A well-stocked branch store
• A professional and competent seller

Instructions for choosing a full-face motorcycle helmet

1. Approved by the EU. Your full-face helmet must bear the homologation label according to the European regulation E-9-ECE R22-05. If it were approved in another European country other than Spain, the number 9 will change to another corresponding to the country. The homologation means that the helmet has gone through impact and resistance tests, by hitting it with two anvils, one flat and one wedge. The helmet is also exposed to extreme temperatures of 20 degrees below zero and 50º of heat, as well as other very tough tests. The visor also receives attacks such as subjecting it to abrasive and puncture materials that demonstrate its resistance to all types of impacts. If the helmet is not approved, as is the case with those made in China, you should not buy them.
2. Always new. Despite the need or temptation to save, you should buy your motorcycle helmet new and never second-hand, no matter how much they assure you that it is intact. Even if it does not have any dents, if it has received an impact, this may have affected the internal layers of protection and would not save your life in the event of an accident. For the same reason, if you have an accident or blow, you should change it for a new one.
3. That it does not weigh more than 1400 grams, the weight of the helmet should not exceed that grammage, because the heavier the helmet, the more rotational energy is produced that can increase brain and intracranial damage in an accident. Likewise, the greater the weight, the less comfort, which will be very noticeable on journeys of a certain distance, and fatigue, in addition to being annoying, causes more stress in driving, increasing the risk of making mistakes.
4. Heat. The motorcycle helmet should have vents that allow the greatest cooling of the head inside the helmet, with sufficient width, while the noise that enters is as low as possible, something that is improved with a good aerodynamic design. It is important that they are easily manipulated while driving, if necessary, so that attention to driving is not reduced.
5. Fiber or polycarbonate? The material from which the helmet is made is another variable to consider when purchasing. There are one or more fibers: kevlar, fiberglass and carbon, and polycarbonate. The fiberglass ones are better in the relationship between shock absorption, weight and resistance, and they are almost twice as expensive as the polycarbonate ones. According to the Organization of Consumers and Users of Spain, both types of material are equally safe according to their tests.
6. When does it expire? Yes, a helmet does expire, but only polycarbonate ones, normally after five years, depending on the environmental harshness to which it has been subjected. In any case, the fiber ones do not expire but the interior padding and the polystyrene layer deteriorate. Its good or bad condition is what should tell you if it is time to change your helmet.
7. Size. The size is not only a matter of comfort, but also, but above all it is for safety. It is estimated that in 20% of serious accidents the helmet is thrown off due to incorrect size or attachment. It should be loose, comfortable, but it shouldn’t move when you turn your head. Try it on with your glasses on if you wear them. It has to adjust to the cheeks and fit the face but without disturbing. As it will give way over time, it is not bad that when it is new it squeezes something.

Tips for choosing a full face motorcycle helmet

• The inner fabric should be hypoallergenic and removable for better cleaning.
• The helmet should have a good anti-fog system, such as the “pin-lock”. You can also take the mist retardant treatment, and the nose pads will help.
• If you want a very secure helmet, it is better that the closure is double ring, even if it makes it somewhat difficult to put it on or take it off with gloves on. Micrometric closures are much more insecure.