Ensuring the Perfect Helmet Fit: Your Guide to Motorcycle Helmet Sizing

Introduction

Every rider knows that a helmet is a non-negotiable part of their motorcycle gear, but not everyone knows how to find the perfect fit. The right helmet can be the difference between a safe ride and a risky one. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to ensure your motorcycle helmet fits just right, enhancing both safety and comfort.
a motorcycle rider trying on different helmets being assisted by a sales specialist

Image: A rider trying on different helmet sizes in a store.

Understanding the Basics of Helmet Sizing

Helmet sizing is more than just picking a small, medium, or large. It involves understanding your head size and shape and choosing a helmet that matches these dimensions. Different helmet types, from full-face to modular, also play a significant role in sizing.
Infographic showing different helmet types (full-face, modular, etc.)
Image: Infographic showing different helmet types (full-face, modular, etc.).

Measuring Your Head: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Getting the Right Tools: Use a tailor's measuring tape or a flexible string.
  2. Measuring Technique: Wrap the tape around your head, just above the eyebrows and ears, where the head is widest.
  3. Recording the Measurement: Note down the measurement in centimeters or inches, as most helmet sizes are denoted this way.

Diagram showing head measurement process for motorcycle helmets

 

Image: Diagram showing head measurement process.

Identifying Your Head Shape

Your head shape is as crucial as the size. Generally, there are three head shapes:
  • Long Oval: Longer front-to-back than side-to-side. (see diagram)
  • Intermediate Oval: Slightly longer front-to-back than side-to-side, the most common shape.
  • Round Oval: Nearly identical side-to-side and front-to-back measurements.
head shape diagram via arai helmets
image: head shape diagram via Arai Helmets

Choosing the Right Helmet Type

Your choice of helmet should reflect the type of riding you do:

arai contour-x full face motorcycle helmet in black

shoei neotec II modular motorcycle helmet in black

HJC IS-5 Open Face motorcycle helmet in black gloss

bell rogue cruise half helmet in matte black

Understanding Helmet Safety Standards

Look for helmets that meet safety standards like DOT, Snell, or ECE. These standards ensure that the helmet has passed rigorous safety testing. For a comprehensive breakdown of these standards, check out our blog post, "The Ultimate Guide to Understading DOT, SNELL, and ECE Motorcycle Helmet Ratings"

Trying on Helmets: The Fit Test

Your helmet should fit snugly all around with just enough room when pushing forward from the rear of the helmet to just fit the tip of your finger up to the first joint between your helmet liner and forehead. If you get a hotspot or pressure point along the top of your head or around your temples, you should look for a different head shape so you can keep the right size and not have to sacrifice fit for comfort or safety. Your cheeks should feel like they have good pressure on them, and it should not be easy to fit a finger between your cheek and the cheek pad.
Photo of a rider performing fit tests with different helmets
Image: Photo of a rider performing fit tests with different helmets.
A good tip to remember: your helmet will break in between 15-20% after a few good rides as it starts to fit your head. When you are first trying on a brand-new helmet, a tight fit is essential. If you get a helmet that's too loose, it will be even more loose once it breaks in, which doesn't offer the same protection as one with the correct fit. 


Common Mistakes to Avoid in Helmet Sizing

Avoid choosing a helmet based solely on style or price. Comfort and safety should be your top priorities. Also, don't assume that all brands have the same sizing; always refer to the specific brand's helmet size chart. For example, Shoei only offers an intermediate oval head shape with their models so it's important to understand these nuances when you're shopping.

Conclusion

Sizing a motorcycle helmet correctly is a critical step toward safe riding. By measuring your head, understanding your head shape, and knowing what to look for in a helmet, you can make an informed decision that ensures both safety and comfort on your rides.

We encourage you to take the time to find your perfect helmet fit. Visit us at Sprocketz and consult with our experts so you'll know you can ride with confidence. And remember, a well-fitted helmet is an investment in your safety on the road.
An image showing a satisfied rider with a correctly fitted helmet.
Image: An image showing a satisfied rider with a correctly fitted helmet.