How should a good helmet fit ?

flytoolow

flytoolow

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Hi all,

Im in the market for a new helmet, possibly a Shark Evo 2 - but after looking around in various shops it seems that they sales poeople dont know how a helmet should fit ?

I currently have a Schuberth S1(?) (my first - size 61/62), nice and snug. One shop tested me with a Evo 2 (XL) and gave it a "good shake on the bonce", a little tight but not too tight and said that was OK, and in the other they asked if it was tight, and I replied "a little tight", and they advised me with a XXL (63/64 ?) which seemed a little big (roomy but not overly so...)

So which is it ?

Would really like to know the "correct" feel before I splash the dosh.

Also, What are your opinions on these new "modular/Fullface/Jet style convertable" helmets as far as safety is concerned - Ive heard some say "never touch them - always full face" and others rather like them and dont have a concern if they crash with an open face ?

Flytoolow
 
try a cock ring if you find its getting a bit soft after a while
 
firstly they should fit on your head.....



seriously, the padding will consolidate and how much depends on the make of helmet. I have a Shark evo 2 as does my better half and and both of us take a size smaller than usual with this make.:eek:
I tried the normal 59 and it felt looser than a wh*r*s knicker elastic..... no use when your flying through the air wondering which way was up!:blast

i was always told, it should be slightly tight, able to move head up and down vertically with effort but no sideways ( ie turn left or right) give in the helmet.......:rob

hope this helps

nic
 
My 2p

1. Find a helmet shape that fits your head, don't pick a brand first. Try loads of helmets. Don't believe the nonsesnse about 'an Arai (or other) shaped head' either. Most manufacturers make a variety of shapes. An Arai Chaser, for instance, is a different shape altogether from an Arai Viper. Having said that, most folk get a brand that works for them and stick to it. Shoei for me but the last one was an Arai Chaser as the XR1000 didn't work for me at all.

2. Go to a store where they know what they are talking about. Arai, AGV, Shoei and others run courses for retailers. Find someone who has done the programme. Expect to take loads of time. If they don't like it, go somewhere else.

3. Skull fit is crucial. Most people wear helmets that are on the large size. This prevents it doing what it needs to do when you crash. The gap between head and helmet allows for an instant deceleration before the helmet foam can do it's job by compressing.

You should feel the helmet liner all over your head with an equal pressure. If you can get your finger between your forehead and the helmet, it's too big.

4. With the helmet on try these tests.

Hold your head still and try to twist the helmet around it. If the helmet moves, it's too big.

Have someone press on the front of the helmet with their opened fingertips above and below the visor, to simulate what it will feel like in airflow. If it moves back and comes away from the back of your head, it's too big.

With the strap fastened, try to lift the chinbar (yes, you really do need one IMO.). If the helmet rolls back by more than half an inch, it's no good for you.

Try the same with pulling it forward by pushing the back of the helmet up. More than half an inch - no good for your head.

5. So much for too big. How do you know if it's too small? Wear it for 15 mins in the shop, preferably on a warm day. Take it off and if you have a huge sense of relief and marks on your forehead,it's too small. If it creeps forward on your forehead it's the wrong shape for the back of your head - try something else.

Remember that your head gets bigger when you're warm and smaller in the cold so bear this in mind when buying.

Most decent helmets come with removable cheek pads. Different sizes make a big difference to fit. If in doubt try a bigger/smaller one before buying.

As an example, I bought a new helmet on Saturday. Took an hour to get the fit and size right by a first class Shoei trained tech at Seastar in Norfolk. I ended up with different liner and cheekpad sizes to get it right, part of the deal with Shoei and other good manufacturers. Wore it for 15 mins twice before I was happy. Result - best fitting helmet I've ever had, and I have a head shaped like a Sontaran off Dr Who.
 
The helmet should be tight when you put it on. It should squash your cheeks when you look in the mirror. It'll ease over time and then fit perfectly. Another good test is to put it on with the strap then try and pull it off by gripping the rear of the helmet and pulling it forward.

Personally I like full face helmets only. I've had a bad crash that split the chinguard almost in two - I'm glad i didn't have an openface on that day. Flip tops are just open face helmets with chinguards attached and hence don't fill me with confidence. I did have one for a few weeks to test.
 
Good advice...Thanks !

Thanks to all who've responded. Ive now got a better idea of what to look for/feel for. Given the chance (lots of Honeydo's this weekend) I'll take another reccie on Saturday and have another look.

Cheers.

Flytoolow
 
Different helmets suit different heads.

Find one that suits your shape and that you are comfortable with.

I used to follow the "rules" but they were always tight and uncomfortable when worn for a few hours. So then i bought them loose and i've been much happier over the years.
 
How should a good helmet fit ?
Click to expand...

Till she squeals?:eek:
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I'm relly surprised no one had posted this answer before - another indication of the sad decline in UKGSer? Discuss :D
 
Nippy Normans supply Touratech, Wunderlich, Desert Fox and many other makes of accessories.
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